The transformation of an unused piece of land into a vibrant trail has reconnected a community to its past.

In recent years, the historic area alongside Cloutier Drive in St. Norbert was often overgrown and strewn with garbage, until residents rallied to convert it into a safe place to walk and hike. After four years of safety studies, negotiations with two levels of government and fundraising, the Sentier Cloutier Trail system was created in 2005, with support from The Winnipeg Foundation

 

According to a recent ecological assessment by City of Winnipeg Naturalist Services, the four-season trail includes significant natural heritage areas. The path – part of the Trans Canada Trail and St. Norbert Heritage Trail System – also winds through four distinct natural habitats: river bottom forest, oak and aspen forest, tall grass prairie and wetlands.

 

The project gives residents the opportunity to not only tread on historic ground but has paved the way for important partnerships with funders, historical and tourism organizations and other related groups in St. Norbert, St. Boniface, Fort Richmond and Fort Garry.

 

Sentier Cloutier Trail addresses the needs of local residents while appealing to nature, recreation and history enthusiasts from the broader community.

 

With support from The Winnipeg Foundation, the recreational trail system in Manitoba will continue to flourish.