Spirit Sands and Devils Punch Bowl
Manitoba's own 'Desert' in Spruce Woods Provincial Park
Statistics
To Devils Punch Bowl
| Total Distance: |
5.0 km (return) |
| Estimated Time: |
2 - 5 hours |
| Average Grade: |
Unknown |
| Structure: |
Loop - Complete |
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|
Elevation Gain:
|
Unknown |
| Start Elevation: |
Unknown |
|
To Spirit Sands
| Total Distance: |
5.0 km (return) |
| Estimated Time: |
2 - 5 hours |
| Average Grade: |
Unknown |
| Structure: |
Linear - Return |
|
|
Elevation Gain:
|
Unknown |
| Start Elevation: |
Unknown |
|
Directions
Trailhead is very clearly marked from the highway. From the Trans-Canada, turn South on #5 and then watch for the signs once you are inside the park.
Details
This is a moderate to easy level trail which passes through a really unique ecosystem. Right smack in the middle of the prairie lies the "Spirit Sands", a dune filled desert-like area. While not technically a desert (due to the amount of rainfall the area gets each year) it sure looks and feels like one. There are shifting sands and several varieties of plant an animal life that are completely unique to this area. Among them are the Plains Hognose snake and the Skink (a small and very elusive lizard).
There are some fairly steep grades along these trails, but nothing too challenging. There is not a lot of tree cover for large portions of the trail, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat! There are two pumps along the trail at which you can refill waterbottles, but both have signs which advise against drinking from them without boiling the water first. Mind you, I've done this numerous times and seem to have survived.
The "Devil's Punchbowl" geological formation isn't astounding, but it is a nice walk. Both trails are worth taking at least once in your lifetime just to see the unique ecosystem.
Photographs
GPS Waypoints
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