Regarding Covid-19: Please review our full Covid-19 policy and safety practices here.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 5 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (MAY 11)

THIS IS A CUSTOM PRIVATE HIKE EVENT THAT IS AVAILABILE TO RIVER CITY FORD STAFF ONLY. IT REQUIRES A REGISTRATION CODE TO REGISTER.

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

The Spirit Sands trail passes through varied landscapes, beautiful viewpoints, and unique ecosystems including grassland prairies, forest, parkland and sand dunes. The sand dunes create a unique environment to explore and are known as Manitoba's desert.

The trail crosses many rolling sand dunes and flat sections of sand. Along the trail we will reach the Devil's Punch Bowl - a must-see! There is a viewpoint overlooking this crater-shaped small lake formed by an underground stream from the Assiniboine River with vibrant green-blue coloured water.

We will hike this trail rain or shine, unless conditions deem it unsafe. Depending on the weather, we may wish to start the trail earlier than the planned 10:00 time frame. The sand dunes around midday reach peak temperatures and are approximately 10 degrees hotter than the forecasted temperatures. It is mandatory that participants bring at least 2 litres of water as there are no reliable water sources and it is not uncommon to run out of water on this trail.

Event leader: Ashley Moore. Click for more information

Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM. We will begin the hike no later than 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 leaders to share information with the group.

Location: Spirit Sands & Devils Punch Bowl Trail at Spruce Woods Provincial Park. Drivers are required to have a valid Manitoba Parks pass is required and can be purchased online.

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the ancestral lands of the Ininiw, Anishinaabe, and Dakota Nations, and the homeland of the Metis Nation. Our organization, Backcountry Women, is based on Treaty No. 1 Territory, and we appreciate that this event takes place on Treaty No 2. Territory.

Overall Average Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 3/5.
This rating is subject to change based on prevailing conditions at the time of the activity, including but not limited to weather.

Duration/Distance: Approximately 10 km (roughly 4 - 4.5 hours, with breaks & lunch break included). 
Experience: This event is open to participants with an average level of fitness who preferably have some hiking experience. You must have the ability to walk with the group at a moderate pace for the duration of the activity and handle some steep hills and uneven terrain. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns regarding this activity or your abilities.
Terrain: Rolling hills, sand, forest. The sandy terrain creates a physical challenge as it can be difficult to get traction, especially when going uphill.
Pace: Moderate with a break for a lunch and additional stops for water as needed. 
What To Bring: Participants are responsible for coming to the activity with appropriate outerwear. Please bring snacks, plenty of water (at least 2 litres) and a suitable lunch. A detailed suggested gear list will be provided to you upon registration.

Please leave dogs at home.

Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event leader regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mail prior to an event. Be sure to register for this event using an email address you can access easily so you can receive updates with important information.

Registering for this event secures you a spot in this event and is not transferable to another event. If you are no longer able to attend, please contact Ashley.