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 ₹11,979 per night from 21 Nov to 22 Nov
₹11,979
₹14,122 total
21 Nov - 22 Nov
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)
"Everything was good"

Reviewed on 17 Oct 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 ₹10,903 per night from 26 Oct to 27 Oct
₹10,903
₹12,360 total
26 Oct - 27 Oct
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! (1,023 reviews)
"We stayed here for one night to go to watch the Oilers game the hotel is nice, clean & comfortable and offers a huge hot tub and workout room. They have a good dinning option for breakfast and dinner. Was a 15 minute walk to the Roger’s Arena so perfect for games/concerts."

Reviewed on 13 Oct 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Edmonton Downtown
Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown Hotel

Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown Hotel

3.5 out of 5
10235 - 101 Street, Edmonton, AB
The price is ₹9,247 per night from 12 Nov to 13 Nov
₹9,247
₹10,614 total
12 Nov - 13 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Edmonton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (3,412 reviews)
"Everyone was very kind, super friendly and professional. I was impressed with the hotel. The food in the restaurant was delicious and they were very accommodating of my allergies."

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown 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.
Stylish Downtown Condo near Rogers Place | Parking, Gym, Balcony & Kitchen

Stylish Downtown Condo near Rogers Place | Parking, Gym, Balcony & Kitchen

4.5 out of 5
10150 117 St NW, Edmonton, AB
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Edmonton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour fitness centre. Popular attractions Rogers Place and West Edmonton ...
10/10 Exceptional! (7 reviews)
"Nice quiet cute place"

Reviewed on 24 Aug 2025

Stylish Downtown Condo near Rogers Place | Parking, Gym, Balcony & Kitchen
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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