NOTICE: The new trail is not officially open yet!
After so much planning, construction and fundraising we know many of you have been eager to get on the new trail. With the wildfires this spring we have not been able to meet our target opening for the 2025 summer season. There are a few more items that need to be completed before we can officially open the trail:
Final touches on construction (drainage, berms)
Traditional Anishinnabe naming process
Completed directional signage
Sign off from Manitoba Parks
Should you decide to venture out and explore the trail anyway, please take the following into consideration:
THE TRAIL IS LONG WITH LOTS OF CLIMBING - it’s a one way distance of 16km from the Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes to where the trail joins up with the Trans Canada Trails near Toniata. That’s a long way! Plus there are significant climbs and descents all along the way. The average hiking time (one way) is 5-6 hours, the average biking time (one way) is 2-3 hours.
TRAIL CONSTRUCTION IS ONGOING - be aware there are still operators on the trail, do not pass operators without making eye contact first.
THIS IS A BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL - while designed for intermediate biking and hiking, the trail is deep in the bush with limited access points for exit. Be prepared to do the whole 16km or turn back part way.
BE PREPARED WITH ESSENTIALS - ensure you have a day pack with 2-3 litres of water, protein snacks and sun/bug protection. Wear appropriate footwear and bring a cell phone for communication. Reception is pretty good at most points along the trail.
CALL 9-1-1 FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
Trail Connection Project Around the East End of Falcon Lake
The South Whiteshell Trail Association (SWTA), in conjunction with Manitoba Parks and First Nations, is thrilled to unveil an exciting project: The creation of a new trail winding through the wilderness and diverse landscapes at the east end of Falcon Lake.
Archeologists conduct shovel testing along the proposed trail route.
After 6 years of proposals, mapping, consultations, archeological surveys, and construction planning, we are are in the final phases of completing this amazing trail project. Discover the unique terrain, ecosystems and vistas on a non-motorized trail at the east end of Falcon Lake. The intermediate hiking and biking trail will entice adventurers to experience new diverse landscapes. The trail will be set away from the shoreline and cottage development to give the user a feel for wilderness exploration.
At over 16 km, with a wide range of scenery and more physically challenging terrain, this trail will be an exhilarating new experience for users. This will be an ideal stepping stone for those seeking a backcountry experience while remaining close to amenities. Our aim is to strike the perfect balance between sustainable design and minimal environmental impact, both during and after construction.
Phase 1 - upgrade existing trail (Complete)
During the fall of 2023, significant construction upgrades were made to 6 km of existing hiking and cross-country ski trails on both the north and south sections of the proposed route. This $179,000 investment was fully paid for through generous grants from Trans-Canada Trails (TCT), Trails Manitoba, and private donations from SWTA supporters.
PHASE 2 - NEW TRAIL CONSTRUCTION (complete)
Construction of 10 kilometres of new trail have been roughed in over the summer and fall of 2024. An experienced trail builder with low impact construction techniques conducted the work. SWTA has received large matching grants from TCT and Trails Manitoba and over $115,000 in private donations for the second phase of this project.
PHASE 3 - FINISHING, NAMING AND HONOURING (on going)
Phase three will encompass trail finishing work (sloping, culverts, gravel touch-ups, boardwalks), the installation of directional signage and the process of giving the trail a traditional name in Anishinaabemowin, the language of the Anishinaabe people. This phase will take place during the spring/summer/fall of 2025. We are very proud to announce that we have successfully obtained grants from both Trails Manitoba and Trans Canada Trail to support this phase of the project totalling $65,000. Fundraising from private donations is also ongoing!
We Would Like Your Support
Help us raise funds to complete a unique section of trail that will link the North and South shore trails! The completion of a loop around Falcon Lake will become a beacon for trail enthusiasts and a legacy for the South Whiteshell. We are looking for a pledge of your financial support at this time. SWTA has charitable status and will provide tax deductible receipts. Please see the below recognition levels that we will display at the trailhead kiosk.
Giving levels and Recognition
Trail Champion – Contributions of $20,000+
This is your opportunity to become a community leader in making the new trail at the east end of Falcon Lake a reality.
A donation of $20,000 or more will provide the greatest visibility for you or your organization with your name or company logo engraved on the donor plaque which will be located in a prominent location along the new trail.
You will receive an invitation to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at our Grand Opening.
A private helicopter tour (2 people) of the new trail will be awarded to the top donor. Tour is generously donated by local cottager Murray Auld.
You will receive a personal wooden plaque to commemorate your gift.
Your name or organization name and logo will appear on news releases, and you will receive recognition on the SWTA website and Facebook/Instagram posts.
Trail Blazer – Contributions of at least $10,000
Join our team and become a Trail Blazer in building the new trail.
A donation of $10,000 or more will provide great visibility for you or your organization with your name or company name engraved on the donor plaque which will be located in a prominent location along the new trail.
You will receive an invitation to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at our Grand Opening.
You will receive a personal wooden plaque to commemorate your gift.
Your name or organization name and logo will receive recognition on the SWTA website and Facebook/Instagram posts.
Trail Builder – Contributions of at least $5,000
Become a Trail Builder and discover how you can make a lasting impact towards the new trail at the east end of Falcon lake.
A donation of $5,000 or more will be recognized on the donor plaque which will be located in a prominent location along the new trail.
You will receive an invitation to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at our Grand Opening.
Your name or organization name and logo will receive recognition on the SWTA website and Facebook/Instagram posts.
Trail Advocate – Contributions of at least $1,000
As a Trail Advocate you will receive permanent recognition on the donor plaque which will be located in a prominent location along the new trail.
Trail Supporter - Contributions of at least $500
As a Trail Supporter you will receive permanent recognition on the donor plaque (in smaller font size than an Advocate) which will be located in a prominent location along the new trail.
Big thank you to everyone who attended the Trivia Night Fundraiser!
A huge thank you to the attendees, volunteers, prize donors and sponsors of the July 5 Trivia Night Fundraising Event. We had a fabulous night testing our brains and raising funds for the “Connect the Shores” trail project, the West Hawk Lake Courts Revitalization Project with the Falcon Sports Club AND the South East Whiteshell Fire Department . Total funds raised at the event for the three causes was over $5100!
A special thank you goes out to local cottager Donna Meyer for not only spearheading the event but also designing and conducting the entire trivia game! You’re commitment to raising up our community is admirable and so appreciated! Thank you Donna!
Our work is not over! We still need funds to complete Phase 3 of the “Connect the Shores” project which includes signage, trail finishing, parking lots, donor kiosks, trails heads and traditional naming. Click below on the “Donate Now!” button to see where our fundraising campaign is currently at.
Winter Holiday FUNdraiser
A huge thank you to the attendees, volunteers, prize donors and sponsors of our Dec. 28th Winter Holiday FUNdraiser event. We had a fabulous night celebrating and raising both awareness and funds for the “Connect the Shores” trail project. Total funds raised at the event were $9,226.89!!!!
Our work is not over! We still need funds to complete Phase 3 of the project which includes signage, trail finishing, parking lots, donor kiosks, trails heads and traditional naming. Click above on the “Donate Now!” button to see where our fundraising campaign is currently at.