Trails on the city’s river banks can yield a few surprises.

Every summer Edmonton’s River Valley becomes a slithering green ribbon of lush tree-surrounded trails along the North Saskatchewan River. Alberta’s capital city boasts 160 km of urban parkland, the largest stretch of its kind in North America. Well-maintained paths of dirt, gravel, pavement, wooden boardwalks, stairs, bridges and even a funicular sprawl throughout the city for cyclists, runners, nature enthusiasts and dog walkers alike to refresh mind and body. 

While dozens of paths winding through the valley, here’s a look at three very popular trails.

Gold Bar Park to Rundle Park

Starting in the far east side of the city and following the river until the crossing at Ainsworth Dyer Memorial Bridge, this beautiful path is fairly level for a leisurely and scenic stroll along the bank, lush grasses and through wooded areas. The Rundle Park footbridge marks the trail’s end, enabling users to catch a view of the river, one of only a couple spots on the path where that’s possible. This 6.5-km round trip would take an hour or two to complete. 

Hawrelak Park to Mackenzie Ravine  

Flat and boasting wide footpaths, this popular year-round destination is a perfect place for some all-inclusive exercise before or after an outdoor lunch, as the entrance to the path is at Hawrelak Park’s Picnic Site 2. At four km long and taking up to an hour to complete, this trail stands out due to the fact it has large sections along it where dogs are allowed off leash.

Whitemud Creek Trail

A change in elevation of up to 449 feet may sound daunting, but this six-km path is considered an easy hike that is relatively flat with moments of incline and can be covered in 90 minutes. The ravine here is home to an old growth forest with some of the tallest trees in the city.

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