Top 24+ Edmonton Hiking Trails
Uncover the pure wonders that Edmonton has to supply by exploring its in depth community of climbing trails. With over 24 top-notch choices to select from, out of doors lovers will discover themselves spoiled for alternative. From scenic river valley hikes to difficult mountain treks, there’s something for everybody to take pleasure in. Lace up your climbing boots and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey by way of Edmonton’s breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights:
1. Various Terrain: Edmonton’s climbing trails provide a various vary of terrains, catering to hikers of all talent ranges. Whether or not you like a simple stroll or a extra rigorous climb, you may discover trails that fit your preferences. Enterprise by way of dense forests, picturesque meadows, and rolling hills, or problem your self with rocky terrain and steep ascents for an exhilarating expertise.
2. Breathtaking Views: Put together to be mesmerized by the gorgeous vistas that await you alongside Edmonton’s climbing trails. Be captivated by panoramic views of the North Saskatchewan River, the town skyline, and the encircling lush wilderness. Marvel on the vibrant foliage through the autumn months or witness the tranquility of snow-blanketed landscapes within the winter, providing picturesque scenes all yr spherical.
3. Ample Wildlife: Edmonton’s climbing trails present ample alternatives for encountering wildlife of their pure habitat. Hold your eyes peeled for a wide range of birds, together with hawks, eagles, and owls hovering above, or spot households of deer grazing peacefully alongside the path. Hopefully, you might even come throughout bigger mammals comparable to moose, foxes, or coyotes. Each hike brings the potential for a memorable wildlife sighting.
Edmonton is Alberta’s capital metropolis and sits about 3 hour drive north of Calgary. The 2 cities are fairly totally different, however what they’ve in widespread is nice entry to nature.
Edmonton has turn into well-known for the West Edmonton Mall which is large with a variety of issues to do in Edmonton apart from purchasing, for its chilly winters and for its surroundings.
Although not many individuals can say they go to Edmonton for climbing, that doesn’t imply there aren’t a tonne of nice Edmonton climbing trails close by.
Whereas there aren’t many waterfalls close to Edmonton, Edmonton is surrounded by pure magnificence each inside the metropolis which has over 150 km of pathways and alongside the North Saskatchewan River Valley trails in Edmonton.
Underneath an hour’s drive away is Elk Island Nationwide Park, after which 4 hours additional to the west is Jasper Nationwide Park and the good hikes in Jasper comparable to Whistlers Summit and extra.
In case you’re planning a visit to Edmonton, right here’s what you must find out about Edmonton climbing, when to go to, and which trails are the very best.
AllTrails is my go-to climbing app for locating, planning and navigating whereas I’m out on the paths. With offline maps on AllTrails+, you may be assured you’re nonetheless heading in the right direction, even with out cell sign.
Ideas for Mountain climbing in Edmonton
Earlier than you go climbing in Edmonton there are some issues to keep in mind to maintain you protected and shield the paths.
- Whereas many of the hikes in Edmonton on this record are free to entry, these in Nationwide Parks require a Nationwide Parks Cross from Parks Canada. You will get these at customer centres, or online earlier than you journey to Edmonton.
- There are bears, moose, bison, expensive and extra animals in and round Edmonton. Give wildlife area and don’t strategy them. Learn this publish about bear security.
- At all times observe AdventureSmart recommendation when going climbing and observe the three T’s: journey planning, taking the necessities and coaching.
- At all times pack your 10 necessities for climbing to maintain you protected + bear spray.
- Keep in mind to depart no hint. Don’t depart trash and follow trails.
What to pack for the very best strolling trails in Edmonton
What to pack for this hike will depend on what season you’re climbing in.
- Try my day hike packing record right here.
- In case you’re climbing in summer time it’s best to pack sunscreen, sun shades, layers, water and bug spray in addition to every part within the 10 necessities for climbing record.
- Right here is what to put on climbing in sizzling climate
- Try this publish on the very best leggings for climbing or what to put on climbing in summer time for extra particulars and my gear suggestions.
- In case you’re climbing in winter after the snow has began falling you’ll want microspikes on the very least. If there may be lots of snow you’ll in all probability want snowshoes.
- You also needs to take loads of layers together with a fleece layer, a puffy insulated jacket and a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hats and gloves are additionally needed in addition to a good backpack to maintain every part in.
- You also needs to pack water and a few snacks too to maintain you going as they’re a part of the 10 necessities for climbing!
- Planning a climbing date? Try what to put on on a climbing date however nonetheless look cool.
Finest time to go to Edmonton
Winters in Edmonton are much less crowded and may be tremendous fairly on a sunny day with all of the snow all over the place.
Nonetheless, it may be very, very chilly and isn’t the very best season for climbing in Edmonton because you’ll have shorter days and want avalanche coaching for exploring climbing trails in Edmonton on snowshoes.
Late spring (Might and June) and early fall (September and October) are arguably among the finest occasions to go to Edmonton.
There are usually fewer mosquitos and you may get lovely alpine wildflowers within the late spring and fall colors within the autumn.
Temperatures are nonetheless fairly heat however not too sizzling and there’s much less humidity.
Map of the very best Edmonton climbing trails
To get your bearings, I’ve put all these Edmonton hiking trails on the map under – simply click on to view the interactive map.
The map contains among the finest walks in Edmonton itself, in addition to the very best climbing trails close to Edmonton that contain a little bit of a drive.
Strolling trails in Edmonton
Under are among the finest hikes in Edmonton metropolis itself. They’re usually a bit shorter however nonetheless provide some implausible views or an opportunity to get exterior and discover the pure great thing about Edmonton.
Wolf Willow Stairs & Path
The Wolf Willow Stairs is a well-liked place for locals to train as they tackle the 1 km path with about 200 steps.
This staircase is certainly a problem that’ll get your coronary heart pumping but it surely’s way more enjoyable than utilizing the stair grasp within the gymnasium in my view!
The views artwork the highest make the climb so worthwhile! You’ll get views of the attractive Saskatchewan river valley under.
William Hawrelak Park
William Hawrelak Park in Edmonton is among the finest locations in Edmonton for a simple stroll.
The park performs host to summer time and winter festivals however exterior of the festivals, it’s a fantastic place to go for a stroll, have a picnic, or discover the forest within the park. Within the winter, remember to try the Edmonton Ice Citadel!
There are many trails inside the park in addition to the choice to increase your stroll in Edmonton alongside the river earlier than looping again to William Hawrelak Park.
The William Hawrelak Park Riverside Stroll in Edmonton is about 5 km and is a simple stroll across the perimeter of the park.
Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve
The Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve which extends south of Whitemud Park is a good place for Edmonton climbing adventures.
The park stretches for a number of kilometres north-south with loads of alternative for various trails. There are many viewpoints and bridges to cross over the ravine and it’s such a peaceable place to flee from the town.
Probably the greatest trails in Edmonton is present in Whitemud Park is the Whitemud Trail South which is about 5 km lengthy and is an efficient introduction to the Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve. There’s lots of city wildlife, like chickadees and pleasant squirrels to look out for too!
The MacTaggart Sanctuary in Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve can be a beautiful little space. It’s nice for some birding or only a peaceable stroll.
Authorities Home Park
Alongside the northern fringe of the North Saskatchewan River is Government House Park.
This Edmonton Park is nice for working, biking or strolling in Edmonton because it has nice views of the river.
Head by way of the park in the direction of MacKinnon Ravine which has a bit of little bit of a climb, or crosses over into William Hawrelak Park on the opposite facet of the river to make a loop hike.
Terwillegar Park
Terwillegar Park is a big park to the west of Edmonton metropolis centre which is a good place for climbing in Edmonton or cross-country snowboarding within the winter!
Stroll the Terwillegar Park outer loop which follows the skin of the park alongside the river over 6 km of trails. It’s a simple hike in Edmonton with nice views.
River Valley Path – Kinnaird Park Highlands
The River Valley Path in Edmonton stretches a good distance – 160 km in whole! Whereas I’m not suggesting you cowl it multi function go (though that will be an epic bike experience!), it simply goes to indicate how a lot Edmonton climbing has to supply.
For a shorter part of the Edmonton River Valley Path, try the Kinnaird Park Highlands. This path begins close to Concordia College in Edmonton and goes by way of the stunning Kinnaird Park. It’s a 4.3 km loop which is way extra manageable than 160 km!
Rundle Park Bridge Loop Path
The Rundle Park Bridge Loop trail is a 4.3 km path the place you’ll cross forwards and backwards over the river. There are some hilly sections, lakes and birding alternatives on this Edmonton climbing path.
The trail is fairly simple however since there may be some elevation is in the direction of the tougher finish of simple.
Relying on the time of yr you go on this Edmonton stroll, you possibly can see a lot of butterflies alongside the best way!
Capilano Park Loop Path
The Capilano Park Loop Trail is simply over 9 km lengthy and takes you round nearly the complete boundary of Capilano Park.
You’ll get a mixture of each nature and concrete surroundings as you stroll, run or bike this Edmonton climbing path.
Take pleasure in views of the river and downtown Edmonton in addition to the Wayne Gretzky Bridge.
West River’s Edge Wetlands Space Loop
North of Edmonton in Fort Saskatchewan, the West River’s Edge Wetlands loop trail is a good place for wildlife recognizing.
On this hike close to Edmonton, you’ll get to take pleasure in the great thing about the river and wetland ecosystem.
There are interpretive path indicators alongside the path so you may study extra concerning the wetlands and why they’re so necessary too.
Riverlot 56 Loop
The Riverlot 56 Loop trail is among the finest hikes close to Edmonton. It’s peaceable with minimal elevation achieve making it a simple hike close to Edmonton.
In winter, many of the trails within the space are used for cross-country snowboarding and you may nonetheless take pleasure in a winter’s stroll so long as you don’t step on the tracks!
In case you go to earlier within the morning or later within the day you might even see moose! Keep in mind to be cautious and don’t startle them. They’re massive animals who may be harmful and want their tempo.
Elk Island Nationwide Park climbing trails close to Edmonton
Elk Island Nationwide Park is among the finest well-known areas for Edmonton climbing. It’s not significantly mountainous however there are over 80 km of climbing trails to discover so it’ll maintain you busy should you’re searching for the place to go on hikes round Edmonton.
The park is filled with forests, meadows and marshes and you can too see free-roaming bison too!
Apart from climbing, there are many actions for all of the household together with kayaking or canoeing and paddleboarding, hen watching and simply chilling out with a picnic!
On a transparent night time, you may get implausible star-gazing circumstances too because the park is a part of the Beaver Hills Darkish Sky Protect. Time it proper and within the winter you might even get to see the Northern Lights above Edmonton.
One of the best trails in Elk Island Nationwide Park are detailed a bit additional under.
Hayburger Path
The Hayburger Trail affords robust possibilities of seeing plains Bison. The wildlife and surroundings on this widespread path in Elk Island Nationwide Park are laborious to beat!
The meadows on this hike close to Edmonton are the very best place to identify bison however you possibly can additionally see moose too.
Within the winter, the Hayburger path is nice for cross-country snowboarding.
Moss Lake Path
The Moss Lake Trail is just like among the different loops in Elk Island Nationwide Park, only a massive longer.
It’s largely within the forest and there are some small hill climbs however not too many.
You’ll be climbing by way of some lovely surroundings and the paths are simple to navigate. As with all Elk Island climbing trails, maintain a watch (and ear) open for wildlife!
As 12.6 km lengthy, the Moss Lake climbing path takes round 2.5- 3 hours to finish on common.
Wooden Bison path
The Wood Bison Trail close to Edmonton is nice for attending to see the wooden bison dwelling in Elk Island Nationwide Park.
On this hike, you’ll undergo forests, and previous lakes and (hopefully!) get the possibility to see a lot of the wildlife that lives within the park together with the bison, deer and birds.
The Wooden Bison path is 16 km lengthy however may be shortened by simply turning round everytime you really feel prefer it.
Beaver Pond Path
For a simple hike in Elk Island Nationwide Park, try the Beaver Pond Path. Right here you could possibly spot a beaver and also you’ll undoubtedly see beaver exercise (simply search for their dams!).
The Beaver Ponds loop path is about 3.5 km lengthy and rated simple.
Enjoyable truth: the beavers on this space have been reintroduced to the park within the Forties. Beforehand, the fur commerce had eradicated the entire authentic beaver inhabitants.
Amisk Wuche Path
The Amisk Wuche Trail is nice for climbing with kids close to Edmonton.
It’s a brief path, underneath 3 km, and has a collection of boardwalks throughout the beaver ponds.
You would possibly catch a glimpse of a beaver at work which is tremendous cool to see! And, in fact, you possibly can nonetheless see moose and bison roaming within the woods.
Bunchberry Meadows
Bunchberry Meadows lies to the west of Edmonton and is among the finest locations for simple hikes close to Edmonton.
It’s peaceable and scenic with 4 marked trails spanning over 8 km. You’ll hike by way of forests and meadows and will see wildflowers and berry bushes prepared to reap relying on the time of yr you go to.
The Aspen Loop in Bunchberry Meadows is a well-liked path that goes round a small lake within the meadows. It’s fairly a brief loop that’s nonetheless very scenic.
You may additionally attempt the Bunchberry Meadows outer loop. At 7 km, this loop is a bit of longer but it surely’s an effective way to see the very best that the world has to supply. There are some interpretive indicators alongside the best way the place you may study extra concerning the wildlife you would possibly come throughout.
Within the winter it’s a fantastic park for snowshoeing and cross-country snowboarding close to Edmonton.
Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Space
The Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Space is ideal for quieter Edmonton climbing trails.
There’s lots of selection relating to climbing right here with over 100 km of trails that can be utilized for climbing, working, biking and horseriding.
Very often you may go for a hike in Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Space and never come throughout anybody else, so should you’re searching for quiet climbing trails close to Edmonton, then try this space!
The paths at Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Space are an ideal climbing various to Elk Island Nationwide Park. Each areas are the same distance from Edmonton and whereas there aren’t any bison right here you don’t have to pay Parks Canada entrance charges.
Misplaced Lake and Neon Lake Loop
The Lost Lake and Neon Lake Loop within the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Space is among the finest hikes on this space.
It’s a fantastic loop path that’s comparatively simple however has some good way for these searching for an extended hike close to Edmonton.
There’s some lovely surroundings alongside the best way together with the 2 loops and you may lengthen or shorten the loop path as you want by taking among the different paths.
Arrow Head Lake Loop
The Arrow Head Lake Loop is one other nice path within the space for climbing close to Edmonton.
This path begins on the Waskehegan Staging Space car parking zone and goes all the best way to Arrow Head Lake.
You’ll begin on the Misplaced Lake Path and it’s nice all yr spherical because it’s nicely maintained by parks workers.
The path is just below 10 km however has very minimal elevation achieve so isn’t very troublesome.
Highline – Misplaced Lake – Push Lake
Located within the Islet Staging Space of Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Prinicial Recreation Space is the Highline-Lost Lake – Push Lake loop trail.
This path goes by way of a stupendous aspen forest and also you’ll go previous a number of lakes. Within the winter it’s a well-liked choice with cross-country skiers however you may nonetheless hike on the paths so long as you keep out of the tracks and maintain your wits about you.
Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is one other lovely Edmonton climbing space that’s widespread with locals.
It’ll take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to get right here from downtown Edmonton and it’s obtained round 20 km of trails to discover. It’s additionally a brilliant widespread spot for tenting close to Edmonton too.
There’s little in the best way of hills at this climbing space close to Edmonton, however there are many wildlife alternatives, together with beaver sightings!
A number of the finest trails in Miquelon Lake Provincial Park embrace the Miquelon Lake Loop which is about 9 km lengthy. It’s a simple hike with some cool deserted constructions to find. The Shoreline trail can be a fantastic choice – particularly when mixed with some swimming!
The Holdsworth trail is one other nice choice with nice views of the wetlands and maybe a moose or two! You’ll go previous one of many historic homesteads within the park too.
One among my favorite issues to do earlier than or after exploring Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is to cease off on the city of Camrose on the best way.
You’ll be able to seize a espresso and a few pastries or a breakfast sandwich from the cafes, or end off your hike with a post-hike beer at Battle River Brewery in Camrose.
Chickakoo Lake Recreation Space
The Chickakoo Lake Recreation Space is one other good spot to go climbing close to Edmonton.
With 11 km of trails and a number of totally different routes you may take, these trails are excellent for doing a little forest bathing and exploring on the identical time.
A number of the finest trails in Chickakoo Lake Recreation Space embrace the Chickakoo Lake Outer Loop and the Dog Leg Pond Loop.
The previous, is 6.5 km lengthy and has loads of spots for picnic-ing or taking a break alongside the best way. There’s additionally a little bit of climbing and, in fact, some nice views.
The Canine Leg Pond loop is far shorter and simply takes you round Canine Leg Lake. It’s nice for climbing with youngsters close to Edmonton.
Devon Voyageur Park
Simply half-hour away from the town, Devon Voyageur Park is a good choice for Edmonton climbing trails.
It’s located on the banks of the Saskatchewan River and so you may get some nice views of the river valley whilst you hike.
Devon River Valley Path
One of the best hike in Devon Voyageur Park is the Devon River Valley Trail which is about 3 km lengthy.
On this path, you’ll get wonderful views of the river cliffs that plunge steeply down and also you’ll need to sort out the Legs of Hearth Stairs. You’ll see the place they get this title from fairly shortly!
You may make your hike right here as lengthy or quick as you need by taking among the facet trails and looping round as you are feeling like. There are some good sandy seashores alongside the river that are excellent on a sizzling day.
This hike is widespread with locals, so remember to get there early should you’re searching for some peace and solitude.
The Waskahegan Path
The Waskahegan trail is a 309 km Edmonton climbing path that goes round and thru the town.
It’s maintained by a group of volunteers and runs by way of non-public land that means it has some stricter guidelines than different climbing trails close by.
You’ll be able to sort out the path in sections (or in a single go if you want!) by stopping over on the public campgrounds alongside the best way.
Free guided hikes can be found most weekends and anybody is welcome to hitch them. It’s an effective way to get out and discover this climbing route close to Edmonton whereas studying extra concerning the space too.
Mount Stearn
Mount Stearn in Sulphur Gates Provincial Recreation Space is a tough hike with over 1000 m elevation achieve over 15 km. Nonetheless, I believe it’s among the best day hikes close to Edmonton.
It’s completely definitely worth the effort although as you’ll hike up by way of alpine meadows in early summer time earlier than scrambling to the summit.
You received’t get a lot of a break from uphill climbing on this Edmonton climbing path, however who doesn’t love a little bit of a problem?!
Hannah began That Adventurer after graduating again in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to metropolis breaks in Europe, a 3 month street journey throughout the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years dwelling in Canada, you’ll discover posts on all of this.
Hannah specialises in lively journey and on That Adventurer you’ll discover climbing, strolling, biking, snowboarding and all kinds of lively journey guides to let you see a vacation spot in an adventurous method.
Now again in Europe, you’ll discover new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the following yr ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and locations in between.
Edmonton affords a plethora of unbelievable climbing trails for out of doors lovers. This text supplies a complete record of the highest 24+ trails in and across the metropolis. From picturesque river valley routes to difficult mountain climbs, there’s something for everybody. Whether or not you’re a newbie or an skilled hiker, these trails cater to all talent ranges. With breathtaking views, various landscapes, and well-maintained paths, Edmonton’s climbing trails are a haven for nature lovers. So lace up your boots and embark on an journey on this gorgeous Canadian metropolis.
