Editor’s note: Once a week for the next bit here at Transforming Edmonton we’re sharing some of our favourite places in the city. The pandemic has shortened the travel horizon for many. And that’s okay, because there are plenty of gems in different parts of our city that are worth a visit. Each week a different City of Edmonton team member gives you a story about a fave spot closer to home. This is Glenn Kubish’s view.
There’s a lot to breathe in on the East End Trails.
There’s big stuff, like the North Saskatchewan River and the sky.
At this time of year, there’s autumn, which, in Edmonton, can be both pretty short and long on pretty.
There’s big stuff like the pedestrian bridge slung under the Anthony Henday Drive Northeast bridge across the river.
And there’s big stuff that’s small stuff when you’re out on the East End Trails. Like the giant Stantec Tower, which you can find, if you look closely, on the horizon.
There’s small stuff to notice, too. Birdhouses in the trees.
Stone piles left by stair climbers to mark their up-and-down journey.
On the day I visited there were small waves and nods and hellos from people passing by on foot and bike.
The East End Trails are 16 kilometres of asphalt and gravel paths in the northeast corner of Edmonton. The system includes a main asphalt trail on the north side of the river from Hermitage Park to 167 Avenue. The trail on the south side of the river features a secondary gravel trail connecting the Clover Bar Area to the Henday pedestrian bridge crossing.
The trails were funded in partnership with the City of Edmonton, River Valley Alliance, the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada.
The River Valley Alliance tells a great story about the East End Trails, where they are, where to park and more.
The East End Trails are a good place to get some fresh air and some room for yourself, a peaceful place to stretch your legs and stretch your thoughts.