Conquer the River Valley
Why just visit the vast expanse of urban parkland known as the North Saskatchewan River Valley when you can conquer it? We've rounded up a list of some of the best local businesses that call the river valley home. Start with a walk, run, or cycle through over 150KM of trails just waiting to be discovered, then stop in at one of these attractions, restaurants or experiences and get away from it all, without ever leaving the city. Your summer bucket list starts here!
No matter how you choose to explore, be sure to continue practicing safe spatial distancing, frequent hand washing and following the guidelines put in place to keep everyone safe!
Snow Valley Aerial Park
See Edmonton from a bird's eye view at the Snow Valley Aerial Park! This incredible tower of obstacles and games is the first of its kind in Canada and 3rd in North America. If you are a hardcore climber, go test yourself on the black “Ninja warrior” course. If you are a first-timer and afraid of heights, there are many exciting games on the first level (a little closer to the ground!).
The park follows physical distancing rules, belay systems are disinfected and dried between each participant and there is hand sanitizer available at each tower of the park. Be sure to book in advance!
Big E Tours
Explore the city with Big E Tours! Ride in comfort with “Eddie”, the 24-person passenger bus with big windows, comfortable chairs and air conditioning. Delve into the rich history of Edmonton as you traverse our beautiful river valley and visit the main attractions and architectural gems. Don't miss the newest edition to their suite of offerings, the Prairie Sky Powerplant Tour, that showcases the historic Rossdale Powerplant nestled within the river valley.
The bus will allow for a space between each rider and plenty of hand sanitizer!
Edmonton Regional Helicopter Tours
With Edmonton Regional Helicopter Tours, “getting away from it all” takes on a new meaning as colourful landscapes reveal a new personality in every season. Enjoy panoramic views and unforgettable perspectives. Your expedition begins at the Executive Flight Centre at Edmonton International Airport. Before you know it, poof! You're high above the city. Within minutes of departure, you'll follow Edmonton’s river valley as it winds its way to the city's core.
Edmonton Canoe
Experience the beauty of Edmonton's river valley from a unique vantage point! Paddle your way along the North Saskatchewan River spotting wildlife, and taking in Edmonton's beautiful skyline with Edmonton Canoe. You'll enjoy the serenity of this water adventure and may even be lucky enough to hear the distant cry of a loon or splash of a beaver. They'll supply your booked canoe rental or kayak rental and all equipment you need for the trip, including personal floating devices in every size. No paddling experience is necessary!
Little Brick Cafe & General Store
Little Brick is a charming cafe in an old brick house built in 1903 in the heart of the river valley. It's the former family home of J.B. Little, the owner of the brickyard that used to call the area home and provided bricks to Edmonton's most historical buildings (a replica of J.B. Little's Brickyard is set up on 1920 street at Fort Edmonton Park). The house is now a cozy cafe with a tastebud-tempting menu, general store and event space with offices upstairs. Make this your first stop and discover river valley trails with a coffee and artisanal sandwich in hand (on freshly baked bread!).
Culina on the Lake
Located in the heart of Hawrelak Park, Culina on the Lake offers up tasty items that will put any picnic to shame. Relax on their licensed lakeside patio, enjoy a cold one paired with a burger or gourmet hot dog and you've got yourself a perfect picturesque afternoon. Just head to the pavilion in the centre of the park! Once you're fuelled up, you'll be ready to enjoy a game of Frisbee or to explore the many trails that wind through one of Edmonton's most beautiful parks.
River Valley Adventure Co.
Visiting Edmonton's river valley but only brought your walking shoes? River Valley Adventure Co., located in the heart of the river valley, is where you can find Segway tours, mountain bike rentals, stand up paddle boarding, and sports equipment just waiting to be put to good use.
Edmonton’s river valley is 22 times the size of New York's central park, with over 150 km of trails. Perfect for running, biking, snow shoeing and cross-country skiing.