North Saskatchewan River Valley Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Alberta Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture
Photo provided by Alberta Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture
Alberta Legislature Building featuring interior views and heritage architecture
Alberta Legislature Building featuring heritage architecture and an administrative building
Fort Edmonton Park showing interior views

Escape the bustle of the city when you head to the picturesque river valley – the longest stretch of urban parkland in North America.

Edmonton River Valley is the perfect outdoor destination, whatever the time of year. Make the most of the summer warmth by exploring the huge expanse of parkland, perfect for picnics. The autumn sees the valley bathed in rich russet colours as the leaves turn, a must-see for budding photographers. In winter, once the snow has fallen, the vast network of trails is ideal for cross-country skiing. This valley is one of Edmonton’s natural gems.

This scenic green space covers 7400 hectares and is criss-crossed by over 150 kilometres of paths and trails, connecting 22 separate parks. It is the largest area of urban parkland in the whole of North America.

One of the best ways to explore the entire area is to hire a bike. This way you can cover the valley from one end to the other. You’ll find plenty of beautiful spots to stop for a picnic, and some popular sites can even be booked in advance.

You’ll get a wonderful view of the area and its wildlife from the water’s surface, if you opt to explore by canoe or kayak. You’ll be able to explore streams and waterways that otherwise you would never know existed, and the silence as you slice through the water allows you to catch a glimpse of fascinating water birds and mammals that normally are scared away. Canoes and kayaks can be hired from nearby vendors, and lessons are also available.

Keen anglers will love this stretch of water. The river is home to large populations of burbot, lake sturgeon and walleye. Head to nearby Hermitage Pond if trout-fishing is what you prefer. Regulations apply, so do make sure you have any required permits before heading out to cast a line.

If you are visiting in the winter, the river valley transforms into a pristine white wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing. Wrap up well, strap on your skis and be prepared for good workout. Many of the valley’s parks also have excellent outdoor skating rinks open all winter.

It only takes five minutes by car or 15 minutes with the LTR (Light Rail Transit) to reach the river valley from downtown Edmonton. Alternatively, you can make the journey on foot in 30 minutes.

Where to stay in North Saskatchewan River Valley

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Cloverdale

While you're in Cloverdale, take in top sights like Muttart Conservatory and jump on the metro at Muttart Station to see more of the city.

Cloverdale
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Windsor Park

While Windsor Park may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium and Rutherford House.

Windsor Park
Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton Downtown

3 out of 5
One Thornton Court, 99 Street & Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB
The price is ₹9,019 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹9,019
₹10,224 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Edmonton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,012 reviews)
"👍"

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton Downtown
DoubleTree by Hilton Edmonton Downtown

DoubleTree by Hilton Edmonton Downtown

4 out of 5
9576 Jasper Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB
The price is ₹9,531 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹9,531
₹10,804 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Edmonton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Charging $35 plus for parking is stupid. Park next door for $15 bucks a day."

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Edmonton Downtown
Chateau Lacombe Hotel

Chateau Lacombe Hotel

3.5 out of 5
10111 Bellamy Hill Nw, Edmonton, AB
The price is ₹7,934 per night from 20 Jul to 21 Jul
₹7,934
₹8,994 total
20 Jul - 21 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Edmonton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking (surcharge) and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful ...
8/10 Very Good! (3,087 reviews)
"Staff are very helpful."

Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

Chateau Lacombe Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Brand New 1 Br 1 Bath Close To All Walkable

Brand New 1 Br 1 Bath Close To All Walkable

2 out of 5
Edmonton
Stay at this apartment in Edmonton. Enjoy free parking. Popular attractions Commonwealth Stadium and West Edmonton Mall are located nearby.
Brand New 1 Br 1 Bath Close To All Walkable
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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