A favourite part of travel for many people is finding great views – maybe views you’ve seen previously shared on Instagram or the internet – and capturing them with a camera to savour the memory forever. Of course, this year is not a typical summer for travel, and maybe you’re left craving those views and Instagram-worthy spots. The truth is, there’s no better time to explore your backyard, and the Edmonton region river valley is home to many great views and vistas. With the help of our staff, ambassadors and photographer friends, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best viewpoints the River Valley offers.
Central
Saskatchewan Drive
This is one of my favourite skyline viewpoints in the city. It’s on Saskatchewan Dr and approximately 105 St. There is a small park with benches and walking trails along Saskatchewan Dr and down into the river valley below. – Harmony Wolgemuth (@coffee_and_baileys)
Walterdale Bridge
“I’m obsessed with this bridge; I take pictures of it every time I pass by on a run.” – Daniella San-Martin Feeney (@daniellasmf)
McNally Lookout/Forest Heights Park
“One of my favourite views of the skyline. I love how the river winds in front of it, and the gorgeous blue Dawson Bridge is another highlight.” – Arielle Demchuk (@d_chuk314)
West
St George’s Crescent in Glenora
This east-facing view is fantastic for sunrise—a beautiful little spot in the heart of Glenora on St George’s Crescent. – Harmony Wolgemuth (@coffee_and_baileys)
East
Capilano Viewpoint
This is another favourite of mine—whether it’s sunsets, storms, or sunny afternoons, this viewpoint on Hardisty Drive never disappoints. – Harmony Wolgemuth (@coffee_and_baileys)
Ada Boulevard Viewpoint
Ada Blvd is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, dog walk, or bike ride, and the views from the little park on 75th and Ada Blvd are beautiful in every season. – Harmony Wolgemuth (@coffee_and_baileys)
South
Whitemud Ravine
Whitemud Ravine is home to many little viewpoints, whether a bridge around the corner or the reflection of tall trees in the water. – Bryce Joyce (@brycejoyce)
Strathcona County
Riverside Nature Trail Bench
There’s something super peaceful about the view of this bench looking onto the field on this trail in Strathcona County. – Bryce Joyce (@brycejoyce)
River views on Riverside Nature Trail
The banks are less steep on this section of trail, which puts you right up close to the river, and on a clear day, the river can reflect the blue sky. – Bryce Joyce (@brycejoyce)
What are your favourite viewpoints in the river valley? Are there any we missed? Please send us an email and let us know!