The best gravel rides around Strathcona County
4.6
(6)
51
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking around Strathcona County offers diverse landscapes within the Beaver Hills Biosphere, characterized by rolling to hummocky terrain. The region features treed upland areas, wetlands, and aspen-dominated boreal mixed wood forests. This varied topography provides a dynamic environment for gravel biking, utilizing both multi-use trails and maintained rural gravel roads. The area includes natural spaces like Elk Island National Park and the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area.
Best gravel bike trails around Strathcona County
- The most popular gravel bike…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.2
(5)
21
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
26.6km
01:34
250m
250m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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13
riders
34.4km
02:07
300m
300m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
38.5km
03:15
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The bridge is roofed to protect from the elements. You walk at a level lower than the High Level (road & rail) Bridge, so your views of the river from either side are unobstructed.
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Henrietta Muir Edwards Park is a beautiful river valley park set along the North Saskatchewan River, with a mix of open green space and mature forest. Paved and unpaved trails connect to the wider valley network, with viewpoints overlooking the river and access to nearby footbridges. The park also features a historic home linked to Henrietta Muir Edwards, adding cultural significance to its natural setting.
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Emily Murphy Park, nestled along the south bank of the North Saskatchewan River, is a beautiful spot with picnic areas, a playground, a small boat launch, and open grassy areas that lead down toward the river. In winter, its toboggan hill becomes a local favourite, adding to its year-round appeal for families and casual outings.
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Groat Bridge spans the North Saskatchewan River, carrying traffic and pedestrians between the river valley communities of Glenora and Mayfair. Opened in 1955, the twin-span structure offers fantastic elevated views of the surrounding parkland. Recent upgrades have widened its shared-use path, making it a key crossing for both commuters and recreational users.
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From Wikipedia: "The Dudley B. Menzies Bridge is a dedicated LRT bridge crossing the North Saskatchewan River in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Named after Edmonton engineer and politician Dudley Blair Menzies, the bridge was the "first concrete segmental box girder bridge in Western Canada".[2] The main deck carries two tracks of the LRT system connecting Government Centre station and the University station. A walkway for pedestrians and bicycles hangs beneath the main spans of the bridge over the river."
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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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Emily Murphy (1868-1933) was the first female police magistrate in the British Empire (1916). The City's Names Advisory Committee originally decided to name the park "Janey Canuck," Murphy's pen name, but Murphy's daughter convinced the committee to change the name before it went to City Council. Murphy was born in Ontario and came to Edmonton in 1907. Already a popular author, she lobbied for provisions in the Dower Act that entitled a woman to part of her husband's estate. She campaigned for female suffrage, and became a judge in 1916. Her efforts in the Persons Case, as part of the Famous five, saw women legally declared to be "persons," giving women the right to become members of the Senate. Emily Murphy Park is located in the river valley and has an area of 11 ha.
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Henrietta Louise Edwards (née Muir), women’s rights activist, reformer, artist (born 18 December 1849 in Montreal, Canada East; died 9 November 1931 in Fort Macleod, AB). Henrietta Edwards fought from a young age for women’s rights and education, as well as women’s work and health. She helped establish many movements, societies and organizations aimed at improving the lives of women, and was instrumental in passing Alberta’s Dower Act in 1917. She was also one of the Famous Five behind the Persons Case, the successful campaign to have women declared persons in the eyes of British law. However, her views on immigration and eugenics have been criticized as racist and elitist. She was named a Person of National Historic Significance in 1962 and an honorary senator in 2009.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Strathcona County?
Strathcona County offers a diverse network of over 8 gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes utilize both multi-use trails and maintained rural gravel roads, providing a rich experience within the Beaver Hills Biosphere.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Strathcona County?
The terrain in Strathcona County is quite varied, characterized by extensively treed upland areas with rolling to hummocky landscapes, rich wetlands, and aspen-dominated boreal mixed wood forests. This diverse topography ensures an engaging backdrop for gravel biking, offering both scenic and challenging sections.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are options for beginners. For a more relaxed ride, consider the Walterdale Bridge – Tawatina Bridge loop from Bonnie Doon. This route is rated as easy and covers 15.7 miles (25.3 km) with minimal elevation gain, making it a great introduction to gravel biking in the area.
Are there any challenging gravel routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Experienced riders looking for a challenge might enjoy the Emily Murphy Park Lookout – Tawatina Bridge loop from Government Centre. This 16.9 miles (27.2 km) route is rated as difficult and includes notable elevation changes, providing a more strenuous workout.
Can I find family-friendly gravel biking routes in the area?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with moderate difficulty and less technical terrain are generally suitable. The region's commitment to multi-use trails and maintained rural gravel roads means many paths offer a smoother experience. Look for routes described as 'moderate' or 'easy' for family outings.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Strathcona County?
Strathcona County is a year-round destination for outdoor activities. However, for gravel biking, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions. The region's varied landscapes are particularly beautiful during these seasons. Winter biking is possible, but trail conditions will vary and require appropriate gear.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest I can see along the gravel bike trails?
Yes, Strathcona County is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. While biking, you might pass by areas like Goldstick Park or cross impressive structures like the Highway 15 Footbridge and the Amisk Wâciw Âsokan Footbridge. The region is part of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, encompassing natural areas like Elk Island National Park and Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, known for wildlife viewing and diverse ecosystems.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Strathcona County?
Many of the gravel biking routes in Strathcona County originate from accessible points, often near urban centers or designated park areas. For routes starting from 'Government Centre' or 'Bonnie Doon', you'll typically find public parking available in those vicinities. Specific trailheads within provincial recreation areas like Cooking Lake-Blackfoot also offer parking facilities.
Are there any loop trails for gravel biking in Strathcona County?
Yes, many of the popular gravel biking routes in Strathcona County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Tawatina Bridge – Tawatina Bridge loop from Corona and the Neon Lake – Arrow Head Lake loop from Neon Lake, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Strathcona County?
The gravel biking routes in Strathcona County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, and the well-maintained rural gravel roads that make for an enjoyable riding experience.
Are there any gravel biking routes that pass near cafes or pubs?
While the region is known for its natural spaces, many routes start or pass through areas close to communities like Sherwood Park or Edmonton, where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, routes originating from 'Government Centre' or 'Bonnie Doon' are typically within reach of urban amenities for a post-ride refreshment.
Can I go gravel biking in Elk Island National Park?
Elk Island National Park, a significant part of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, is a treasure for wildlife viewing and offers an oasis of calm. While the park has a network of trails, specific gravel biking trails within the national park itself are not detailed. However, the surrounding region and the nearby Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area offer extensive multi-use trails ideal for gravel biking, providing access to similar natural beauty.
Are there less crowded gravel biking options near Sherwood Park?
To find less crowded options, consider exploring routes that venture deeper into the Beaver Hills Biosphere or those that are slightly off the main urban connectors. The extensive network of rural gravel roads and multi-use trails, particularly within areas like the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, can offer a more secluded riding experience away from the busiest spots.
Most popular routes around Strathcona County
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