Location: Spruce Woods Provincial Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.5km
Ecosystem types: Sandhill prairie, sand dunes, groundwater springs
This hike is made up of a number of short loops that meander through Manitoba's largest sandhill/open dune community. Called "Manitoba's Desert" by some (by definition, it is not a true desert!), the trail guides you along the massive dunes that were deposited at an ancient river delta of glacial Lake Agassiz. A number of rare, sand-loving plants and animals can be found along the trail, including the Hognose Snake, Prairie Skink and Spinystar cactus.
An off-shoot of the trail leads to the Devil's Punchbowl, a small lake fed by a groundwater spring with brilliant colours and a wonderful view.
More information: Parks and Protected Spaces Trail Guide
Trail description and photos submitted by Derrick Enns. Trail map submitted by Rebekah Neufeld.
Spruce covered sandhills - Photo by Derrick Enns
Directions to trailhead