The best city hikes and walks in River Valley Area
4.8
(26)
661
hikers
11
hikes
Urban hiking trails in River Valley Area are characterized by diverse topography shaped by the waterways. The region features a combination of flatlands along riverbanks, rolling hills, and bluffs. These areas support dense woodlands and varied plant species, providing a rich natural environment within an urban setting. Water features such as the river itself, creeks, and reservoirs are common throughout the landscape.
Best urban hiking trails in River Valley Area
- The most popular urban hiking route is Goldstick Park loop…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
3.83km
01:00
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.5
(2)
2
hikers
7.16km
01:57
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
12.1km
03:10
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
12.4km
03:22
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around River Valley Area
Other adventures in River Valley Area
Tips from the Community
The beautiful North Saskatchewan River begins at the Saskatchewan Glacier in the Rockies and flows east through Edmonton and across central Alberta and Saskatchewan. It’s a popular location for paddling and fishing, with long stretches of forested banks and gravel bars. The river connects parks and trails and serves as a water source for several communities along its course.
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Covering 7,400 hectares along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, the River Valley Area is one of the largest urban parklands in North America. Overall it encompasses multiple independent city parks, over 160 kilometers of trails, and plenty of natural landscapes left to explore.
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Government House Park sits on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, offering a peaceful escape within Edmonton’s river valley. Known for its wide paved paths and river views, the park is a popular with cyclists and walkers and its trails connect to the city's extensive trail system. While it once hosted a ski hill in the 1960s, today the landscape is better known for its open picnic areas, river views, and winter toboggan hill.
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Located south of the city center, Strathcona is a pleasant neighborhood to live in. Its parks and street art create a peaceful setting for businesses and the cultural life that fuels its dynamism.
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ICE District is a vibrant neighbourhood in Edmonton. Rogers Place, an ice hockey arena that also hosts concerts, along with the Stantec and Edmonton Towers, showcase the city's modernity. The lights of the Neon Sign Museum, on the other hand, lend a more vintage feel to the area. It's also a great place to go out for a meal or a drink.
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This is an easy, well-maintained trail that is mostly packed dirt and gravel with some paved sections, perfect for walking, running, or biking year-round. The trail connects to Edmonton’s larger network, making it ideal for longer treks, and is a popular route for commuting through the greenbelt.
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Goldstick Park is a 45-hectare green space known for its forested trails, sports fields, and creekside walking paths. It’s popular for hiking and biking, with easy loops and secluded spots along the creek. The park also connects to the city’s trail network, making it a hub for year-round outdoor recreation.
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Perched above the North Saskatchewan River just south of downtown, Queen Elizabeth Park offers some of Edmonton’s best views of the river valley and the Walterdale Bridge. The park features landscaped gardens, picnic areas, and trail connections that lead down to the river’s edge and across to Kinsmen Park. It’s a favourite spot for photography, picnics, and catching the city skyline at sunset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in the River Valley Area?
The River Valley Area offers 8 urban hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. You'll find a good mix to explore the city's natural beauty.
What do other hikers say about the urban trails in River Valley Area?
The urban trails in the River Valley Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, scenic river views, and the accessibility of these urban routes.
Are there easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families in the River Valley Area?
Yes, the River Valley Area has 2 easy urban hikes perfect for beginners or families. Consider the Goldstick Park loop — Edmonton or the Wood stairs loop from Garneau for a gentle introduction to urban hiking.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in the River Valley Area?
Absolutely! Many of the urban trails in the River Valley Area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. Examples include the Goldstick Park loop — Edmonton, the Walterdale Bridge loop from Government Centre, and the Hiking loop from Canora.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on urban hikes in the River Valley Area?
Urban hikes in the River Valley Area offer a blend of natural and urban landscapes. You'll encounter lush vegetation along the riverbanks, diverse topography with rolling hills and ravines, and the river itself. The region's rich ecosystems support varied plant species and provide habitats for local wildlife.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the urban hiking trails?
Yes, several interesting landmarks and attractions can be found near or along the urban hiking trails. Keep an eye out for the iconic High Level Bridge, the unique Talus Dome, and the scenic Constable Ezio Faraone Park. You might also pass by natural features like Mill Creek Ravine.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in the River Valley Area?
The River Valley Area offers enjoyable urban hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather, and even winter can be beautiful for a crisp walk, especially on well-maintained paths. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Can I spot wildlife while urban hiking in the River Valley Area?
Despite being urban, the River Valley Area's rich ecosystems and varied habitats, from riparian zones to forests, attract a variety of wildlife. You might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals, especially during quieter times of day or in less frequented sections of the trails.
Are there any urban hikes that offer good viewpoints of the River Valley Area?
Many urban trails in the River Valley Area provide excellent viewpoints, often overlooking the river and the city skyline. Trails that traverse bluffs or bridges, such as those near the High Level Bridge, are likely to offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Are there any urban hiking trails that incorporate stairs or more varied terrain?
Yes, some urban hikes in the River Valley Area feature more varied terrain, including stairs. The Wood stairs loop from Garneau is a good example, incorporating stairs into its route for a slightly more dynamic experience. Other trails may include rolling hills and ravines, characteristic of river valley topography.
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