William Hawrelak Park Edmonton
Edmonton's sprawling river valley park with a lake, trails, picnic sites, and vibrant festival grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
William Hawrelak Park Edmonton
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edmonton's sprawling river valley park with a lake, trails, picnic sites, and vibrant festival grounds.
"A beautiful park in the middle of the city, offering a great escape with paddleboats and festivals."
🎯 Book Picnic Sites Early
Reserve covered picnic sites in advance, especially for weekend gatherings. Some sites might have trash after busy weekends.
☔ Shakespeare Rain Plan
Bring an umbrella for Shakespeare in the Park. While there's a tent, securing a good spot can be tricky.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Heritage Days Festival
Main festival grounds
Experience vibrant cultural displays, music, food, and traditional costumes from around the world.

Man-Made Lake & Paddleboats
Central lake
Rent a paddleboat and enjoy the scenic views of the park from the water, complete with a central fountain.

Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for Canadian geese, ducks, and other waterfowl, especially in spring with adorable ducklings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Festival Fun & Crowds
Picnic & Paddleboat Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Picnic Sites Early
Reserve covered picnic sites in advance, especially for weekend gatherings. Some sites might have trash after busy weekends.
☔ Shakespeare Rain Plan
Bring an umbrella for Shakespeare in the Park. While there's a tent, securing a good spot can be tricky.
🚗 Parking During Events
Parking lots can fill up quickly during festivals. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
🦢 Wildlife Encounters
Enjoy spotting geese and ducks, especially in spring. Remember to observe from a distance and not feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Picnic Sites Early
Reserve covered picnic sites in advance, especially for weekend gatherings. Some sites might have trash after busy weekends.
☔ Shakespeare Rain Plan
Bring an umbrella for Shakespeare in the Park. While there's a tent, securing a good spot can be tricky.
🚗 Parking During Events
Parking lots can fill up quickly during festivals. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
🦢 Wildlife Encounters
Enjoy spotting geese and ducks, especially in spring. Remember to observe from a distance and not feed them.
🌮 Festival Food Delights
Explore diverse food options at festivals like Heritage Days. Birria tacos are a must-try!
🛶 Lakeside Patio Views
Discover the lakeside patio for a relaxing meal with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise William Hawrelak Park for its natural beauty within the city, diverse recreational activities like paddleboating and trails, and its role as a vibrant hub for festivals. While generally well-maintained, some note occasional litter after busy weekends.
"I love hawrelak park. Beauty in the middle of the city. Paddle boots available to rent. Picnic sites can be reserved although some sites have trash after weekend parties. Generally very clean though. Fountain in the middle of man made lake is cool. Lot of shade from trees for any hot day."
Ajaypal singh
"Huge park that hosts tons of different festivals. We enjoyed Heritage Days this past weekend and had a fantastic time. The weather was great and the different "countries" we visited were great! Music, food, beautiful costumes abounded. Looking forward to our next festival!"
Mickiee S
"I loved the sculptures made in the park, there’s always something new in here, every season has its own colour. Ice skating for kids and adults, jogging and biking and walking can do many things in winters
Spring is here and park is so very busy on weekends, all benches and all the bbq were occupied, Parking lots we’re almost full."
jyoti wagawade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
William Hawrelak Park is located in Edmonton's river valley, accessible by car via major roads like Groat Road. Public transit options are also available, with bus routes serving the park area. Parking lots are available, but can fill up quickly during events and on weekends.
Yes, there are parking lots within the park. However, they tend to fill up rapidly during festivals and on busy weekend days. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Hawrelak Park is part of Edmonton's extensive river valley trail system, making it a great destination for cyclists. There are many scenic biking trails leading to the park.
The park is well-connected to the North Saskatchewan River valley trail network. Popular routes include those along the riverbanks, offering beautiful views on your way.
Yes, several Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) bus routes stop near or at William Hawrelak Park, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive. Check the ETS schedule for specific route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
William Hawrelak Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access. However, specific events or festivals held within the park may have their own admission charges.
For many festivals like Heritage Days, tickets might be required for entry or specific attractions. It's best to check the official event website in advance for ticketing information and to purchase tickets.
William Hawrelak Park is typically open from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary seasonally, and access may be restricted during certain events or for maintenance.
Yes, covered picnic sites can be reserved in advance, which is highly recommended for weekends and larger groups. Contact the City of Edmonton for reservation details.
No, William Hawrelak Park is open to all ages. It's a family-friendly destination with activities suitable for everyone.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking and biking on trails, rent paddleboats on the lake, have picnics, attend festivals, and in winter, ice skate. The park also features sculptures and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Yes, there is a large, man-made lake in the center of William Hawrelak Park. Paddleboats are available for rent during warmer months, and it features a fountain in the middle.
Certainly! Hawrelak Park offers numerous hiking and biking trails, many of which are part of the larger Edmonton river valley trail system. The 1.2-mile loop trail is popular for walking and birding.
The park is home to various bird species, including Canadian geese, ducks, and seagulls. In spring, you might see baby ducklings and goslings.
Yes, the park is equipped with restrooms and other amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. Picnic sites often have nearby facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Hawrelak Park is a popular spot for picnics. There are many picnic sites, some covered, where you can enjoy your own food.
During festivals like Heritage Days, numerous food vendors offer a wide variety of cuisines. You can find everything from local favorites to international dishes.
While there isn't a permanent restaurant, some events might feature food trucks or temporary concessions. The lakeside patio offers a pleasant spot to enjoy snacks or light meals.
Festivals often showcase diverse culinary experiences. For example, Heritage Days offers a taste of various cultures, with options like birria tacos being a highlight.
Yes, some picnic sites are equipped with BBQ facilities, making it a great spot for a cookout. Remember to check availability and any regulations when booking a site.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake with its fountain, the scenic trails, and the abundant greenery offer great photo opportunities. Big rocks along the trails also make for interesting shots.
Yes, the park's wildlife, especially the geese and ducks, can be a joy to photograph. Spring is particularly rewarding with baby birds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
The park features various sculptures and art installations that add visual interest and make for unique photo subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, you can take photos during festivals, but be mindful of performers and attendees. Some events might have specific photography guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During festivals like Heritage Days, there are often activities and performances geared towards younger audiences. The abundance of wildlife, especially the ducklings and goslings in spring, provides an exciting educational opportunity for kids to observe nature up close. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, or explore the food options available during events.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Birdwatchers
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of waterfowl that inhabit the park's lake and surrounding areas. Keep an eye out for Canadian geese, various duck species, and seagulls. Spring is a particularly exciting time for spotting baby birds, making it a prime location for nature photography and quiet observation.
🎉 Festival Goers
Many festivals feature diverse food vendors, so come hungry! TikTok creators often rave about the unique food offerings, so be sure to try some local delicacies or international flavors. Check the event schedules in advance to make the most of your festival experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hawrelak Park's Trails
Many of these trails are integrated into Edmonton's extensive river valley trail system, allowing for longer adventures. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous bike ride, the park's varied terrain and scenic routes cater to all levels of fitness. Remember to wear comfortable athletic shoes and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Beyond the main paths, the park offers opportunities for birdwatching, with various species of waterfowl frequently spotted around the lake and waterways. The changing seasons bring different colors and experiences, from vibrant spring blooms to the crisp air of autumn, making it a year-round destination for trail lovers.
Festivals and Events at Hawrelak Park
Beyond Heritage Days, the park frequently hosts other events, from food festivals showcasing local culinary talent to community gatherings. These events are a fantastic way to experience the local culture and enjoy the park's amenities. TikTok creators often highlight the delicious food available at these festivals, with birria tacos being a particular favorite.
It's advisable to check the park's event calendar or the specific festival's website for dates, times, and ticketing information. Be prepared for larger crowds and potentially full parking lots during major events. Planning your visit around these festivities can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.
The Serene Lake and Recreational Activities
The lake also provides a scenic backdrop for relaxation. You can find benches along its perimeter or enjoy a picnic at one of the many covered picnic sites, some of which can be reserved in advance. The presence of various waterfowl, including ducks and geese, adds to the natural charm and offers opportunities for wildlife observation.
While paddleboating is a highlight, the lake area is also perfect for leisurely walks or simply enjoying the ambiance. The lakeside patio offers a convenient spot to grab a snack or a drink while taking in the views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit