This historic stretch of the Assiniboine Valley features an old pioneer trail that winds along the edge of the valley, which was once used by steamboat crews to transport and unload supplies to the surrounding communities. You'll find historic grave sites and what remains of a homestead where a family of ten was raised in the early 1900s, offering a glimpse into the formative years of our community.
Catch your breath at the top of the Assiniboine Valley, where you can watch as the river rolls gently through the hills, its path shaping oxbow lakes and leaving visible traces on the ever-shifting valley floor.
To find the Silver Bend Trail, drive two kilometres north of Miniota on Highway 83, turn west onto Road 79N and cross the overhead bridge. For Google directions, please click here.
Trails start near the parking lot - keep an eye out for the signs posted. You will find signs for direction, mileage, and points of interest as you hike.
Silver Bend Trail Map & Brochure
AllTrails (ensure that you use a GPS app when hiking)
Trails:
- Top Trail 3.7 km
- Bottom Trail 4.2 km
- Complete Trail 7.9 km
- Little Loop 371 m
- Peter's Ridge 2.8 km
- River View 271 m
- Fire Guard Road 341 m
RULES AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Please follow the signs and stay on the trail
- It is recommended to have some type of noise maker to use in case of unwanted wildlife
- No fires are permitted on the trail
- Take out what you take in
- There is a top route and bottom route, both of which connect to make the full route 5 miles
- You also have the option of choosing one of the smaller routes - Peter's Ridge or the Little Loop - which offer a shorter experience without missing out on the scenery
- Poison ivy has been reported on the trail - please be familiar with what the plant looks like and wear appropriate clothing
- THE TRAIL IS DUE TO UNDER GO MOWING AND BASIC MAINTENANCE AS SOON AS CONDITIONS ALLOW
- WE ASK THAT YOU HIKE WITH A FRIEND FAMILIAR TO THE TRAIL UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Please be on the lookout for the occasional brown and black bear and take necessary precautions:
- Make noise (don't surprise them). Bears usually don't want anything to do with you - but surprising one can lead to an unwelcome encounter. Talk, clap, or call out occasionally, especially in dense brush or where there's running water.
- Learn how to use bear spray, and take it with you. It's one of the most effective bear deterrents - only if it's accessible and not buried in your backpack. Quick access is important!
- Watch for the signs and stay alert. Keep an eye out for tracks, scat, diggings, or overturned logs. If you notice fresh signs, it's a good cue to slow down, make extra noise, or even turn back if things feel too active.
Enjoy your hike and have fun!
Contact Birtle Miniota CDC:
Phone: 204-842-3602
Email: cdc@myprairieview.ca
