10 Best Forests in Edmonton That Will Lift Your Mood
After a long day indoors, there’s nothing like stepping outside and feeling the refreshment of fresh air and sunlight. I’ve found that being in nature really lifts my mood and helps me shake off the stress of the day.
Edmonton has over 380,000 boulevard trees, and the vast river valley—which is 22 times larger than NYC’s Central Park—always leaves me in awe. These natural areas are my go-to spots to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors.
Explore these forests and experience nature’s benefits! Whether you’re taking a peaceful walk or just soaking in the beauty, these green spaces are truly rejuvenating.
Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve
– Media from shots_by_jeff_day
Address: 5045 Whitemud Rd NW
When I first walked the Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve, I was amazed by how quickly the city faded away. It was a 5 km round trip, and it took me roughly 90 minutes to complete.
The trail winds through towering balsam poplars and white spruce, offering a habitat for over 150 bird species, including robins and red-tailed hawks. The creek, especially active in spring, attracts wildlife like muskrats along its banks.
At the 2.5 km lookout point, there is a stunning view of the creek and dense forest below. Turning back there makes for a manageable and refreshing hike, with clear signage to guide the way back to the parking lot.
| Pro Tip: If you need a snack during your hike, the camp store at Rainbow Valley Campground within Whitemud Ravine Nature Reserve offers refreshments from mid-April to mid-October. In the winter, you can also grab snacks at the nearby ski chalet. |
Terwillegar Park
– Media from paty.nevess
Address: 10 Rabbit Hill Rd NW
I visit Terwillegar Park regularly, especially for its wide variety of trails that allow for different activities like hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The park’s off-leash area is a highlight, where dogs can roam freely and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The 186-hectare space offers plenty of room for walks, and I often choose a path that loops through the woods or heads toward the river for some stunning views. The park’s open fields and tree-lined trails make it an ideal spot for a break from the city hustle.
Its parking lot, located at the bottom of Rabbit Hill Road, serves as a good starting point for exploring, with easy access to a variety of paths. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a more challenging hike, there’s a trail for everyone.
| Pro Tip: For convenience, park near the east end of the Terwillegar parking lot to access the portable toilet and emergency phone. If you’re looking for food or shopping, Riverbend Square is just a short drive away. |
Emily Murphy Park
– Media from tdxx99
Address: 11904 Emily Murphy Park Rd NW
I love how secluded Emily Murphy Park feels, especially with the busy city around it. It’s a perfect spot to escape and enjoy some time in nature while being close to the heart of Edmonton.
The park has 3 picnic sites available for booking, and though it can get crowded in summer, there’s always a quiet spot to be found. I’ve spent hours by the hidden fire pit here, tucked away from the hustle and bustle.
One of my favourite things about the park is the walking trails. The 1.3 km path leading toward Kinsmen Park gives you beautiful views of the river and connects to some of Edmonton’s most scenic spots.
| Pro Tip: During winter, you can enjoy the toboggan hill at the park, but be sure to wear a helmet and slide face-forward. Remember dogs aren’t allowed, and tobogganing after dark is not recommended. |
Larch Sanctuary
– Media from kohnman1
Address: May Link NW
I love visiting Larch Sanctuary, a peaceful 58-acre wildlife reserve in Edmonton. It’s easily accessible from 23rd Avenue and provides a quiet escape, offering a mix of century-old white spruce, deciduous forest, and regenerating birch trees.
It’s a key wildlife corridor with 42 bird species and animals like the pileated woodpecker. The oxbow lake hosts beavers, ducks, and fish, and there’s also a bee hotel and bat box to support pollinators and the endangered little brown bat!
The sanctuary is part of the River Valley and is protected by a conservation agreement. It’s a great spot to walk on the well-kept trails and enjoy nature while helping to protect this important area that supports 80% of Alberta’s wildlife.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to hike, be prepared for a narrow, muddy trail with many roots and steep inclines, making it a challenging hike. It’s best suited for experienced hikers, and I wouldn’t recommend it for bikes or small children. |
Mill Creek Ravine
– Media from justin_1909
Address: 76 Ave NW
Mill Creek Ravine is a peaceful spot I love for walking, biking, and bringing my dog. There’s parking available at 82 Avenue, and portable toilets make it convenient during longer visits.
I enjoy the 5 km round-trip trail in Mill Woods, which is mostly flat with some inclines. The dirt path crosses footbridges over the creek, and there are staircases that lead to nearby neighbourhoods if I want to explore more.
I always make sure to bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes can be pretty bad in the warmer months. After finishing the trail, I like to head to Jackie Parker Park, where my dog can enjoy some off-leash time.
| Pro Tips: For a peaceful break, I often stop for a picnic at one of the valley’s scenic picnic tables or enjoy a bite at Wild Earth Bakery and Café. If I want more choices, Mill Creek Café and other spots along Whyte Avenue are nearby. When I need washroom facilities, I usually head over to the Muttart Conservatory or find a portable toilet by the Middle parking lot for convenience. |
Bunchberry Meadows Conservation Area
– Media from katheemac
Address: 1B5, Range Rd 261, Spruce Grove
Bunchberry Meadows Conservation Area is a beautiful place full of wildlife, with animals like moose, deer, and songbirds. I enjoy walking through the aspen parkland and wetlands, where I can see different plants and animals thriving in their natural habitats.
The area is part of the Devon Dunes, which has unique sand dunes formed after the last ice age. As I explore the trails, I’m amazed by the history of the land and how it connects to other natural areas that help support wildlife.
Bunchberry Meadows also has cultural importance with the Maskêkosihk Trail. It’s great to know that this land is protected and that there are opportunities for people like me to help restore native plants or take part in bird monitoring efforts.
| Pro Tip: The best time to hike the Maskêkosihk trail is from May to March, especially during quieter times of the day. Early mornings or weekdays offer a peaceful experience, perfect for birding and enjoying nature. |
MacKinnon Food Forest
– Media from michnic
Address: Summit Dr NW
I visited MacKinnon Food Forest and was happy to see how well the plants were doing. The native fruit-bearing shrubs like saskatoons and chokecherries were healthy and growing well on the south-facing slope of the ravine.
As I walked through the food forest, I saw how the plants were thriving, especially in the new area added to the west. Even though the plants are still young and not producing fruit yet, it’s clear the ecosystem is moving towards being self-sustaining.
After exploring the food forest, I ventured to nearby trails and riverbanks. I found a peaceful spot to sit and watch the sunset, appreciating the tranquillity and natural beauty that MacKinnon Ravine offers for anyone seeking outdoor adventure.
| Pro Tips: There are peaceful spots, like the old concrete slabs by the river, that make for a great place to sit and enjoy the sunset after your walk. Mosquitoes can be a problem near the riverbanks, so be sure to bring some repellent to stay comfortable while exploring. |
Wedgewood Ravine
– Media from elizkalou
Address: 1189 Wedgewood Blvd NW
Wedgewood Ravine offers a 2-kilometre round-trip trail with paved paths and mild hills on each end, making it suitable for an easy to moderate walk. I find the trail to be an enjoyable escape, easily accessible from either Lessard Road or Cameron Heights.
The ravine is home to a variety of trees, including white spruce and aspen poplar, and is a great spot for birdwatching with species like chickadees and nuthatches. Squirrels and deer are common sights along the trail, and the paved path is dog-friendly on a leash.
In addition to its natural beauty, the ravine is part of the Wedgewood Creek watershed, with the creek flowing through it, carrying glacial sand and boulders. The area is also home to two families of beavers and a variety of other wildlife.
| Pro Tips: The trail is dog-friendly, but it’s important to keep your dog on a leash to respect wildlife and other visitors. In winter, the hills can become icy and difficult to navigate without proper footwear and cleats. Make sure to wear traction devices to stay safe and enjoy the trail. |
Rundle Park
– Media from hashen.perera87
Address: 2909 113 Ave NW
Rundle Park offers a 2.9-km loop trail that’s easy to walk or jog, taking about 40 minutes to complete. The trail is peaceful, surrounded by forests and hills, and is popular for birding, with 126 bird species recorded.
The park features sports fields, lakes, picnic areas, and a golf course, with paddle boat rentals available in the summer. I often find quiet spots near the tennis courts and picnic areas, even when the park is busy.
With activities like kayak polo, disc golf, and birdwatching, the park has something for everyone. It’s great year-round, with toboggan hills and an IceWay in winter, and in autumn, the trees put on a stunning display of colour.
| Pro Tip: For a scenic and moderate adventure, hike the 6.5 km loop from Gold Bar Park to Rundle Park, taking in two beautiful footbridges and lush riverside views. Be sure to watch for flying discs when passing the golf course. |
Sherwood Park Natural Area
– Media from brabm
Address: 52118 Clover Rd, Sherwood Park
I’ve spent many peaceful hours exploring the Sherwood Park Natural Area, a 68-hectare site with a 2.7-kilometre trail loop that starts from Range Road 231. The trail is easy to follow, and I enjoy walking through the peaceful aspen forests and wetlands.
The area features mature poplar, white spruce, and birch trees, with a dense understory of shrubs and wildflowers. I often spot wildlife, including white-tailed deer, moose, and various bird species like chickadees, woodpeckers, and orioles.
There are also several wetlands in the area, home to plants like willows, marsh marigolds, and Labrador tea. For a bit of history, I enjoy walking along the Old Edmonton Trail, where I can see original route markers from the early 1900s.
| Pro Tips: Remember, Strathcona County bylaws prohibit horses and wheeled vehicles, including bicycles, on walking trails in the Sherwood Park Natural Area. Stick to walking to help preserve the area’s integrity. Always take your garbage with you and dispose of it properly. If you find any refuse along the way, make sure to carry it out as well. |