Nestled in the heart of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, Terwillegar Park is one of Edmonton’s most loved outdoor destinations. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, dog-friendly atmosphere, and extensive trail network, this massive 186-hectare park offers a refreshing escape from city life without leaving town. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, nature lover, pet owner, or casual weekend explorer, Terwillegar Park has something for everyone.
This hidden gem is especially famous for its off-leash dog area, making it a paradise for dog owners. But beyond that, it’s also a hotspot for mountain biking, canoeing, birdwatching, and hiking. The park connects to other green spaces via the iconic Terwillegar Footbridge, giving you easy access to explore even more of Edmonton’s vast river valley.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what to do, where to go, what to bring, and why Terwillegar Park should be at the top of your Edmonton adventure list.
The Beauty of Terwillegar Park’s Natural Landscape
Unlike many urban parks that are heavily landscaped, Terwillegar Park retains a wild, rustic charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped deep into nature. With lush forest trails, wide open meadows, and natural sandy riverbanks, the park feels like a wilderness retreat tucked inside a major city.
Terwillegar is located in southwest Edmonton, right off Rabbit Hill Road. The park’s location within the river valley makes it naturally secluded—perfect for those who want to disconnect from screens and connect with nature. Its landscapes change beautifully with the seasons. Spring brings bursts of greenery, summer provides perfect conditions for paddling and picnicking, fall turns the area into a canvas of golden colors, and winter transforms it into a quiet, snow-covered paradise.
Birdwatchers can spot dozens of species, including woodpeckers, hawks, and chickadees. You might even see deer along the riverbank if you’re quiet and lucky. The ecosystem here remains mostly untouched, making it ideal for environmental education and photography.
This commitment to preserving its natural feel makes Terwillegar Park an essential stop for those who want a raw, immersive outdoor experience within Edmonton.
Off-Leash Dog Freedom at Its Best
One of the most celebrated features of Terwillegar Park is its enormous off-leash dog area. Unlike most dog parks which are fenced-in or limited in size, Terwillegar offers a free-roaming paradise where dogs can run for kilometers—chasing sticks, socializing, or splashing in the river.
The entire park is considered an off-leash zone, but dogs must still be under voice control at all times. This setup gives well-trained dogs a chance to explore, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors as freely as their owners do. With wide trails, grassy fields, and dog-friendly access points to the river, it’s easily the best dog park in Edmonton.
Owners will appreciate waste bag stations and bins placed throughout the park, as well as the friendly atmosphere among fellow dog lovers. The river itself is a major highlight—many dogs love to swim, fetch sticks, or just cool off along the shore.
Visiting with a dog? Bring:
- A leash for the parking lot and busy trail crossings
- Dog treats or water
- Waste bags (extra, just in case)
- A towel for muddy paws after river play
Terwillegar is not just a park—it’s a canine adventure zone, loved by both pups and their people.
Hiking, Biking, and Trail Adventures
Terwillegar Park offers one of the most diverse trail systems in Edmonton. Whether you’re walking, running, biking, or snowshoeing, there’s a path for you here. The network includes both gravel and dirt trails, steep hills for mountain bikers, and smooth loops for casual walks.
For hikers and walkers, there are flat scenic trails that weave through forested groves and along the riverbank. Benches along some routes offer perfect rest stops with beautiful views. If you’re into cycling, you’ll love the single-track mountain biking trails that twist through the trees and offer technical fun for all skill levels.
The highlight of the trail system is the Terwillegar Footbridge, a stunning 262-meter-long structure that links the park to the north side of the river and Oleskiw River Valley Park. This bridge not only expands your hiking possibilities but also provides a panoramic view of the river—especially gorgeous at sunset.
In the winter, the trails remain active with fat bikers and cross-country skiers, though not all trails are groomed. Snowshoers can also explore open areas for a peaceful winter workout.
Whether you prefer a leisurely riverside stroll or an adrenaline-pumping bike ride, Terwillegar Park has a trail for every pace.
River Activities: Paddling, Fishing & Beach Time
If you’re drawn to water, Terwillegar Park won’t disappoint. The North Saskatchewan River hugs the park’s edge, offering fantastic opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The gentle flow and scenic views make it one of the most relaxing paddling spots in Edmonton.
The park features a natural boat launch, allowing you to enter the water safely with your paddle gear. Many locals launch from here and float downstream to other parks, or simply paddle along the bend and back for a quick workout. The river is relatively calm in summer, but always check flow conditions and wear safety gear.
Fishing is also popular here. The North Saskatchewan is home to species like walleye, goldeye, and northern pike. Quiet fishing spots along the bank make for a peaceful afternoon with nature.
Even if you’re not paddling or fishing, the riverbank is perfect for picnics and relaxation. Some spots are sandy or pebbly—ideal for dipping your feet in or enjoying the sound of flowing water. Just be cautious in spring or after heavy rain when water levels rise quickly.
The mix of water and trail access makes Terwillegar an outdoor playground for every kind of adventurer.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
Planning ahead can make your trip to Terwillegar Park even more enjoyable. Here are some top tips for visitors:
Parking and Access
The main parking lot is located at the end of Rabbit Hill Road NW, and it’s free to use. It fills up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arrive early for the best spots. No transit stops reach directly into the park, so driving or biking in is recommended.
Amenities
- Portable washrooms are available near the parking lot.
- There are no food vendors, so bring your own snacks or picnic lunch.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during summer visits.
- Download a trail map or use your GPS to avoid getting lost on deeper trails.
Safety and Respect
- Keep pets under control—even off-leash.
- Pack out all trash, and use bins provided.
- Respect wildlife—don’t feed animals or disturb habitats.
- Use sunscreen, bug spray, and appropriate footwear.
- In winter, wear ice cleats or snow grips on icy trails.
Being prepared ensures a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable time at this beautiful natural escape.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Terwillegar Park
Terwillegar Park is more than just a park—it’s a full-fledged nature experience that caters to everyone. From dog owners and mountain bikers to families, birdwatchers, and paddlers, this Edmonton gem offers something special for every visitor. Its combination of scenic views, sprawling trails, and direct river access makes it a versatile and beloved destination in all four seasons.
The park’s raw beauty, community atmosphere, and commitment to outdoor recreation make it one of the best places to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature in Edmonton. Whether you visit for an hour or a whole day, you’ll leave feeling refreshed—and likely planning your next return.