Edmonton Getting New 190 Acre River Valley Park This Summer

In summer 2023, the City of Edmonton will augment its extensive River Valley Park system with the addition of a new 190-acre public park in Northeast Edmonton.

Bigger than Hawrelak Park (168 acres) and slightly smaller than Rundle Park (192 acres), the new greenspace, previously known as Our Lady Queen of Peace Ranch North, will be nestled along the North Saskatchewan River and will link with popular River Valley trails.

 Offering a host of unique features such as quaint barn bridges, an ornamental lake, a large events centre, trail connections, a children’s playground, and public washrooms, the park promises to enrich the quality of outdoor experiences for Edmontonians.

EDMONTON, ALTA: May 18, 2023 — Northeast Park in Edmonton, Alta. on May 18, 2023. Photo by City of Edmonton

Approximately 2.3 km of walking trails will be available, including a 1.5km lakeside loop, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Per the news release, the site, located at 17 Street NE and 153 Avenue NE, was acquired as part of the city’s commitment to enhance the wellbeing of its residents, promoting quality outdoor recreation and biodiversity through the expansion of the Ribbon of Green network.

Located adjacent to the Horse Hill Area Structure Plan, which forecasts five future neighbourhoods and an anticipated population of 70,000, the park aims to foster healthy living and a sense of community.

Although the city officially acquired the park on May 15, it will open to the public in late summer 2023 to allow for necessary inspections and preparations.

Booking opportunities for the event centre and outdoor programs, including school programming and festivals, will open on June 1 and September 1, 2023, respectively.

Accessible from the River Valley trail network or by vehicle from 153 Avenue and 9 Street, the park, just a 25-minute drive from downtown Edmonton, is poised to be a new recreational hotspot in the city.