Westview Park

If you're looking for one of the most unusual viewpoints in Winnipeg, be sure to check out Westview Park. This green space, covering about 10 acres, stands out against the predominantly flat landscape, offering visitors a rare chance to see the city from above.

For many locals, Canada reveals an unexpected side here. Despite its official name, established in 1961, the park is affectionately known as "Garbage Hill." This nickname is a nod to its industrial past, which today is hidden beneath lush grass and landscaped slopes.

The park's central feature is a hill about 18 meters high. From its summit, breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline stretch in every direction, making it an ideal spot for those seeking space and quiet while staying within the city limits.

For more details about your visit or to get up-to-date information on slope conditions during winter, you can use the official contact details. Please note that the park is a municipal facility.

Year-round, Westview Park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. In the summer, its slopes are a popular spot for hiking and jogging, as well as cycling along winding paths. At the top of the hill, you'll find an interesting monument in the shape of a giant compass, made of limestone and concrete—a perfect location for memorable photos.

In winter, the park transforms into a hub of family fun. The hillsides are perfect for tobogganing and sledding. Interestingly, there was once even a ski school here, so winter sports enthusiasts will appreciate the terrain. For visitor safety, restrictions are in place on the steepest sections.

For pet owners, the park is prized for its off-leash dog park, where pets can run to their heart's content. In the evening, many people come specifically to watch the sunset or enjoy holiday fireworks, which are clearly visible from this elevation against the backdrop of Winnipeg's lights.

Reaching this scenic hill is quite easy, as it borders several of the city's major thoroughfares, including Wellington Avenue and Empress Street. If you prefer to travel by car, convenient access points and parking areas are located off Saskatchewan Avenue and Midland Street.

For those using public transport, the best options are the bus routes that run along the neighboring streets. The nearest stops are just a few minutes' walk from the park entrances. You can also easily reach the site by taxi from the city center; the ride takes very little time.

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider traveling by bicycle. Westview Park is well-integrated into the city's trail network, and its proximity to Winnipeg Station makes it accessible for those combining different modes of transport on their journey.

The history of this place is surprising and full of unexpected transformations. From 1875 to 1948, the current green space served as the city landfill, known as the Saskatchewan Avenue Dump. For decades, ash, construction debris, and household waste were brought here, which eventually formed the famous hill.

In 1907, a massive steam incinerator with a chimney over 60 meters high was built here. This facility, costing the city an impressive $130,000 at the time, was capable of processing up to 140 tons of waste daily. By the early 1940s, the "garbage mountain" had reached a height of 18 meters.

Interestingly, during World War II, there was serious discussion about conducting a controlled explosion inside the hill. Authorities hoped this would allow them to extract valuable metals needed for the war effort from the waste deposits; however, the project was never realized. In 1961, the area was officially converted into a park, receiving its current name.

For a general tour of the park and to leisurely enjoy the city views, 1–2 hours should be quite enough. This is plenty of time to climb to the top of the hill, take a few panoramic photos, and explore the commemorative monument.

If you plan to have a picnic, use the off-leash dog area, or visit in winter for sledding, it’s worth setting aside about 3–4 hours. The park's dynamic atmosphere encourages a longer stay in the fresh air.

The park is open to visitors daily and around the clock. This makes it an ideal spot for early morning runs at sunrise or romantic strolls under the starry sky.

While access to the grounds is open 24 hours a day, it is recommended to check the official city services website beforehand for the current condition of the trails or information on seasonal events.

There are many interesting locations around the park that can make your day even more fulfilling. Proximity to entertainment centers and cultural sites allows for an easy multi-stop itinerary in this part of the city.

Exploring the surroundings of Westview Park is a great opportunity to see both modern attractions and the historical architecture characteristic of this part of the country.