Articles

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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.

[caption id="attachment_14451" align="alignnone" width="489"] Hawrelak Park[/caption]

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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[caption id="attachment_14437" align="alignnone" width="472"] Rundle Park[/caption]

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.

https://www.instagram.com/edmontonsummerinthecity/

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Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 9137 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2019-01-17 03:48:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-17 03:48:54 [post_content] =>

Take a city-wide tour of summer’s favourite food on a bun.

Cooked on the barbeque or roasted over a campfire, hot dogs are a summer staple. But you don’t need a grill to get a great dog this season. These restaurants, carts and food trucks are serving up some of the best hot dogs and sausages in the city—meat-lovers rejoice!

Fat Franks     Various locations around the city

If you’re craving a traditional hot dog or smokie, Fat Franks has you covered. With a fleet of street carts and three permanent locations around the city, Fat Franks is the city’s oldest street vendor serving up traditional-style dogs with a few twists for the adventurous.

Featuring: The Reuben Dog: Processed Swiss Cheese, warm caraway sauerkraut and chopped Montreal Smoked meat.

Otto     11405 95 St NW

This funky eatery has fast become known for its assortment of craft sausages. With menu options like the Peruvian—a Latin-inspired sausage with red wine and cumin—and a chicken sausage made with Thai green curry and coconut milk, these sausages go way beyond ketchup and mustard.

Featuring: Beef-Bison with apricot, cranberry and pepitas

MEAT    8216 104 St

It’s no surprise that this trendy smokehouse would have great sausages. In addition to their extensive menu of, well, meat, they offer a full or half-ring of artisan Andouille sausage, crafted by Meuwly’s. With a lineup of sides and original barbeque sauces, your dog is in good company.

 Yeg Burger    15131 121 St

Hidden in a small strip mall near Castledowns in this gem. Hot dogs, corn dogs and a chili cheese dog adorn their menu. Those who live nearby are blessed, those who do not, it's worth the drive. 

Tubby Dogs    1218 8th Street SW, Calgary

Go for a drive to Calgary for these tasty dogs. Promoting itself as a bar that serves dogs, but has no menu online. Why the secrecy? We don't know, but we're going to find out. 

Pub 1905     10525 Jasper Ave

Among the classic pub fare of nachos and pulled pork poutine, you’ll find a menu of gourmet dogs. Available in beef, sausage, or veggie, Pub 1905’s hot dog menu has everything from traditional dogs with a twist to pairings well beyond sauerkraut and mustard–think goat cheese, artichokes, and sundried tomatoes. Plus, there are plenty of other options for friends who aren’t in the mood for a dog today.

Three Vikings   10713 124 Street

Norweigan food at its finest, including Norway's Hot Dog, the Polse. Three Vikings commits to the cause with a European wiener wrapped in a Bonton bun with remoulade, pickle and onion to add to the flavour.  

Did we miss your favourite hot dog place? Tell us all about your favourite in the comments below or share a photo on

https://www.instagram.com/edmontonsummerinthecity/

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A lot of culture with a few beers on the side.

-  Get away from the kids—or the parents—for a few hours with one of these adult-oriented activities. - Travel back in time with a retro-themed festival, play with knives, or grab a drink with a few friends. While not all of these events are strictly for adults, we think they’re best appreciated by mature audiences. - [caption id="attachment_14717" align="alignnone" width="350"] Rockn August[/caption]

1. Admire the classics at Rock‘n August    Aug 8 - 12   St. Albert, AB

Rock’n August remembers the good ol’ days with St. Albert’s own classic car show. With pancake breakfasts, a street dance, and nearly 1000 cars on display, this all-ages event is a blast from the past for nostalgists and Baby Boomers alike. Proceeds from Rock’n August go to the Canadian Diabetes foundation. - 2. Get Cajun eats at DaDeO      10548 a Whyte Ave DaDeO is Edmonton’s New Orleans style diner and bar—for adults only. Smack dab in the heart of Whyte Ave, this retro, 50’s style diner offers the best po’boys around. Slide into a vinyl booth and order up your favourite creole dish, take in the lively ambiance, and experience a little slice of the Pelican State. . 3. Take pictures at the Neon Sign Museum     104 St, south of 104 Ave Edmonton’s history in neon signs can be seen lighting up the night every evening on 104 Street. Snap some photos at this free outdoor spectacle before heading over to a nearby eatery, bar, or Roger’s Place for some appies and drinks. Find it on Google maps here . 4. Partake in Pub Trivia       Various locations around the city There are several pubs and bars around the city that host trivia nights. Some, like The Buckingham offer weekly trivia events, while others host special trivia events more sporadically often revolving around a pop culture theme. . 5. Check out Improvaganza        Get ready to laugh—a lot. Improvaganza is an international improv and sketch comedy festival unleashing some of the world’s funniest people onto our city for ten days in June. While not an “adult only” event, much of the comedy is geared toward young adult audiences. . 6. Throw axes at the Rec Room       1725 99 St A lively way to spend the evening with friends or a date, axe throwing is step 1 in your zombie survival training. Sharpen your throwing skills with help from the Rec Room’s coaches, and battle it out with your friends over the title of axe champion. This is an 18+ event. . 7. Have dinner and drinks at A Taste of Edmonton      July 20–July 30 There’s no better way to find a new favourite restaurant than at Edmonton’s largest food festival. At A Taste of Edmonton, restaurants from around the city offer visitors small portions of their best menu items for a few bucks each. While this is an all-ages event, adults can escape to the kid-free beer gardens before tasting their way through the Capital City.  . 8. Explore the nightlife on Whyte Ave Whyte Avenue is a bustling centre for nightlife. Whether you’re looking to grab a couple of pints at a pub, or dance the night away, there are plenty of bars, clubs and eateries open late in to the night on this lively Ave. [post_title] => Top 8 Things to Do if You’re over 18 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => top-8-over-18 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-20 20:21:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-21 02:21:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=9174 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => A lot of culture with a few beers on the side. –  Get away from the kids—or the parents—for a few hours with one of these adult-oriented activities. – Travel … ) 1

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A subtle stigma once surrounded the lowly gift card—some considered it a “lazy” gift, requiring little forethought. This attitude has been shifting consistently over the last decade as the popularity of online shopping continues to grow. Today, gift cards are one of Canadians’ most requested gifts, with anincreasing number of tech-savvy consumers even favouring the purely digital forms. Here, we review some tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your purchase.

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Skip the Holiday Hustle

When it comes to gift cards, the benefits to the giver are obvious—just ask anyone who’s ever scoured through a hectic holiday shopping mall for hours, unable to find the perfect present for a hard-to-buy-for friend. But there are plenty of benefits for recipients, as well. Gift cards allow people to purchase exactly what they want, saving them the hassle of keeping gift receipts and returning duplicate or unwanted presents to the store. Research on shopping trends also indicates that many consumers who use gift cards spend up to double the value of the card at because it provides them an opportunity to splurge on something special that they would likely not have purchased otherwise. With more and more cards available for online use, there’s also the convenience of shopping from home; simply enter the card code at checkout, and wait for the goods to be delivered.

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Make It Personal

A little creativity can add a special personal touch to the standard gift card experience. Most established businesses offer some form of card, so instead of opting for the generalized, all-inclusive Visa, first consider your recipient. How do they spend their time? What might they want to learn? Foodies may love exploring new restaurants or participating in cooking classes. Give your creative friend with a card to a craft supply store or entry to an art museum. There are cards to suit bookworms and techies and sports enthusiasts. They can often be redeemed for classes or activities, like snowboarding lessons or tickets to the movies. Still not sure? Consider where they are in life. Are they a struggling university student? Give them a card to the local supermarket. Did they just buy their first house? Home outfitting stores are where it’s at. Do they have children? Buy them a card to use towards house-cleaning services, meal assembly and delivery programs, or a date night out (bonus points if you offer to babysit!). Then, think about delivery. Handmade envelopes and gift boxes, candy-filled Mason jars, stuffed animals, decorated picture frames…there are hundreds of unique ways to customize your gift.

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Discounted Dealings

Once a gift card is purchased, it cannot be returned to the business for cash. For this reason, people sometimes try to sell their unwanted gift cards at a lower price online. A fifty-dollar card might be sold for as low as thirty-five; the discount offers an incentive to buyers who would otherwise purchase the cards at full price from a certified source. This type of transaction can certainly help you save money, but it does require caution. To avoid getting scammed by unscrupulous sellers posing as innocent re-gifters, only buy discounted gift cards from verified sites. Dedicated websites like Cardpool.com and Giftcards.com offer more security than personal sales sites like Craigslist or Kijiji. Always check the companies’ policies—look for websites that guarantee their gift cards after purchase and provide refunds for unused cards. Read through customer feedback, and only use sellers with high approval ratings. Add an extra measure of security by purchasing all discounted gift cards with a credit card. The insurance will keep you covered in the case of a fraudulent transaction.

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Buyer Beware

When buying gift cards in person, it’s generally better to get them from customer service agents instead of public sales racks that are accessed by many shoppers. Examine cards for signs of tampering, making sure the hidden activation code on the back has not been exposed in any way. When buying cards online, purchase them directly from a store’s official website; it will usually offer increased security measures.

Before you buy, read the fine print. Some cards have activation fees that need to be paid upon purchase. In Alberta, gift cards with a specific monetary value are considered to be like cash; they cannot be taxed or given an expiry date. Gift certificates that are redeemed for a service without an established dollar amount (e.g. “good for one manicure”) are not subject to these regulations. Always determine if there is an expiry date or any additional conditions ahead of time. It’s also important to buy only from reputable, long-standing businesses—consumers who purchase gift cards from small companies that go out of business can do little to recover their losses. Lastly, never use random websites that claim to verify the balance leftover on your card. Call the number printed on the back and speak to an agent in person.

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Give & Give Again

For a different take on the all-purpose present, consider a subscription. This latest trend is the gift that keeps on giving, and the possibilities for it go far beyond the standard monthly magazine. One option is the online membership, where recipients can access different types of classes, movie sites, or book and podcast libraries, often on an unlimited basis, for a specified time period. Also popular is the subscription box club, where members receive a unique gift delivered to their door once a month. There are sock clubs, fragrance clubs—even snack clubs. Some are for lovers of coffee, spices, bourbon or tea. There are specialized boxes to suit

any interest starting at just a handful of dollars per month. Just make sure to always double-check pricing; some luxury subscription box providers advertise a monthly price instead of a yearly one, and costs can add up quickly if you’re not paying attention.  t8n

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Simplified Shopping

Go online to get dozens of unique subscription box ideas for the loved ones in your life. http://www.mysubscriptionaddiction.com/category/subscription-box-gift-ideas categorizes subscriptions based on interests to simplify the selection process. Find great options for kids, parents, pet lovers, sports nuts, artists, foodies, beauty queens…just try to resist subscribing to them yourself!

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Did You Know?

An estimated 1 billion dollars in gift cards goes unused every year. You can donate full or partially used gift cards to charitable organizations that match them with individual needs. Even minute amounts add up enough to make a difference, and many charities will provide a tax receipt for the value of the card.

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History shows that picnics have been nourishing us long before we had a word for it—and in more ways than one.

. Whether it’s in a scenic rural destination, a city park, or just your own backyard, there’s something special about enjoying food outside with your favourite people. Besides being a great opportunity to socialize, picnics are a celebration of nature and green spaces. And they’re healthy for us, too—the fresh air and vitamin D from sunshine helps lower blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol. (Remember this as you’re helping yourself to that second piece of lemonmeringue pie. You’re welcome). Even the word “picnic” conjures pleasing images: woven baskets, a checkered blanket, spreads of delicious food, grassy fields, family, friends, sunshine, scenery… maybe a few ants. It’s all part of the fun. According to the 2012 Canadian Nature Survey, “picnicking or relaxing in nature” is the most popular outdoor activity in the country, with 71% of respondents (78% in Alberta) having done so the previous year. In short, we like our picnics. But is it possible that life in the fast lane could make picnics a nostalgic thing of the past? At a time when families are busier than ever, and in an age of distraction (digital or otherwise), it can be too easy to retreat indoors and into ourselves, even when the sunshine is calling. The effort of dropping everything to carve out time in the day, packing up the kids, prepping the food, choosing a site that’s relatively quiet and comfortable—it can all seem like too much of a bother. But the chance to unwind and unplug is all the more reason to set aside time and mental space for a meal outdoors. It’s an ideal way to slow down, live in the moment, get grounded, and create authentic, lasting memories.

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You Say Tomato… (history of the word Picnic)

We’ve been picnicking longer than we’ve had a term for it—at least in English. The word comes from the French pique-nique, which first appeared in the late 17th century and may have been derived from piquer, which means “to pick” and nique, “a little thing.” In both English and French, the term originally described an indoor group meal, often over cards, conversation, and wine, where upper-crust attendees each contributed something to the meal. (Today, we might call this a potluck.) So when did picnicking move outdoors and become a “thing” in its own right? Well, another theory is that the word comes from pique un niche, which means “pick a place” (with the insinuation being outdoors). Regardless, the picnic we know today—a relaxed group meal outside—took off in the 1800s when people of all classes started making outdoor meals a leisurely pursuit. But even as far back as the Middle Ages, wealthy people around the world were feasting alfresco (Italian for “in the cool air”), even if they didn’t have a proper word for it at the time. Then, as now, the eating often accompanied some other activity. In Europe, an elaborate feast might follow a hunt. Tapestries and other artwork from the period depict elegant multi-course meals at clothed tables attended by servants, replete with conversation, musical entertainment, and age-old drunken merriment. In East Asia, food and drink accompanied flower viewing parties, where people would gather to admire plum and cherry blossoms in the spring. This gave rise to the Japanese idiom hana yori dango, or “dumplings over flowers,” implying the real purpose of these parties wasn’t actually the scenery, but the food. .

Under the Cherry Blossoms

A St. Albert mother of two, we’ll call her Megumi, talks about what defines a picnic for her. She’s Japanese, her husband is from France, and they regularly visit both countries with their children. While she’s enjoyed many outdoor meals outside of Canada, she’s a little unsure at first when asked about her picnicking habits in St. Albert. “I guess I do because I take my kids to the spray park and we eat there. That’s picnicking, right?” she asks with a laugh. “It feels good being out in the open air, and looking at nature, and enjoying the sun.” Megumi’s earliest memories of picnicking are infused with cherry blossoms. Those flower-viewing outings we mentioned earlier, known as hanami, were a staple of her childhood in Japan. “I guess it’s something I grew up with,” she says, looking back. “Every year we did that. It’s more like a festival, like Christmas. It’s the same feeling.” The centuries-old tradition is still very popular in Japan and Korea, as ornamental add hyphen: cherry-tree-lined streets and parks explode in riots of pink and white every spring. Though the scenery is certainly something to see, it’s often the outdoor meal amid all of that natural beauty that draws out the experience and makes it more memorable. On such outings, bento boxes take the place of picnic baskets. The food in these packed meals can vary, but often include rice, pickled vegetables, and fish or meat. As Megumi notes, the food often reflects the time of year: “Japanese people really care about the four seasons,” she explains. “Every season has different ingredients.” Hanami bentos feature spring vegetables, like bamboo shoots, and plenty of pink: think salmon or shrimp sushi, or dyed rice dumplings. “That’s how we appreciate spring and the arrival of the cherry blossoms.” .

Under the Tuscan Sun (and Hwy 401)

Anyone who has spent a beautiful day longingly looking out of an office or school window, wishing they were out there, knows the pull of a picnic. It may simply be a matter of getting back to our roots. Picnics bring together friends and family, the outdoors, sunshine, games, a good time, great food—and in the process touch on something deeper. This is what Tina Powell, author of Picnic in Pisticci, calls a “longing for a simpler time.” The Toronto-based author was inspired to write her book ahead of a visit to southern Italy, her family’s hometown. Already a lifelong fan of picnics, she thought a picnic there would be a good idea. “This got me thinking about all the wonderful picnics I had enjoyed and the valuable lessons I had learned while picnicking,” Powell explained. That’s not to say that a picnic ought to be a learning experience, but rather that these unassuming outings have a power over us that is more affecting than we realize—they help shape us and create memories that stay with us for a lifetime. Powell’s picnic in southern Italy, in contrast to Megumi’s cherry blossoms, was perhaps less picturesque, but just as memorable. Having to contend with 40°C heat and a dearth of shade trees or grass in the ancient town, her party eventually sat down for a meal of crusty rolls, Italian meats and cheeses, watermelon, and wine in a neglected municipal park… and they had a great time. The experience paralleled one of Powell’s childhood picnics where the setting couldn’t be more different: a fly-plagued berm alongside a busy off-ramp in Ontario. Not as romantic as the Italian countryside, but it was still a fun experience she would never forget.

Transcending Culture

While we don’t recommend grassy berms beside highways, the beauty of a picnic is that it’s a simple activity, and one that can be enjoyed almost anywhere. Aside from regional variations in food, the season, and the scenery, picnicking is essentially the same the world over. In the end, it’s the ingredients that make the dish. “It’s friends and family getting together and enjoying nature,” says Megumi. It’s a sentiment that Powell agrees with: “In my experience, picnicking transcends all cultures.” In a world that seems to be moving ever faster, there’s something replenishing about going offline and slowing down, even for just a few hours, and a picnic is the perfect excuse to do just that. Powell notes, “I am a firm believer that today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world needs more picnics.” Even with 1,500 words, we couldn’t have said it better. t8n

What a Difference a Place Makes

Looking for somewhere to take your next picnic? Check out any of these local parks. Lions Park Play structures, swings, outdoor fitness equipment, tables, firepits, and two shelters that can be reserved for large groups. (Go early and stake out your pit if you intend to grill.) Red Willow Park A picturesque riverside setting near Woodlands Water Play Park with a spray park, play structure, skate park, and nearby ‘beach’ volleyball courts. Kingswood Day Area A quieter patch with plenty of grass for picnicking, plus hiking and birding opportunities at the adjacent Riverlot 56. Riel Recreation Park Equipped with tables and firepits, perfect for a post-game picnic. [post_title] => Picnics [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => picnics [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-05-31 19:45:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-06-01 01:45:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=9091 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => History shows that picnics have been nourishing us long before we had a word for it—and in more ways than one. . Whether it’s in a scenic rural destination, a … ) 1

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Our homegrown wilderness wonderland -

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There’s something so special about a bright, beautiful July day. Maybe it’s the warmth of the sun, the gentle summer breeze or the smell of freshly cut grass, but we feel nature all around us. We yearn to escape the city’s hectic pace, forget our troubles and take in the outdoors—even if only for a few hours.

A short drive from Edmonton, we find Elk Island National Park. Picturesque and just plain awesome, this 194-square-kilometre park is a Canadian wilderness wonderland. Whether you’re looking for adventure, seeking serenity or thirsting for knowledge, a trip to Elk Island National Park is an experience you’ll surely savour. And with Canada’s 150th birthday just behind us, there’s no better excuse to get out and explore one of our country’s natural marvels. Here we go behind the scenes at Elk Island National Park. Take a look! Here’s something so special about a bright, beautiful July day. Maybe it’s the warmth of the sun, the gentle summer breeze or the smell of freshly cut grass, but we feel nature all around us. We yearn to escape the city’s hectic pace, forget our troubles and take in the outdoors—even if only for a few hours.

The Elk Island story begins in 1906, when five Albertans from Fort Saskatchewan convinced the Canadian government to create a wildlife sanctuary for elk, which were being wiped out by hunters. “Elk Park,” a 42-square-kilometre area around what is now Astotin Lake, became Canada’s first federally run, big-game sanctuary. Since then, Elk Island National Park has become Canada’s largest, fully fenced national park. According to Robyn O’Neill, Partnering, Engagement & Communications Officer for Elk Island National Park (at time of interview), the park has not only grown in size but also in its conservation efforts.

“We are well-known for our very crucial role in the conservation of the plains bison—the species was nearly lost forever. But we’ve also done other conservation work, such as with wood bison and the trumpeter swan. We are very proud of our heritage here at Elk Island.”

Today, Elk Island National Park is not only a refuge for animals but also for people. “Hiking, biking and walking are really big out here,” says O’Neill. “We have 80 kilometres of trail. A nice short one is Living Waters Boardwalk, or you can go for 18.6 kilometres on the Wood Bison Trail.” According to O’Neill, geocaching is also a popular activity at the park. [gallery ids="8980,8982"]

“We have 11 geocaching sites hidden around the park. Visitors can pick up supplies at the Visitor Centre, free of charge.”

If you want to get off the land and into the water, look to Astotin Lake. “Lots of canoeing and kayaking happen on Astotin Lake,” says O’Neill. “You can bring your own equipment or rent it on-site from Haskin Canoe Rentals.” Of all the fun activities to enjoy, O’Neill says watching the wildlife is one of her highlights. “If seeing a bison isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. It’s truly a majestic creature. And Elk Island is also a bird-lover’s paradise. We have over 250 species of birds at the park. Everything from ducks and geese to rare birds like the great crested flycatcher and the broad-winged hawk.” When you visit Elk Island National Park, the beauty around you is apparent. Look a little closer; however, and you’ll appreciate all the work that happens behind the scenes. The park has a dedicated team of interpreters, conservation experts, asset-management specialists, maintenance and administrative staff and so many more.

“It takes a variety of people and all kinds of roles to keep the park running. Ultimately, wildlife and visitor-safety are the most important things to us,” says O’Neill.

With wildlife roaming freely, tons of outdoorsy activities to try and so much to learn and explore, what are you waiting for? It’s time to experience Elk Island National Park! Elk Island National Park  Trail Conditions Choose your trail Easy

• Beaver Pond Trail 
• Hayburger Trail
• Lakeview Trail
• Living Waters Boardwalk Trail 
• Shoreline Trail: Beaver Bay Loop
• Shoreline Trail: Elk Island Loop
• Shoreline Tail : Shoreline Trail
• Tawayik Lake Trail : Oster Lake Trail

Moderate

• Amisk Wushe Trail
• Moss Lake Trail
• Shirley Lake Trail
• Simmons Trail

Difficult

• Tawayik Lake Trail : Tawayik Lake Trail
• Wood Bison Trail

[post_title] => Elk Island National Park [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => elk-island-national-park [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-20 10:07:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-20 16:07:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=8978 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => Our homegrown wilderness wonderland – . There’s something so special about a bright, beautiful July day. Maybe it’s the warmth of the sun, the gentle summer breeze or the smell … ) 1

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Exploring our ribbon of green

The nation’s largest expanse of urban parkland lies right here in Edmonton. The River Valley parks form an unbroken “ribbon of green,” stretching 48 km and covering 18,000 acres. The River Valley provides Edmontonians with an array of activities and events, especially during the summer months. Here’s what the River Valley has to offer you. .

 

Take in a Festival

Edmonton is a city with many titles: “Festival City” and “River City” to name a couple. It only seems natural to combine these two features when we can, giving Edmontonians the best of both worlds. Many of the River Valley festivals allow patrons to escape the city noise, enjoy the beauty of nature, and enjoy hours of music and culture. The Valley hosts a variety of music festivals to match just about any taste: The Edmonton Folk Music Festival comes to Gallagher Park every August; and the Edmonton Rock Music Festival, Interstellar Rodeo and Symphony Under the Sky can all be found in Hawrelak Park. During the summer, Harwelak Park also welcomes thespians and lovers of theatre as it hosts the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. You can enjoy (or critique) modern takes on the bard’s most famous plays. It’s also home to the popular Heritage Festival—a celebration of diversity and the cross-cultural bonds we share. . . . Hit the Trails and Rails An extensive network of trails criss-cross the River Valley, providing over 160 km of exploration for walkers, joggers and cyclists alike. They range from busy, paved routes to narrow, hard-packed trails that see little traffic. They form a nearly unbroken link across the city as you can travel from Hermitage Park in the northeast to the Fort Edmonton Footbridge in the southwest without ever leaving the River Valley. For those seeking something less intense, there are other transportation options. From May to October, the High Level Bridge Streetcar uses the former CPR tracks and a fleet of restored electric streetcars that ferry travellers from Jasper Plaza to Old Strathcona for $6 round-trip. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s new funicular whisks people (for free) from 100th Street down Grierson Hill and into Louise McKinney Riverfront Park—a great option for anyone daunted by the multitude of stairs leading from downtown to the river. High Level Bridge Streetcar:  . .

Take a Tour

Exploration can be its own reward, but for the uninitiated, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to start. Luckily, the River Valley boasts a number of tours as a starting point. For those looking to experience the River Valley’s natural beauty, try River Valley Adventure Co. They offer hour-long Segway tours that allow everyone from beginner to advanced, including those with limited mobility, to travel the trails. If history is more your niche, there’s a tour for that, too. Every day at the Legislature Building, you can join a guided tour to learn about Albertan history and politics. For those wanting to explore Edmonton’s settler history, make sure you take a tour of Fort Edmonton Park this summer, which is currently undergoing renovations, so many aspects of this tour will be unavailable. River Valley Adventure Legislative Assembly of Alberta .

Get Natural

Besides fresh air and great vistas, the River Valley is an obvious choice for viewing nature. The John Janzen Nature Centre is located by Fort Edmonton Park. It offers nature-themed programs and day camps for children. There are also two easy nature walks nearby that feature many native trees and shrubs. The Birch Tree Trail takes about 20 minutes, while the 3 km-long River Loop Trail encircles Fort Edmonton. For more of a wilderness feel, try the numerous ravines connected to the River Valley. Whitemud Creek Ravine is reported to have the highest diversity of plants and animals in the city, as there’s an old growth forest and over 150 species of birds. Mill Creek Ravine is easily accessible from Whyte Avenue; it’s a great place to birdwatch where you may just catch a glimpse of a boreal owl. John Janzen Nature Centre .

Enjoy the Water

The North Saskatchewan River has always been an important feature of our city. For early settlers, it was the only mode of transportation for trade, making it Edmonton’s lifeline to the outside world. Now, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Valley by water. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can drive a watercraft of choice to the town of Devon and spend the day gently floating back home; just make sure you have a way to get back to your car afterwards. The river is also a great place for recreational fishing. With a valid licence, you can catch over eight species of fish in the river, though health advisories recommend against eating them. Want to catch your dinner? Head to Hermitage Park where you can cast your line into one of many stocked ponds. . [post_title] => River Valley Fun [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => river-valley-fun [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-20 09:07:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-20 15:07:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=8986 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => Exploring our ribbon of green The nation’s largest expanse of urban parkland lies right here in Edmonton. The River Valley parks form an unbroken “ribbon of green,” stretching 48 km … ) 1

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It’s not a pot of gold, but we did find these dazzling gems at the end of the rainbow

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Having hidden in plain sight at the end of the light spectrum all this time, the vibrant and confident shade of violet is now getting its due. The experts at the Pantone Color Institute have crowned it the 2018 Color of the Year (Pantone 18-3838 Ultra Violet to be exact), praising its “originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking.” Okay. With that in mind, here are some ideas to light up your summer with this year’s trendiest colour. [metaslider id=9012] [gallery ids="9011,9008,9007"] [post_title] => Ultra Violet [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => ultra-violet [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-05-31 18:57:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-06-01 00:57:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=9003 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => It’s not a pot of gold, but we did find these dazzling gems at the end of the rainbow — Having hidden in plain sight at the end of the … ) 1