At the Edmonton River Valley, go for a leisurely stroll or cycle along some of the many trails, and stop for a picnic on the grass. Rent a canoe to explore the North Saskatchewan River on a warm day or sit beneath large shady trees to people-watch. In winter, go cross-country skiing or hike past trees laden with snow. Autumn and spring are great seasons to capture the flora and fauna on camera.
Edmonton River Valley comprises 18,400 acres (7,400 hectares) and consists of 22 major parks, connected by more than 93 miles (150 kilometers) of trails. It’s the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America and is shared by Edmonton and its surrounding communities.
People probably roamed this fertile valley as early as 10,000 B.C., just after the last ice age. With the arrival of settlers looking for agricultural sites some 150 years ago, the area around the North Saskatchewan River became more and more developed. Fortunately, much of the nature was preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Head down to the river to go rowing, canoeing or fishing. You can catch burbot, lake sturgeon and walleye, but check local fishing regulations beforehand. There are lots of bird-watching opportunities across the valley too, so read up on the local species.
During winter, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on some of the special tracks set up throughout the valley. There are also four skating rinks to circle around on too. If you are visiting in spring, summer or fall, you can go rollerskating on the paved trails instead. Join a Segway tour for a less strenuous way to explore the parklands.
To try something different, take a raft or a stand-up paddle board down the river to get a good look at the forested parklands from the water. Check the weather and river conditions before you head out.
If you are visiting the river valley from downtown Edmonton it takes about five minutes by car, 30 minutes on foot or 15 minutes by light rail from Churchill Station.
North Saskatchewan River Valley
Where to stay in North Saskatchewan River Valley
Downtown Edmonton
Central business district with arts institutions like Francis Winspear Centre for Music and Citadel Theatre, Edmonton City Centre shopping, and Ice District's sports and entertainment. Accessible via light rail and pedestrian skywalks.
West Edmonton
West Edmonton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like West Edmonton Mall and World Waterpark.
Southwest Edmonton
If you're spending time in Southwest Edmonton, check out sights like South Edmonton Common or Currents of Windermere and hop on the metro to see more the city at Century Park Station or Southgate Station.
North Central Edmonton
If you're spending time in North Central Edmonton, check out sights like Kingsway Mall or Commonwealth Stadium and hop on the metro to see more the city at Kingsway-Royal Alex Station or NAIT Station.
Whyte ave
Whyte ave is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Magic Lantern Princess Theatre and Varscona Theatre while in the area.
Northeast Edmonton
Travelers choose Northeast Edmonton for its great live music. Hop aboard the metro at Clareview Station or Belvedere Station and check out top sights like Clareview Recreational Centre.
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Popular places to visit
West Edmonton Mall
Take the family to the largest mall in North America, with over 800 stores, restaurants, amusement parks, theaters, gyms, a petting zoo, an ice palace and aquarium.
Rogers Place
Catch an event at Rogers Place during your trip to Edmonton. Discover the entertainment choices and shops in this vibrant area.
South Edmonton Common
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to South Edmonton Common, a favorite shopping spot in Edmonton. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.
World Waterpark
Bring your family to World Waterpark and enjoy some excitement at this amusement park in Edmonton. Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this vibrant area.
Fort Edmonton Park
One of Canada’s largest living history museums places you in four eras from centuries ago, including Edmonton’s fur trading and pioneering days.
University of Alberta
Walk around the campus at University of Alberta during your stay in Edmonton. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or attend a sporting event.
- Edmonton Convention Centre
- Fort Edmonton Park
- Kinsmen Sports Centre
- The Valley Zoo
- Alberta Legislature Building
- Terwillegar Park
- Muttart Conservatory
- Telus Field
- River Valley Funicular
- William Hawrelak Park
- Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- High Level Bridge
- The Riverbend Athletic Club
- John Janzen Nature Centre
- Whitemud Equine Learning Centre
- Victoria Golf Course
- Urban Jungle Run
- Museum of Zoology
- University of Alberta