Your Guide To North Saskatchewan River Valley – Canada’s Largest Urban Parkland

Written on 09/15/2025
SOUBHIK CHAKRABARTI

The North Saskatchewan River Valley is Edmonton’s crown jewel — stretching through the heart of the city with 22 major parks, over 150 km of trails, and stunning river views. At 7,400 hectares, it’s 22 times bigger than New York’s Central Park, making it the largest stretch of urban parkland in Canada.

Whether you’re walking, biking, floating down the river, or enjoying festivals, this valley is the ultimate mix of nature, recreation, and city life.

Explore the Edmonton River Valley

Getting Here

Runs through central Edmonton, along the North Saskatchewan River, connecting dozens of neighbourhoods.

1. By Public Transit
Use Edmonton Transit (ETS) to reach access points like Rundle Park, Kinsmen Park, or Government Centre Station.

2. By Car
Paid parking at major parks: Rundle Park, Emily Murphy Park, and Kinsmen Park.
(Note: William Hawrelak Park is closed for renovations until ~2026.)

3. By Bicycle or On Foot
The trail system connects directly to downtown and university areas.

You can also access via the 100 Street Funicular, which links downtown Edmonton to Louise McKinney Riverfront Park.

100 Street Funicular Info

Step 2: Access Points & Popular Parks

The valley has over 20 entry parks. Some must-visits:

  • Rundle Park – sports fields, fishing ponds, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
  • Kinsmen Park – central hub with sports facilities and access to Walterdale Bridge.
  • Emily Murphy Park – great for river access, picnics, and canoe launching.
  • Louise McKinney Riverfront Park – scenic downtown entry point, often used for river floats and festivals.
  • Victoria Park – home to the IceWay skating trail in winter, plus cross-country skiing.

Tips Before You Visit

  • Cycling & Fat Biking: Bike-friendly trails year-round. In winter, fat biking is popular.
  • Dog-Friendly: Off-leash areas in several parks (Terwillegar, Gold Bar, etc.).
  • River Access: Canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from launch sites like Terwillegar, Kinsmen, or Louise McKinney Park.

Paddle Alberta: North Saskatchewan River.

Best Seasons:

  • Summer – biking, hiking, picnics, paddling.

  • Fall – golden leaf views.

  • Winter – skiing, snowshoeing, skating at Victoria Park Oval.

Trail Maps: Available from the City with slope/grade info for accessibility.

Step 3: Things to Do

  1. Walking & Hiking – Trails for every skill level, from riverside strolls to forest climbs.
  2. Cycling – Use paved or gravel trails that cross the entire city.
  3. Floating & Paddling – Popular launch spots include Terwillegar and Louise McKinney Parks.
  4. Fishing – Hermitage Park and Rundle Park are great for anglers.
  5. Winter Fun – Skiing, snowshoeing, skating at Victoria Park IceWay.
  6. Lookouts – Walterdale Bridge, Keillor Point (“End of the World”), Legislature Grounds.

How to Explore – Step by Step

  1. Start at Louise McKinney Park – a downtown gateway with trails and river views.

  2. Follow the Trails to Kinsmen Park – enjoy riverside paths and sports facilities.

  3. Cross Walterdale Bridge – take in skyline and river views.

  4. Stop at Emily Murphy Park – relax by the river or launch a canoe.

  5. Finish at Rundle Park – a family-friendly hub with fishing and picnics.

Step 4: Annual Festivals & Events

  • Edmonton Heritage Festival – Canada’s largest multicultural event. Traditionally at Hawrelak, but relocated during renovations.
  • Freewill Shakespeare Festival – Outdoor theatre, now held at alternate valley parks like Glastonbury Park or Gallagher Park during renovations.
  • Symphony Under the Sky – ESO’s open-air concerts. Normally, Hawrelak is currently at alternate venues (e.g., Legislature Grounds).
  • Silver Skate Festival – Edmonton’s longest-running winter festival, relocated during Hawrelak construction.
  • Cycling Events – Gran Fondo and other rides often pass through the valley.

Always confirm event locations before visiting, since Hawrelak Park is closed until ~2026.

Step 5: Nearby Attractions

  • Royal Alberta Museum – Alberta’s largest museum, 10 min from downtown valley trails.

  • Art Gallery of Alberta – Modern and historical art.

  • Whyte Avenue (Old Strathcona) – Shopping, restaurants, and nightlife near the south valley.

Getting Back

  • LRT: Government Centre, University, and Stadium stations connect directly to trails.
  • Car: Major parks like Rundle, Emily Murphy, and Kinsmen have parking.
  • Bike/Walk: Trails loop back into downtown and neighbourhoods.

Final Note

The North Saskatchewan River Valley is Edmonton’s natural playground. With 22 parks, 150 km of trails, year-round recreation, and world-class festivals, it’s the best way to experience the city’s outdoors.

Even with Hawrelak Park closed for upgrades, the valley’s beauty and activities remain unforgettable. Whether you’re here for a paddle, a festival, or just a sunset walk, the River Valley is pure Edmonton.