Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, is a charming unincorporated urban community nestled in the heart of Canada. Previously classified as a town until January 1, 2015, Gilbert Plains now forms part of the Gilbert Plains Municipality. This picturesque community is located on the Valley River, in the Parkland Region, perfectly situated between Riding Mountain National Park and Duck Mountain Provincial Park. Gilbert Plains even had its moment in the spotlight during season 3 of the CBC program Still Standing, with an episode featuring the community airing on September 5, 2017.
Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, was incorporated in 1906, with the original townsite located a few miles to the south. The community owes its name to Gilbert Ross, a Métis man who resided in the region when the first European settler, Glenlyon Campbell, arrived. On January 1, 2015, the Town of Gilbert Plains underwent a significant change, relinquishing its town status to amalgamate with the Rural Municipality of Gilbert Plains, forming the Gilbert Plains Municipality.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, had a population of 773. These residents were living in 356 of its 407 total private dwellings, marking a slight decrease of -1.5% from its 2016 population of 785. With a land area of 2.74 km2 (1.06 sq mi), Gilbert Plains had a population density of 282.1/km2 (730.7/sq mi) in 2021.
Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, is conveniently located on Highway 5 and the CN railway line, positioned between Dauphin and Grandview. This places it approximately 250 miles (400 km) northwest of Winnipeg. The Gilbert Plains railway station receives Via Rail service, providing easy access for visitors and residents alike. Although the community previously had an airport, it no longer operates.
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