The 10 best ways to explore Edmonton's river valley this summer
According to Kowalchuk, world-famous paleontologist Dr. Philip Currie has noted that dinosaur fossils can be found along the riverbanks, if one knows what to look for. These quiet, wooded paths might seem like simple trails, but they're part of a much older story, shaped by prehistoric life and glacial forces.
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There's also rich Indigenous knowledge embedded in the landscape, Kowalchuk added. Papaschase Cree professor Dr. Dwayne Donald, along with his friend Dale Saddleback, has spoken about the deeper meaning behind the Cree name for the North Saskatchewan River: Kisiskâciwani-sîpiy. While often translated as 'fast-paced river,' it more accurately means 'river that moves at the speed of a fast-paced walk.'
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'And it's true: if you walk next to the river, you will see that this describes it perfectly,' she said.
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Beyond these stories, the City of Edmonton shared even more reasons to be amazed. Spanning more than 20,000 acres, Edmonton's river valley system is the largest urban park network in Canada, Chu noted. You can travel from north to south using only trails, bike paths, or footbridges, connecting places like Northeast River Valley Park to Terwillegar Park without ever leaving green space.
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10. Caring for Edmonton's river valley
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Edmonton's river valley is a treasured natural space, one that both locals and visitors are encouraged to enjoy, while also helping to protect.
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Kowalchuk said the simple but crucial steps everyone can take is to stay on established trails, practice 'leave no trace' principles, and keep dogs on-leash to help preserve the delicate ecosystems within the valley.
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'It is so important that we protect the river valley and ensure our use of it respects the river valley's ecological integrity,' Kowalchuk said.
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Meanwhile, guided by frameworks like the River Valley Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP) and the Ribbon of Green strategy, the City sets policies to protect the environment while providing diverse recreational and cultural experiences, Chu said. These strategies focus on regulating development to maintain the valley's natural integrity, while offering strategic direction to safeguard the river valley and ravine system for future generations.
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The goal is for everyone to appreciate the valley's accessibility and free recreational opportunities, while understanding it's a community treasure that requires collective care.
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'Crucially, the City would want visitors to understand that this is a community treasure – a space everyone shares and has a responsibility to cherish and protect,' she said. 'By recreating safely and respecting the environment, these spaces are kept beautiful for all.'
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Just sit and be
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Finally, one might consider the simplest way to enjoy Edmonton's river valley might be the best way – grab a coffee, find a bench, and just let the wind rustle through the cottonwoods.
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Because in a city always moving forward, locals or tourists alike, the river valley reminds us to slow down and love where we live.
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