6 Edmonton Trails: Edmonton Hiking & Walking Trails [2024]

In addition to over 1,000 parks, the city of Edmonton has more than 160 kilometres of multi-use trails for walking, running, hiking, biking, and in some cases, horseback riding. This city is one of the sunniest in Canada, so plenty of opportunities exist year-round to enjoy these trails and other outdoor activities in Edmonton. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a quick walk for some exercise, here are six of the best neighbourhood trails in Edmonton, Alberta.

Whitemud Creek Trail

Whitemud Creek Trail is an easy 6.8-kilometre out-and-back suitable for all ages. It weaves through the Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve 10 kilometres south of downtown Edmonton, close to the Aspen Gardens community and Ogilvie Ridge neighbourhood. The trail, consisting of gravel and dirt, dips through dense patches of old-growth forest that provide habitat for 150 species of birds and other wildlife.

Allow two hours for the hike, including a couple of breaks, or factor in more time for a picnic and birdwatching. Dogs are welcome at Whitemud Creek but must remain on a leash. Ample parking is available at the Whitemud Park lot, just off Rainbow Valley Road.

William Hawrelak Park Riverside Walk

Just 4 kilometres from the heart of Edmonton, William Hawrelak Park Riverside Walk is one of Edmonton's most popular neighbourhood trails. It's close to those living in downtown Edmonton condos, the South Central area, the Windsor Park community, and the Queen Alexandra neighbourhood.

With a broad path and an elevation gain of 70 metres, the trail is easy for most fitness levels and manageable for children. Exploring with a stroller is possible, but there are several staircases along the path. Plan for about an hour for a brisk walk, or soak up the scenery from one of the many benches or picnic sites in William Hawrelak Park, one of the best parks in Edmonton.

While the conditions are excellent for walking, this loop trail is also well-suited for cyclists. Dogs are also welcome, provided they remain leashed. The park is beautiful in all seasons, but fall is especially striking as the colours turn.

Terwillegar Park Perimeter Loop

The Terwillegar Park Perimeter Loop is one of the easier hiking trails in Edmonton and, understandably, one of the most popular. As its name implies, the trail circles Terwillegar Park. It also has beautiful views over the North Saskatchewan River and is especially convenient for residents of the Terwillegar Towne community, Falconer Heights neighbourhood, and the community of Henderson Estates. A large parking lot is at the end of Rabbit Hill Road.

Coming in at 4.2 kilometres, it takes about one hour to complete the loop at an average pace. The trail is a mixture of dirt and gravel, and a few small and medium-sized hills account for an elevation of 80.8 metres.

Walking the Terwillegar Park Perimeter Loop is one of Edmonton's most dog-friendly activities. Dogs are allowed off-leash, provided they're kept under their owners' control.

Mactaggart Sanctuary Path

Magrath Heights Park picks up where the Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve left off in South Edmonton. Within this complex, the Mactaggart Sanctuary Path is one of Edmonton's more moderate neighbourhood trails.

While the short 2.6-kilometre trail features minimal elevation gain, the terrain is somewhat rugged. Come prepared for a series of small hills, rocky sections, and muddy patches in the heart of Southwest Edmonton.

There's also a washed-out bridge to traverse along the trail, rigged with ladders and ropes to assist in scaling. Leashed dogs are welcome, but note that you'll need to get them across these sections. Plan for 30 minutes to one hour to complete this trail.

Beaumaris Lake Trail

Lying 11 kilometres (7 miles) north of downtown in the Edmonton suburb of Castle Downs, the Beaumaris Lake Trail is a short and sweet hike. The trail is 2.7 kilometres with practically no elevation gain, requiring around 40 minutes to complete.

The surrounding trees and shrubs are a visual treat during fall and spring, and the lake never fails to charm wildlife enthusiasts, as it's home to waterfowl, including geese, ducks, and pelicans.

In addition to walkers, the lake trail is popular with runners and cyclists. Fully paved, this is one of the best neighbourhood trails in Edmonton for those with strollers or wheelchairs. Leashed dogs are welcome on the path.

Parking is available at the Lakeside Landing complex, which is brimming with vibrant restaurants, cafes, and stores—it's easy to make a day of it in this area.

MacKinnon Ravine

The MacKinnon Ravine Park sits just across the river from William Hawrelak Park on the northern shore and is very close to downtown. The MacKinnon Ravine is an out-and-back trail comprising 16 kilometres with an elevation gain of 205 metres. Despite those somewhat intimidating stats, this is not a challenging trail and is appropriate for most fitness levels.

Factor in at least 3.5 hours to complete the route due to the trail's longer length. Allow a little extra time to soak up the views and enjoy a picnic because this is one of Edmonton's most scenic neighbourhood trails with skyline views of the city.

The paved multi-use path is also shared with cyclists, and mountain bikers can turn their attention to the dedicated blue-grade bike track in the park. Leashed dogs are welcome. The parking lot is at the east end of MacKinnon Ravine Park, along with the restrooms.

Connect With Edmonton's Nature on These Neighbourhood Trails

With such an abundance of dedicated green spaces and trails, those who call Edmonton home enjoy convenient access to both downtown amenities and nature's tranquillity. If you wanted to, you could be on the trails within minutes of clocking out of work and home before dinnertime!