Free guide: 25 hikes near Montreal
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Hawrelak Park, Edmonton & Area

Hiking near Edmonton

Pick your drive. Save time for the trail.

41 trails within 2 hr of Edmonton by car. Compare the drive, the walking time and the level to choose your next outing.

Photo : Hawrelak Park

Starting from: Edmonton city centre
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Maximum one-way drive
With my dog

Drive times are estimates (≈) from the city centre, as the crow flies. Walking time comes from the trail page when it has one; a walking filter hides trails without a duration.

Hiking ideas near Edmonton

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Hawrelak Park trail - hiking in Edmonton & Area

Drive ≈ 5 min Walk 1 hr

Hawrelak Park

Explore 3.4 km of paved trails circling an artificial lake in Edmonton's river valley—a 45-minute easy walk that feels genuinely…

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Wood Bison Trail trail - hiking in Lakelands

Drive ≈ 52 min

Wood Bison Trail

Spot wood bison in their natural habitat on this 16 km trail through Elk Island National Park, just 45 minutes east of Edmonton.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Wabamun Lake Provincial Park trail - hiking in Edmonton & Area

Drive ≈ 1 hr 15 min Walk 1 hr 15 min

Wabamun Lake Provincial Park

Just one hour west of Edmonton, this 3.5 km easy trail loops through aspen parkland and boreal forest with genuine wildlife…

Dogs allowed

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Trails near Edmonton

8 trails shown out of 41
Muir Lake trail - hiking in Edmonton & Area

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

  • Check access

    Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

  • Check the weather at the destination

    Changing weather can make some trails harder.

  • Choose your route

    Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

No car?

Without a car, an outing takes more planning. Some destinations near Edmonton may be served by public transit, but none of our trail pages lists it yet.

Check schedules and the last return trip with the transit agency before you go.

See the frequently asked questions

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring hiking around Edmonton typically begins in late April to May when snow melts and temperatures rise to 10-20°C.

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The North Saskatchewan River Valley trails offer excellent muddy season hiking, though waterproof boots are essential due to wet conditions and potential flooding. Start with shorter urban trails as daylight extends and weather becomes more predictable.

Summer

Summer is peak hiking season in Edmonton with temperatures reaching 20-25°C and long daylight hours extending past 10 PM in June.

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The extensive river valley trail system provides excellent hiking with lush greenery, while nearby Elk Island National Park offers prairie and woodland trails. Pack insect repellent for mosquitoes and blackflies, and carry plenty of water during the warmest months.

Fall

Fall hiking around Edmonton from September to October features stunning autumn colors along the river valley trails with comfortable temperatures of 5-15°C.

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This season offers excellent visibility and fewer insects, making it ideal for longer hikes before winter sets in. Layer clothing as temperatures can vary significantly, and be prepared for early frost and shorter daylight hours.

Winter

Winter transforms Edmonton's hiking scene with snow-covered trails perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking from December through March, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C.

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The river valley trails remain accessible for winter activities, offering a unique urban winter wilderness experience. Dress in layers, wear microspikes or snowshoes, and stick to well-marked trails due to shorter daylight hours and extreme cold conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Where can you hike near Edmonton?

You can hike near Edmonton at 42 different trails located throughout the city's parks and natural areas. Popular hiking destinations include Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, Hawrelak Park, and Strathcona Science Provincial Park, offering diverse outdoor experiences within the city limits.

What are the best hiking trails near Edmonton?

The best hiking trails near Edmonton include Hawrelak Park (4.1km), Capilano Park (5km), and Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park (5.5km). Other popular options are Fort Edmonton Park (7.1km) and Strathcona Science Provincial Park (8.4km) for longer hiking experiences.

Are there easy hikes near Edmonton?

Yes, there are easy hikes near Edmonton, including shorter trails like Louise McKinney Riverfront Park (1km) and Muttart Conservatory (1.6km). Forest Heights Park (2.3km) and Borden Park (3.1km) also offer accessible hiking options for beginners and families.

How many hiking trails are there near Edmonton?

There are 41 hiking trails near Edmonton available for outdoor enthusiasts. These trails are distributed across various parks and natural areas throughout the city, offering diverse hiking experiences for all skill levels.

What is the best season to hike near Edmonton?

The best season to hike near Edmonton is typically late spring through early fall (May to September) when weather conditions are most favorable. Winter hiking is also possible on many Edmonton trails, though proper gear and preparation are essential due to Alberta's cold climate.

Can you hike with family near Edmonton?

Yes, you can hike with family near Edmonton at numerous family-friendly locations. Shorter trails like Louise McKinney Riverfront Park (1km), Borden Park (3.1km), and Government House Park (3.2km) are perfect for families with children of all ages.

Where can you hike for free near Edmonton?

You can hike for free near Edmonton at most city parks including Hawrelak Park, Capilano Park, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park. Many of Edmonton's 41 trails are located in public parks that offer free access to hiking trails and natural areas.

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Free guide: 25 hikes under 2 hours from Montreal

Distance, elevation, parking and season for each one. The ones we go back to ourselves.

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