Damage Done To Dauphin's Northgate Trails

The Northgate Trail system just outside of Dauphin features 26 kilometres of trail created through land-use agreements with six separate landowners and it is one of the nicest trail networks in all of Manitoba.

Construction on the trails started a few years ago after Dauphin was awarded the Manitoba Summer Games, which will now take place in 2024. Attracting hikers and bikers from all over the province, the Northgate Trails have become a hotspot.

And after a recent incident, Clayton Swanton with the Dauphin Derailleurs is reminding people of proper etiquette when using the trails. On Sunday, it was reported that two individuals on horses entered the trails via the Edwards Creek trail in Riding Mountain National Park. They then proceeded to ride their horses past multiple Northgate Trail markers and as a result, damage was done to parts of the clay-based trails that were very soft due to spring conditions.

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Swanton says it was unfortunate to hear of the news, especially with how hard volunteers work to keep the trails in great shape.

"The trails are pretty specific to non-motorized and non-equestrian to protect the integrity of the trails," said Swanton, Infrastructure Chair with the Derailleurs. "When things like this happen, it makes it less enjoyable for others and it isn't as safe, either."

Clayton hopes it was unintentional, but he says there are many markers that let you know you're on the trail system. With warmer temperatures on the way as early as later this week, Swanton says everyone is very excited for what should be an extremely busy summer on the trails.

"Whether you're a biker or a walker, this is a great place to be, and we hear nothing but great things from people that do take advantage of the trails," offered Swanton.

And with summer just right around the corner, Swanton says it's tremendous that people in the region and around the province can utilize the Northgate Trails whenever they want.