The skating and walking trail on the Assiniboine River at The Forks is now open for your winter enjoyment.
An ice resurfacer broke the ceremonial ribbon along what’s now known as the Red River Mutual Trail on Friday morning. The trail stretches roughly 1 km west towards the Osborne Bridge.
Paul Jordan, chief operating officer of The Forks, says the trail is weather dependent and crews are constantly testing the ice to ensure it’s safe for the public.
“We really want everyone to know what parts of the trail are open and which aren’t,” Jordan said. “Because it’s such a moving entity, there may be open water in parts and we want to keep everyone safe.”
Further legs of the trail will extend in the coming weeks as the weather permits. Conditions will be updated daily at TheForks.com/rivertrail.
Officials expect the trail to be a popular destination this weekend as Winnipeg’s temperature hovers in the minus single digits after what seemed like an endless cold snap.
Over the next six weeks, The Forks is also offering programming on the trail, including the Iron Man Curling Bonspiel, a special weekend to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Festival du Voyageur, two winter cycling competitions as well as a winter version of Bike to Work day. Visitors can also skate on two large hockey rinks located in the Historic Port.
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