A Walk in the Heart of the Prairies

The walk begins at the Alloway Visitor Centre, where your guide, Mary, welcomes you with a smile before leading the group onto the trail. Very quickly, the city disappears behind you. The wind makes the grass dance, birds call to each other from tree to tree and the prairie stretches as far as the eye can see.

As you walk, Mary will share anecdotes and useful nature tips. Did you know that moss always grows on the north side of trees? Or that wild rose hips can be used to flavour homemade herbal tea? There, you don't just look around: you learn to see, to listen and to experience the prairie in a different way.

And then suddenly, a murmur runs through your group. Look out, bison in sight!

The Herd and its Stories

Around a bend in the trail, a massive silhouette stands out against the golden grass. Then another.

There they are. At FortWhyte Alive, some 30 bison live peacefully in their vast prairie. Depending on the season, they come close to the trail or blend into the tall grass in the background, playing a real game of hide-and-seek with visitors! If the herd is being shy, don't worry: binoculars are available for you to get a better look.

Mary explains that these giants have about seven times more hair than a cow. Their coat is so thick that it can protect them from the Manitoba cold, even when it's -30°C. There, bison experience winter as they always have: outdoors, calm and majestic.

In the spring, you can sometimes spot young bison calves: they look like little balls of red fur trotting behind their mothers. A little further on, a billboard allows visitors to compare their own height to that of a male bison, a female bison and a calf. A fun activity for young and old alike, that also makes you realize how small you are next to them.

An Experience for Every Season

At FortWhyte Alive, every season offers its own magic. From spring to fall, the guided bison walk, whether in French or English, takes you to the heart of the prairie. And then, when snow covers the landscape, the tour turns into a snowshoe walk: same setting, different atmosphere.

To plan your outing, check the online calendar at fortwhyte.org where you can find the schedule for tours in French and English.

Whether you come with family, friends or on your own, this experience in the heart of the Manitoba prairies, available both in French and English, is a true escape into nature. A simple, authentic and rejuvenating moment just a stone's throw from Winnipeg, where Manitoba reveals all its beauty.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

• FortWhyte Alive – 1961 McCreary Drive, Winnipeg
• Duration: approx. 1 hour walk (2 km)
• Language: activity offered in French or English
• The walk is included with general admission (free for members)
• Find out more on their website.