Top 10 Outdoor Recreation Spots

Pack a blanket, a picnic lunch, and enjoy the great outdoors.

The city and surrounding area is filled with beautiful parks, gardens and nature reserves, and there’s no better time to explore them than during summer. Hike in the city’s river valley, admire the cultivated gardens or glimpse an elk or bison over lunch. Edmonton and area’s top summer spots are waiting for your next outdoor adventure or tranquil walk in the park.

Hawrelak Park

1. William Hawrelak Park       9330 Groat Rd NW

Packed with picnic spots, plenty of open green space and a man-made lake, Hawkrelak Park should make every local family’s summer to-do list. Centrally located in Edmonton’s river valley, it is easily accessible by car or public transit and plays host to a variety of summer festivals including the Freewill Shakespeare Festival and Symphony Under the Sky. Bring a football, Frisbee, or badminton rackets for a fun-filled afternoon in the park.

NOTE HAWRELAK PARK IS CLOSED IN 2023, 24, 25. 

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2. Elk Island National Park      54401 Range Rd 203    Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Elk Island National Park is an Alberta treasure. Located approximately 30 minutes East of Edmonton, the park is a wildlife oasis for bison, elk, and birds. Bring a blanket and enjoy a quiet day away from the hustle and bustle of the city, or strap on a backpack and hit the trails. You can also visit the interactive Astotin theatre, rent a kayak, or check out their seasonal programs.

• Adult  $8.50
• Senior  $7.25
• Youth  Free
• Family/ Group  $16.75

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U of A Botanic Garden

3. U of A Botanic Garden     51227 AB-60      Parkland County, AB

The University of Alberta Botanic Garden, formerly known as the Devonian Gardens, is a 240-acre collection of carefully cultivated themed gardens including the Kurimoto Japanese Garden and the new Aga Khan Garden. Explore flora, fauna, and family fun just 15 minutes southwest of the city.

10 am to 10 pm daily

• Adult $18.75
• Senior (65+)  $12.75
• Student  $9.50
• Youth (13-17)  $9.50
• Child (3-12)  $5.00
• Child 2 and under | free

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4. St. Albert Botanic Park      265 Sturgeon Rd      St. Albert, AB

This five-acre garden is perfect for locals with an appreciation of Alberta plants. Hosting a variety of themed gardens including the famous Rose Garden, Crabapple Lane, and cozy Cottage Garden, the Botanic Park is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon.

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5. 100 Street Funicular      10065 100 St NW

The River Valley Funicular provides mechanized access to the river valley for people of all ages and abilities. The Funicular operates like an elevator and can fit up to 20 people inside. Take a scenic trip down into the river valley for a hike or picnic before walking across the promenade to the lookout point.

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Rundle Park

6. Rundle Park            2909 113 Ave, NW

Located on the northeast side of Edmonton, Rundle Park is a beautiful multi-use area with trails, sports fields and a Frisbee golf course. There are six sites available for reservation, and many more sites available on a first come-first served basis, making it a great location for family functions and birthday parties.

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7. John Janzen Nature Centre         7000 143 St

Go on a nature adventure at the John Janzen Nature Centre. Learn about composting, look in on a real bee hive, get up close and personal with pond life and explore Edmonton’s natural flora and fauna. On rainy days, kids can explore re-created wildlife habitats in the Tegler Discovery Zone.

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8. Victoria Park         12030 River Valley Rd NW

This park runs alongside the north bank of the North Saskatchewan, and is known for its walking and cycling trails. Play a family game of softball or cricket before enjoying a picnic lunch or barbeque at one of the park’s picnic sites.

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9. Alberta Legislature         10800 97 Ave NW

Walk through the grounds and explore the site’s many fountains and gardens. Bring a swimsuit for the wading pool, and spread out under one of the historic trees for a picnic. Visit the brand new visitor’s centre on your way in, or take a guided tour of the provincial building, which run every run every hour.

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10. Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park      1 Ray Gibbon Drive, St. Albert, AB

Running along the western edge of St. Albert and Edmonton, the Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park is filled with possibilities for your next family adventure. Big Lake takes up more than half of the park’s area, making it a hub for waterfowl, swans and other birds. Take a pair of binoculars and see what you can spot from the boardwalk, and enjoy your walk through this tranquil marshland.

Share your stories of your favourite outdoor spot in the comments below. Also, tell us about some of your favourites that we missed, and you can share your shots of both on our Instagram feed.

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