Why Everyone’s Quietly Obsessed with Little Mountain Park
Little Mountain Park might not be as grand as Assiniboine Park nor as thoughtfully landscaped as King’s Park, but it has a charm all its own.
It’s the kind of place where locals know the best off-leash loops and where sunsets filter perfectly through tall pines for that perfect Insta-worthy shot.
Whenever I need a break from the city buzz or just want to let my dog run wild, I go here and enjoy its quiet trails and forest breezes. This beautiful yet low-key spot makes time slow down just a bit.
If you’ve never been (or are planning to go), here’s my special guide to help you explore Little Mountain Park like you’ve always known it.
Where is Little Mountain Park?
Little Mountain Park is a 160-acre park located at 64093 Klimpke Rd, Winnipeg, in the southwest River Heights area. This is just northwest of the junction of Route 90 and Inkster Boulevard, making it easy to reach from the city.
How to Get to Little Mountain Park
By Car:
From downtown Winnipeg, start by heading north on Fort Street toward Portage Avenue. Continue onto Notre Dame, then take Route 90 North and follow it for a while until you reach Bergen Cutoff Road in Rosser.
From there, take Park Royale Way and continue onto Klimpke Road. Keep going straight and you’ll reach the entrance to Little Mountain Park.
By Bike:
Start by walking to the Southbound Main at Lombard stop—it’s about a 4-minute walk. Hop on Bus 28 Inkster Industrial Park and ride for around 33 minutes until you reach the Northbound Brookside at Inkster stop.
From there, it’s about a 30-minute walk until you reach the park entrance. It’s a bit of a trek, but definitely doable if you’re up for some extra steps.
Best Time to Visit Little Mountain Park
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The best time to visit Little Mountain Park is in late spring through early summer or early fall. This is when Winnipeg offers mild, pleasant weather and beautiful seasonal scenery—perfect for hiking, picnicking, birding, or just hanging out.
Things to Know about Little Mountain Park
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History
Little Mountain Park began as one of Winnipeg’s first limestone quarries in 1896, carved into the bare limestone ridge that defines the area. The quarry operated for nearly a decade before being abandoned, leaving behind pits that have since filled with water.
In 1965, the City officially set the land aside as a public park, acknowledging both its natural and historical significance. Since then, Little Mountain has grown into a beloved 160-acre urban sanctuary with extensive hiking and cross-country ski trails.
Hours of Operation
Open year-round, Little Mountain Park can be visited daily from 7 AM to 10 PM. While accessible in all seasons, it sees the most visitors during spring, summer, and fall.
Parking
Little Mountain Park has two main free parking lots for visitors. The north lot is accessible from Farmer’s Avenue, while the west lot can be found off Klimpke Road.
What to Do in Little Mountain Park
Explore the park’s trails
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Little Mountain Park features a main 3.2 km loop—a bark-chip Forest Trail—that winds through aspen, oak, and spruce. You’ll also see limestone and some wildlife like deer and chickadees.
Beyond the main loop, there are numerous smaller loops and connector paths. Many wind around old quarry pits and grasslands, offering quiet offshoots that are perfect for a scenic photo op or a peaceful picnic.
Let your dog run free
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Dog lovers should definitely go to Little Mountain Park, since it has a huge off-leash area in the northwest corner. This wide-open field is one of the best places in Winnipeg to let your dog burn off energy while socializing with other pups.
If your pup prefers a leashed stroll, dogs are also welcome on the park’s main trails, where you’ll both enjoy a peaceful walk through forested paths. Just remember to bring water and be mindful of any wildlife you might encounter.
Go birdwatching
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Thanks to its mix of forests, meadows, and open sky, Little Mountain Park is a great place to bring your binoculars. Birders can expect to see woodpeckers, warblers, hawks, and even an owl now and then.
Early mornings are best, when the park is quiet and the birds are most active—you might be surprised what flies by. Bring a field guide if you want to brush up on your IDs, and don’t miss spring and fall migrations.
Snap nature photos
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Little Mountain Park is a favorite among local photographers, and it’s easy to see why. The limestone formations, rustic trails, and sweeping grasslands offer tons of variety and drama—definitely perfect for macro shots or wide-angle panoramas.
Fall is a particularly popular season for photography, with golden leaves and moody skies. Plus, quarry edges make striking backdrops, and the sunsets over the meadows are pure magic—make sure your phone is fully charged!
Enjoy a lovely picnic
Bring a blanket, some snacks, and a good book—Little Mountain Park has plenty of picnic-friendly spots. There are tables scattered throughout the park, and fire pits are available if you’re up for roasting marshmallows or warming up on a chilly day.
If you’re lucky, you might score a picnic spot with views of the old quarry pond. Just be sure to pack everything you need, as there aren’t any vendors inside the park.
Attend community events
While it’s mostly a self-guided kind of park, Little Mountain occasionally hosts events like guided nature walks, dog park parties, or birding tours organized by local outdoor clubs. These are great for learning more about the area while socializing.
For instance, the Manitoba Orienteering Association periodically hosts “Let’s Try Orienteering,” a fun way to explore the park while learning map and compass skills. Check local listings or the City of Winnipeg’s website for updates.
Where to Eat near Little Mountain Park
Chrissea’s Restaurant & Catering
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Website: https://theplayerscourse.ca/2019/11/players-welcomes-chrisseas/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisseas-restaurant-catering/
Address: 2695 Park Royale Wy
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 8 PM
Contact: (204) 229-0482
Chrissea’s Restaurant & Catering at The Players Course is just a quick 3-minute drive from Little Mountain Park. This fully licensed restaurant and lounge offers comfy indoor seating, a sunny outdoor patio, and TVs if you want to watch the game.
The menu has something for everyone, from hearty classics to vegetarian options. Locals rave about their delicious Hot Beef and Chicken Club sandwiches, which can be served with a bowl of cauliflower soup—perfect after a chilly day outdoors.
Oak Point Restaurant
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Website: https://oakpointrestaurant.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakpointwpg/
Address: 533 Oak Point Hwy
Hours: Tue – Sat: 7:30 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 633-9488
Just a 5-minute drive away from Little Mountain Park lies Oak Point Restaurant, a local favorite for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert. This spot delivers classic comfort food in generous portions and at reasonable prices.
Diner-style favorites like cheeseburgers with fries and gravy and chicken gyros keep folks coming back—but don’t skip dessert. Their white chocolate cake with raspberry drizzle is a showstopper, and their rotating cheesecakes are legendary!
Where to Stay near Little Mountain Park
The Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel
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Website: http://lakeviewgrand.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the-grand-winnipeg-airport-hotel-by-lakeview/
Address: 1979 Wellington Ave
Hours: Check in: 3 PM
Check out: 12 PM
Contact: (204) 505-0145
Just 15 minutes from the park, the Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel offers stylish rooms with Keurig coffee makers, mini-fridges, and spa-like bathrooms. With free WiFi and an onsite restaurant, it’s a convenient spot to relax after your outdoor adventure.
Best Western Plus Winnipeg Airport Hotel
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Website: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.63017.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/best-western-plus-winnipeg-airport-hotel/
Address: 1715 Wellington Ave
Hours: Check in: 3 PM
Check out: 12 AM
Contact: (204) 775-9889
Another nearby hotel is Best Western Plus Winnipeg Airport Hotel, which is just across the airport (free shuttle included). Enjoy modern comforts like free WiFi, mini-fridges, ergonomic workspaces, plus an indoor pool and onsite dining (Dalton’s).