DCHP-3

monkey trail

DCHP-3 (Apr 2025)
n. — Informal, especially Winnipeg, Manitoba

an unofficial path, particularly in nature or urban settings; often a shortcut.

Type: 3. Semantic Change — The term is used predominantly in Winnipeg, Manitoba, though other uses, e.g. the 1984 quotation from Nova Scotia, the 1993 quotation from Edmonton, or the 2010 from Kenora, Ontario, confirm some use beyond Manitoba. COD-2 lists the term as "Cdn (West)" and defines it as "a narrow trail, in a park, field, along a riverbank, etc. created by the passage of walkers, cyclists, etc.". The Wiktionary entry seems to follow this assessment, considering it "Western Canada". The term is not listed in Merriam-Webster Unabridged or OED-3.
Not to be confused with tropical monkey trails, a path through the wilderness to view monkeys.

Quotations

1964
ALONG THE "MONKEY TRAILS"
Along the Assiniboine River leading into the city park are the monkey paths or trails. These are the trails to adventure known to generations of city youngsters. They are part of children's lore.
1984
And the Monkey Trail, in any case, would lead her right up to the kitchen door. She looked to the bears. What had Glenden said so long ago?
1993
She chases me home Through the old monkey trails Grabs the scissors and cuts Off my golden pig-tails.
1997
I was born and raised in Winnipeg. As a kid, I rode my bike on the Monkey Trails down by the Red River -- trails on ancient Indian footpaths. I did not like the river. It was brown, ugly and slow. What good was a river you couldn't swim in? I turned my back on the Prairies for the East. I had a child. A child needs a river. Back I came. Now she's on her own. So am I.
2010
Kenora has an excellent inventory of existing trails. These range from roadways, paved pathways, granular and grassy trails to “monkey” trails and informal ATV and snowmobiling routes.
2025
Monkey Trail to Shelter
Monkey Trail to Shelter is a 140 m less popular white paved path trail located near Winnipeg Manitoba. This multi-use trail can be used both directions.

References