DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, TWO DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (AUGUST 20)

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

Gorge Creek Trail in Riding Mountain National Park boasts a gorgeous forested area with many wildflowers and fantastic views reminiscent of hiking in a tropical rainforest - well, it would if not for glimpses of the agricultural fields beyond! This is the Manitoba Escarpment, aka the Western Manitoba Uplands, and is in fact one of the defining landscapes of the province. There are lots of ups and downs with some steep inclines to navigate, but the views along the way make this challenging return trip well worth the effort. NOTE: We will hike this trail rain or shine, unless deemed unsafe or trail conditions do not permit.

Event leader: Jessica Burtnick with Reggie the Siberian husky (click link for bio).

There will be a dog accompanying this hike. If you don’t have a dog or puppy friend of your own, this is a great opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of an animal companion! If you are uncomfortable around or allergic to dogs, we highly recommend you check out one of our other upcoming hikes as this hike may not be the right fit for you.

Arrival Time: 10:00 AM. The time arranged allows for you to have time to attend to personal needs such as organizing your gear and for the leader to share information with the group. We will begin the hike no later than 10:30 AM.

Location: We will meet at the Gorge Creek Trailhead (Bottomside) parking lot, nearest the historic East Gate in Riding Mountain National Park.

A National Parks Pass is required. Annual passes may be purchased online; daily passes may be purchased in person in Riding Mountain National Park at the North or South Gates, or in Wasagaming from the Friends of Riding Mountain National Park. Please note, passes are NOT available for purchase from the historic East Gate.

Overall Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 4/5.

Duration/Distance: 11.3 km out and back, this trail takes about 4 hours to complete including breaks.
Experience: This event is open to participants with a high level of physical fitness and endurance who have an intermediate to advanced level of hiking experience. You must have the ability to walk with the group at a moderate steady pace for the duration of the activity and come to the activity with appropriate outerwear and gear.  
Terrain: The terrain includes forested and overgrown areas with narrow paths, steep inclines, and lots of ups and downs including steps. Elevation gain is roughly 360 m. The trail is composed in areas of dirt, mud which is slippery when wet, flat rocks, stairs and multiple stream crossings; proper hiking footwear is required.
Pace: Moderate with some breaks (3.5-4 kph).

Please leave dogs at home.

Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid email address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking email prior to an event.

In light of the global pandemic, we are cautiously proceeding, allowing a small number of participants at each event. We will need your cooperation in only signing up for events you can truly commit to attending. If you miss out on registering please get yourself registered on the waitlist. Please see our policy and safety practices here.

This event allows cancellation no less than 5 days before start of event. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our No Show Policy.