Categories: Lifestyle

This riverfront park in Edmonton offers the best views of the valley

Photo via TetyanaT/Shutterstock

Louise McKinney Riverfront Park is adjacent to Edmonton’s downtown core and leads you into the beautiful, luscious River Valley.

According to the City, it was named after Louise Crummy McKinney, an advocate for women’s rights as well as the first woman elected and sworn into the legislature in the British Empire. It’s also easily one of my favourite parks in Edmonton. From the breathtaking river view to the convenient location, there is no inch of this park that isn’t absolutely stunning.

This spot offers you a lot of leeway on what you can do with the day. Whether it’s exploring downtown and then having a picnic in the park, or going for a run and having a bite to eat on Jasper Avenue, there are a lot of options. Here, though, you’ll find some of my personal best ways to take advantage of this place.

Ways to explore Louise McKinney Riverfront Park

First and foremost, this is the front entrance to the River Valley trail system. You can easily find a map online, and with that, you’ll be set to go on a little adventure of your own. There are not only walking trails, but cycling trails as well.

I’m a little privvy to the 500-metre unobstructed river view with benches so you can take in the sights. It’s a perfect spot to have a latte or bubble tea and chat with a friend.

Something extra fun about this spot? Take a chance and look at the bike and Segway rentals to make the journey a whole lot faster. If you aren’t sure where to go on your own, you can even take a Segway tour and visit some of Edmonton’s most historic landmarks.

I think some would argue the 100 Street Funicular is better than the rentals, though. This elevator is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and carries folks up and down from the top of the bank to the promenade. Pretty convenient, and a relatively new addition, having only been added in 2017.

However, the most convenient thing about this spot has to be the public washrooms. Open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., you can use the washrooms in the Riverfront Plaza. I can never find a washroom when I need it, so for me? This was such a blessing.

Truthfully, this park has the most to offer in Edmonton. It’d be especially criminal not to visit during the summer, so put your walking shoes on and get moving!