Laurier Park to Hawrelak Park Hike

Twelve people came out to hike Edmonton’s River Valley from Laurier Park to Hawrelak Park. This is a traditional hike for us at this time of year, because the Silver Skate Festival is on at the same time.

We started our hike by crossing the Quesnel Bridge and walking along the right bank through Laurier Park side.

Bald eagle

We soon came upon a rare site—a bald eagle perched high on a poplar branch, facing the river. Just once, he turned to look at us.

At Hawrelak Park, it was warm enough to have our lunch at the picnic tables outside the pavilion. Then we toured the ice sculptures, which were fascinating and innovative as always.

For the return, we decided it was too icy to take the path down along the river. Instead, we climbed the stairs up to Groat Road, and connected to Saskatchewan Drive. We walked along the top of the river valley and turned down at Keillor Road.

Thanks to Lee for scouting and leading the hike, to the Silver Skate Festival organizers for their dedication, and to the ice sculpturists for their beautiful art and imagination. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

See were we are going next.

Devon Trails Hike

Sixteen people came out to hike the trails at Devon. We started at the parking lot between the golf course and the Lions’ Campground. The town has added a lot of new parking here, as the area is extremely popular with cross-country skiers.

Our hike started west along the North Saskatchewan River. At the end of the campground we turned south into the ravine. It’s deep and narrow, but due to its north-south orientation we were in good sunlight most of the way through.

Ravine Trail, Devon Alberta
Devon Ravine Trail

We climbed out of the ravine and walked on the Pileated Woodpecker Trail to the road. Years ago, we did see a pileated woodpecker here. It was right next to us on the trail.

From there we walked through town up to the Dale Fisher Arena and had our lunch in the sunlit space.

The final part of the hike was on the wooded slopes above the North Saskatchewan River, ending at the golf course.

Thanks to John for scouting and leading the hike and to the Town and people of Devon who keep the trails in their great shape. You can find more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.