Whether you’ve lived here forever, are just visiting, or are new to the city, Edmonton offers many summer activities to keep you busy and healthy!

Being active outside has many health benefits, such as burning more calories, boosting energy levels, improving mood, and improving the health of your heart.

Plus, being outside helps you get a nice dose of vitamin D, which helps with mood and bone strength.

Luckily, there is no shortage of outdoor activities in the city of Edmonton. If you’re looking to stay active and outside this summer, here are some activities you need to try:

Visit An Outdoor Gym

Did you know that Edmonton has seven outdoor fitness parks? From strength and cardio equipment to tips and information, you can complete an entire workout outside!

Some outdoor gyms only have a couple of pieces of equipment, while others have several fitness stations alongside parks and trails.

Make sure you check out the signs that suggest exercises for you to do!

Go For a Hike

While Edmonton has many beautiful hiking locations, we recommend checking out the North Saskatchewan River Valley. This area has over 150 km of trails where you can hike, bike, and jog!

With various trail systems, you can plan for a full-day hike or a quick stroll during the afternoon. Just make sure you bring plenty of water.

Try a New Activity

With so many outdoor spaces to enjoy, Edmonton is the perfect place to try out a new activity!

From learning how to longboard at one of the skate parks to fly-fishing in Edmonton’s many beautiful lakes, there is no end to the new hobbies you can discover while staying active in this amazing city!

Rent a Canoe

Around Edmonton, you can hire a canoe tour guide for a river excursion around the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Athabasca River or around the quiet lakes surrounding Elk Island National Park.

Or rent your own canoe and enjoy the gentle waters of Edmonton’s rivers as you take in the amazing view of the downtown skyline!

Try a Round of Golf

Did you know that Edmonton has more than 80 golf courses! No matter your skill level when it comes to golf, check out the rural, urban, and riverside courses.

Golf courses within the city of Edmonton include Mill Woods Golf Club, Raven Crest Golf & Country Club, Riverside Golf Course, and Rundle Park Golf Course.

Check Out the Farmer’s Markets and Festivals

Each summer, Edmonton hosts amazing festivals such as the Fringe Theatre Festival, the Folk Music Festival, and Symphony Under the Sky.

If you enjoy strolling around farmer’s markets to stay active outdoors, check out the Old Strathcona Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. They are open all year round!

Other markets you should check out in Edmonton include the Downtown Farmer’s Market and 124 Grand Market.

Pack a Picnic

With so many beautiful parks in the Edmonton area, why not go for a beautiful walk and bring along a picnic?

You don’t have to go far outside of the city to find the perfect picnic spot. Check out areas such as Waterdale Hill, Sir Wilfred Laurier Park, and the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.

Go For a Swim

There are many family-friendly beaches in and around the Edmonton area. Pack a lunch and some sunscreen and enjoy this awesome summer activity!

For the best beaches to go swimming, consider Long Lake Provincial Park Beach, Aspen Beach at Gull Lake, and Wabamun Lake Provincial Park.

If beaches aren’t your thing, but you love to swim, Edmonton also has many outdoor public pools for you to enjoy!

Join a Community Garden

A community garden is an area where a group of people can come together to grow a garden.

Edmonton has over 80 community gardens that promote locally grown food and healthy and active lifestyles!

Check to see if there is a community garden in your area. Not only is it a great way to stay active outdoors but it helps build a sense of community and beautify the neighborhood.

How Can I Stay Active Outdoors in the Wintertime?

Even though the winter temperatures in Edmonton can plummet below -30 degrees celsius, there is no shortage of outdoor activities during the colder months!

Instead of staying cooped up all winter, check out the beautiful outdoor ice plaza at City Hall for some ice skating or Edmonton’s regularly groomed cross-country skiing trails in the River Valley.

If you’re into downhill skiing, there’s always Rabbit Hill by the south bank of the North Saskatchewan River – it has over 40 acres of ski and snowboard trails!

Get Active in Edmonton

No matter the weather, there is always something to do outdoors in Edmonton for residents and tourists alike.

What’s your favorite outdoor activity? Let us know in the comments!

About the author

Avatar photo

Dr. Bola

Family physician. Works for the "man" by day, wife & mom 24/7.
Loves the work of translating "medicalese" to plain english.

Leave a Comment