5 Easy Edmonton area Hikes
Edmonton is not exactly known to be a hiking paradise and driving back & forth from the rockies is not the most affordable right now with the crazy gas prices. So here are 5 tried and tested easy, beginner, dog/kid-friendly hikes that you have to try this year.
1) Mactaggart Sanctuary
I enjoy this hike in the winter time when everything freezes over, and theres even a small public skating rink. It does get steep at some parts so bring spikes in the winter!
2) Wagner Natural Area
I have been here over 15 times! Khearu and I love going here in all seasons. It comes as a literal city escape, about 30 minutes out of the city. Once you get there walk through the tiny opening in the gate (I thought it was locked the first time I went).
3) Hard Luck Canyon
I have only been here once, and by accident. I was going camping with my family at Carson-Pegasus and we found this on the way. This hike is only open in the summer, is in bear country, but is also moderately trafficked. There is a gravel road that leads up to the trailhead. All in all I loved this hike and will be taking Khearu here this year! The canyon is actually very hard to be able to see.
4) Elk Island trails
If you want a more adventurous close to home day trip Elk Island is for you. When I go to Elk Island National Park I spend the entire day there. There are many hikes that you can go on within the area, but Khearu and I enjoy Moss Lake Trail the most for a somewhat longer hike. For a shorter hike we like going to the boardwalk and taking in the view.
5) River Valley trails
My absolute favourite area to explore around the River Valley is by Concordia University. I start off by parking at the residential area by the University and then walk down from there on to the trail. I feel like all the trails in this area are best found when you explore. There are many areas with stairs and an awsome sunrise/sunset cliff viewing point. A part of the trail is also an off leash dog area. In general this is a highly trafficked area and is very user friendly.
