Let's Talk About Edmonton's Stunning Parks and Trails

Think of Edmonton, and several images might pop into your mind. Alberta’s second-largest city is known for its landmarks, perhaps most famously the West Edmonton Mall. Or perhaps your imagination takes you to Rogers Place, where you’re on the edge of your seat, praying for the Oilers to score another goal. Go Oilers Go!

If you’ve never visited Edmonton before, nature and greenery might be the last thing on your mind. For those of us who live here, there’s no escaping the undeniable beauty that surrounds us all. Today, I can’t wait to tell you about some of Edmonton’s spectacular parks, trails, and other green spaces!

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Scenery Along the Waterfront

Alberta may be as inland as you can get, but the province is home to approximately 600 freshwater lakes, varying from small mountain lakes to massive bodies of water spanning hundreds of kilometres! At least 10 to 15 lakes are within an hour’s drive from Edmonton (like Bearspaw and Larkspur), which makes for some truly glorious nature experiences.

William Hawrelak Park

This 68-hectare park features a human-made lake, spectacular hiking trails, and wide open fields. Though the main park is temporarily closed for revitalization, the perimeter trails along the river are open for exploration.

Louise McKinney Riverfront Park

Located close to downtown Edmonton, Louise McKinney Riverfront Park acts as a gateway between the city and a network of River Valley parks and trails. It also connects to the Trans Canada Trail System. Park amenities include a Chinese garden and a gazebo where you can enjoy some shade and relaxation. Alternatively, head to Tawatinâ Bridge to take in the view.

Rundle Park

Another outdoor paradise with a human-made lake, Rundle Park is known for rolling, grassy fields and fantastic multi-use trails for hiking and cycling. Other amenities include numerous picnic sites and a golf course. In the winter, kids (and the young at heart) fly down the tobogganing hill. Plus, a two-kilometre IceWay provides an out-of-this-world experience for skating enthusiasts.

Gold Bar Park

In the late 1800s, prospectors would pan for gold along the gravel bars running into the North Saskatchewan River. Later, the community would be named “Gold Bar,” as was the massive park adjacent to the neighbourhood.

Fast forward to today, and Gold Bar Park is now a popular winter destination, thanks to its stunning cross-country ski trails. However, it’s a beautiful place to visit any time of year, with picnic sites, water fountains, playgrounds, and even an off-leash dog area. Your whole family will enjoy an outing here, especially the four-legged members!

What kind of lifestyle can you expect in Southwest Edmonton? Learn more about our communities right here.

Edmonton’s Breathtaking Community Gardens

Hiking isn’t the only way to appreciate nature. Edmonton also supports more than 80 community gardens, a brilliant way to promote locally grown fruits and vegetables and healthy lifestyles. If you want to get involved or start your own project, you can learn more on the city’s website.

Otherwise, you’ll find small patches of paradise sprinkled throughout Edmonton. Notable examples include:

Parkallen Community Garden is a major source of pride – and everyone is welcome to wander through and enjoy the sights and even sample some produce. The garden also hosts workshops and children’s programs for anyone who wants to get involved.

Green & Gold Community Garden boasts colourful flowers and a bountiful harvest of vegetables and herbs. There are also garden markets every Tuesday and Saturday during the summer and fall. It’s not just a sight to behold; it’s a force for good for the world, with all donations supporting the Tubahumurize Association in Rwanda.

Strathearn Community Garden is both a community garden and a public park maintained by the City of Edmonton Parks department. 18 raised garden plots allow for a variety of plants, such as wildflower gardens, herb beds, rhubarb, or even raspberry bushes.

Are you planning to buy your first (or next) home in Edmonton? The posts below can get you started:

The Ribbon of Green

Did you know Edmonton is home to the largest stretch of urban parkland in Canada? That’s what you get with the North Saskatchewan River Valley parks system, with more than 7,300 hectares of gorgeous parkland and trails that you could visit anytime of year, summer or winter.

It’s called the Ribbon of Green, consisting of more than 30 municipal and provincial parks. There are too many to name, but the shortlist includes:

Terwillegar Park – which features a launch area for canoes and paddle boats.
Victoria Park – where you’ll find the Victoria Park Oval, a 400-metre running track, which turns into a skating rink in the winter.
Gallagher Park – the site of the much-anticipated annual Edmonton Folk Music Festival.
Forest Heights Park – with tennis courts and majestic views of the North Saskatchewan River.
Mill Creek Ravine – a favourite spot for dog walkers and cyclists, thanks to its pedestrian bridge and riverside views.

In addition to countless parks and playgrounds, Edmonton boasts more than 150 km of trails throughout the River Valley. Many are paved, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. If you love greenery and spending as much time in nature as possible, your family will feel right at home in Edmonton!

Do you want to explore the possibility of buying or selling a home in Edmonton? I’m happy to help! Send me an email to jolene@jolenelangelle.com or give me a call at 780.910.1317 today to start a conversation.