Trail System

Edmonton has more than 160 kilometres of maintained multi-use trails (2009). Go for a leisurely stroll, enjoy a bike ride or inline skate through Edmonton's beautiful river valley. Check here for information on Trail/Park Cautions & Closures or Trail Sweeping and Snow Clearing.

Trail Use

The City of Edmonton’s Parkland Bylaw #2202 defines two types of trails: Improved and Unimproved. In both cases “trails” refers to an identifiable path, track or public right of way Intended for use by pedestrians and vehicles other than motor vehicles.

Authorized staff may have to close certain trails or natural areas to ALL ACTIVITIES when there is a safety concern, or a need to allow damaged areas to be repaired, minimizing risks to environmentally sensitive areas or wildlife corridors.

Consideration and polite behaviour are essential in order to ensure the enjoyment of all trail users and protection of our natural resources.

Improved Trails

Have a minimum width of at least 1.5 meters and an improved surface such as pavement, granular material or mulch, or a maintained grass surface.

Unimproved Trails

Have a surface width of at least 0.5 meters (width of a typical Mountain Bikes handlebars) and have a Natural Surface.

Animal Paths/Tracks

Paths or tracks that have a width of less than 0.5 meters are not trails. These narrow “animal paths” that criss cross Edmonton’s River Valley are not considered trails, but are deemed to be part of natural areas.

Individuals may only travel in natural areas when they remain on an improved or unimproved trails with a width of 0.5 meters or more. This rule will ensure that animal tracks/trails are not affected by human interaction.

Share Our Trails

Most of the trails within the River Valley are shared use…you can expect cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and other recreational users. If we can follow the law and show common courtesy, the trails will be a happier place for all. Some universal points of trail etiquette include:

  1. Respect other trail users - Treat all trail users with courtesy and respect regardless of their activity, speed or skill level.
  2. Be aware - Look behind and in front before changing trail positions. Warn those in front that you are approaching. If you want to move left or pass someone, check what’s going on behind you. If you travel with ear buds turn the volume down or wear only one so you can hear what’s going on around you.
  3. Keep trails open - If you’re in a group on the trail ensure you leave room on the trail for others to pass you. Stay right and pass on the left. Always look before changing your position on the trail. 
  4. Slow down for safety - Downhill traffic yields to uphill traffic. Travel at a safe and controlled speed. Be especially careful when visibility is limited. All users yield to horseback riders. 
  5. Obey rules and laws - The City’s Parkland bylaw #2202 applies to trails. It has many rules to protect trail users such as rules about when dogs must be on a leash. It also restricts the hours you are allowed on trails. 
  6. Use open trails only - If the trail is closed, please stay off it. Respect all posted signs and barriers. 
  7. Leave No Trace - Practice low impact trail use. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trail is soft, Please consider other options. Carry out all litter, including your pet’s waste. 
  8. Dogs - Dogs are a potential fright for a lot of people. Dogs must be kept on a leash (unless in a sanctioned Off-Leash area) and under control at all times. 
  9. Plan ahead - Know your equipment, your ability, and the area you are traveling in and plan accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times. This advice will keep you safe.

Emergency BluFone

Blue Emergency Help Phones are located strategically throughout the River Valley. They are activated by the push of a button and connect directly to the 911 Emergency System.

Other Emergency Contacts:

Police/Fire/Ambulance: 911
Police Complaint Line: 780-423-4567

For more information:

River Valley Park Rangers

Telephone

311
Fax 780-944-7532
Email parkrangers@edmonton.ca
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