Parks & recreation

The neighbourhoods of Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood in southeast Winnipeg are known for their beautiful parks, extensive walking trails, and excellent recreational facilities. With scenic green spaces, modern playgrounds, and easy access to nature, these communities offer outstanding opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and fitness lovers alike.

Parks in Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood

Bonavista Park

• A newly developed park in the growing Bonavista neighbourhood, designed to offer modern recreational features.
• Features include:
  • Playgrounds with innovative equipment for children.
  • Multi-use sports fields for soccer, football, and casual games.
  • Walking and cycling paths that connect to the neighbourhood’s network of trails.
  • Green spaces and picnic areas for community gatherings.

Island Lakes Community Park

• One of the largest and most well-loved parks in the area, providing a variety of recreational activities.
• Key amenities include:
  • A scenic lake with walking trails looping around the water.
  • Playgrounds and splash pads for families with young children.
  • Tennis courts and basketball courts for sports lovers.
  • Large open fields used for soccer, casual sports, and picnics.
  • Winter activities, including ice skating on the lake and tobogganing on designated hills.

Royalwood Park

• A serene natural area with a focus on conservation and outdoor recreation.
• Highlights include:
  • The Seine River Greenway Trail, which provides stunning views of the Seine River and surrounding forested areas.
  • Hiking, birdwatching, and photography opportunities in a peaceful setting.
  • Cycling and walking paths that connect to the Bois-des-Esprits Trail.
  • A small playground and green space for relaxation and play.

Bois-des-Esprits Forest (Near Royalwood & Island Lakes)

• One of Winnipeg’s most beautiful urban forests, located along the Seine River.
• Features:
  • 6 km of well-maintained walking and biking trails through a lush, natural forest.
  • Public art installations, including the famous "Tree Spirit" carvings hidden within the trees.
  • Wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of deer, foxes, and various bird species.
  • Boardwalk areas to protect wetlands and provide a scenic walking experience.

Recreational Facilities in Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood

Southdale Community Centre 

• A full-service recreational facility that serves residents of Island Lakes, Bonavista, and Royalwood.
• Amenities include:
  • Indoor hockey rinks with skating programs and hockey leagues.
  • Outdoor skating rinks for public skating in winter.
  • Soccer fields and baseball diamonds.
  • Fitness classes, yoga, and Zumba programs.
  • Meeting rooms for social gatherings and community events.

Dakota Community Centre & Jonathan Toews Sportsplex

• A state-of-the-art recreational facility offering:
  • An indoor fieldhouse for soccer, track, and multi-sport use.
  • A modern fitness centre with a weight room and group classes.
  • Two NHL-sized hockey rinks for leagues and public skating.
  • Gymnastics and dance programs for children and teens.
  • Turf fields for year-round sports training.

Walking, Running, and Cycling Trails

• Royalwood, Bonavista, and Island Lakes are highly walkable neighbourhoods with extensive pathway systems.
• Popular routes include:
  • Island Lakes Walking Trails, which wrap around scenic lakes and park spaces.
  • The Seine River Greenway Trail, connecting Royalwood to South St. Vital.
  • Bois-des-Esprits Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
• Several parks offer outdoor skating rinks, including those at Island Lakes Community Park and Southdale Community Centre.
• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular along the Bois-des-Esprits and Seine River trails.
• Tobogganing hills in community parks provide winter fun for families.

The neighbourhoods of Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood offer an incredible mix of modern parks, scenic walking trails, and recreational facilities. Whether you enjoy hiking through urban forests, playing organized sports, or relaxing by a scenic lake, these communities provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun and active living. Their commitment to green spaces, family-friendly amenities, and community events makes them some of Winnipeg’s best areas for recreation and nature lovers alike.