The best cycling routes in River Valley Area
4.6
(174)
2,078
riders
24
rides
Touring cycling in River Valley Area offers diverse landscapes shaped by its central river and surrounding topography. The region features a mix of relatively flat floodplains, rolling hills, and bluffs, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Extensive forested lands offer shade and scenic views, while agricultural areas provide peaceful rides through the countryside. Many routes utilize converted rail trails, offering well-maintained paths suitable for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes in River Valley Area
- The most popular touring cycling route is Walterdale Bridge – Victoria Park loop from Fulton Place, a 18.2 miles (29.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes to complete, offering scenic riverside views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Walterdale Bridge – Mill Creek Ravine loop from Fort Edmonton, a moderate 33.8 miles (54.3 km) path that winds through varied terrain including river valleys and ravines.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Hermitage Park – River Valley Trail Section loop from Hermitage, a 14.0 miles (22.4 km) trail leading through parklands and river sections, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Touring cycling in River Valley Area is defined by riverside paths, forested areas, and converted rail trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in River Valley Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore River Valley Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.2
(5)
53
riders
29.2km
01:49
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
27
riders
54.4km
03:31
420m
420m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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23
riders
22.5km
01:23
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
18
riders
Hard bike ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
6
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in River Valley Area
Tips from the Community
Fraser Park is in the Fraser neighbourhood and has an area of 3.04 ha. Like other neighbourhoods in the Clareview subdivision, Fraser is named for an Edmonton pioneer. John Fraser (1840-1919) was the son of Hudson's Bay officer Colin Fraser. Born at Jasper House, Fraser apprenticed to the Hudson's Bay Company as a boat builder and dog driver. In 1871, Fraser moved to the "lower settlement" (now known as Highlands neighbourhood) and homesteaded there.
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Between 1969 and 1979, the City of Edmonton acquired parcels of land in the Hermitage area. By 1979 the area had been turned into a park and included in the Capital City Recreation Park system. Hermitage Park is in the Hermitage subdivision and has an area of 36.81 ha. The first district headquarters of the Church of England was established in this area in the late 1800s by the Rev. Canon William Newton (1828-1912). Newton called the settlement The Hermitage (the home of a hermit or a secluded dwelling). The Canon Ridge, Homesteader and Overlanders neighbourhoods are within the Hermitage subdivision.
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Mary Irene Marryat Parlby (1868-1965) was the first woman in Alberta and second woman in the British Empire to serve as a cabinet minister. Parlby was born in England and came to Alberta in 1897. After helping to establish the women's auxiliary of the United Farmers' of Alberta (UFA), she became the provincial president of the United Farm Women of Alberta in 1916. From 1921 to 1935 Parlby was a member of the provincial legislature in the UFA government. She served on the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta from 1919 to 1921 and was the first woman to receive an honorary doctorate of laws degree from the University of Alberta. Parlby was a member of the "Famous five" who, in 1929, won the "Person's Case" before the Privy Council of England, granting women the right to hold a seat in the Canadian Senate. She was named to the Canadian delegation that attended the League of Nations at Geneva in 1930. The Irene Parlby Park has an area of 3.7 ha.
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Terwillegar Park, formerly Riverbend Park, lies in a bend of the North Saskatchewan River, west of Rhatigan Ridge neighbourhood. In the early 1900s this land was used for ranching and later, as a gravel pit. When the area was restructured as a park, the gravel pits were turned into ponds and trails. Over the years, the area was commonly identified by this name. The park's development plan calls for picnic and winter sports areas, an administration building, a nature centre, a boathouse and a number of trails that connect with existing river valley trails. Terwillegar Park is west of the Riverbend subdivision and has an area of 174.88 ha.
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This park is named for Queen Victoria (1819-1901). The majority of this park land was acquired by the City of Edmonton in 1912, at which time it was known as Hudson's Bay Company Flats. Developed as one of Canada's first municipal golf courses, it was renamed to Victoria Park after local women's groups petitioned City Hall to identify the park with a famous woman. Victoria Park Golf Course (formerly known as the Municipal Golf Course) is located within the park. Victoria Park is located south of the Oliver neighbourhood and has an area of 111.67 ha.
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Nice park just down the hill from downtown. As a kid, I worked here when it was the Grierson Hill Driving Range.
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A handy way to connect 148 Street across Stony Plain Road, without jogging over to 149 Street and having to deal with the traffic there.
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Official Ribbon Cutting for new bridge (Free Pizza)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in the River Valley Area?
The River Valley Area offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll find relatively flat floodplains along the river, rolling hills, and bluffs. Many routes utilize converted rail trails, which are typically well-maintained and offer smoother rides. Expect a mix of paved, gravel, and unpaved surfaces, with extensive forested lands providing shade and scenic views, and agricultural areas offering peaceful rides through the countryside.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families in the River Valley Area?
Yes, the River Valley Area has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Terwillegar Park Footbridge – Fort Edmonton Footbridge loop from Park Gates is an easy 10.5 km path. Many rail trails in the region, such as the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail mentioned in the region research, are also ideal for leisurely rides due to their flat and well-maintained nature.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the River Valley Area?
For those seeking a challenge, the River Valley Area offers routes with more significant elevation changes. The Terwillegar Park Footbridge – Fort Edmonton Footbridge loop from Riverbend is classified as difficult, featuring varied terrain. The region's bluffs and rolling hills provide opportunities for more strenuous climbs and descents.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
The River Valley Area is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore stunning natural features like Mill Creek Ravine, MacKenzie Ravine, and Whitemud Creek Ravine. Man-made highlights include the High Level Bridge and the Kâhasinîskâk Pedestrian Bridge. Many routes also pass through forested areas, offering wildlife viewing, and charming historic towns.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the River Valley Area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular examples include the Walterdale Bridge – Victoria Park loop from Fulton Place, the Walterdale Bridge – Mill Creek Ravine loop from Fort Edmonton, and the Hermitage Park – River Valley Trail Section loop from Hermitage.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the River Valley Area?
The River Valley Area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from scenic riverside paths to challenging ravine sections, and the well-maintained network of trails. The blend of natural beauty and accessible routes makes it a favorite for many.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the River Valley Area?
The River Valley Area is enjoyable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Fall is particularly scenic, with vibrant foliage transforming the forested areas. While winter conditions can vary, some trails may still be accessible, though specific conditions should be checked locally.
Are there options for parking or public transport access to the cycling routes?
Many cycling routes in the River Valley Area are accessible from various points, often with designated parking areas near trailheads or parks. For specific routes, checking the starting point on komoot will usually provide details on nearby parking. Public transport options may also be available to reach certain access points, especially in and around towns within the valley.
How many touring cycling routes are there in the River Valley Area?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes available in the River Valley Area, catering to various skill levels and preferences. This includes 8 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from casual riders to experienced cyclists.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest that are particularly good for cyclists?
Beyond the natural beauty, cyclists can enjoy passing through charming small towns, which often offer opportunities for rest and refreshments. The region is also known for its historic covered bridges in some sections, adding a unique cultural element to rides. Parks like Shikellamy State Park and Milton State Park (as mentioned in the region research) provide dedicated cycling paths and facilities.
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