Emily Murphy Park
A serene urban oasis in Edmonton's River Valley, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and connecting with the North Saskatchewan River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Emily Murphy Park
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis in Edmonton's River Valley, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and connecting with the North Saskatchewan River.
"This park is absolutely wonderful! It's a perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy nature."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and stairs. Trails can be uneven in places. Good footwear is a must for exploring.
Check for events :calendar:
Community BBQs and walks happen here. Great way to meet people and enjoy the park's vibe.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
North Saskatchewan River Access
Canoe Launch Area
Launch your kayak or canoe for a peaceful paddle, or simply enjoy the scenic riverside views. A perfect spot for nature lovers.
River Valley Trails
Park-wide
Explore miles of well-maintained multi-use trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. Connects to Hawrelak Park and beyond.
Emily Murphy Stairs
Near the park entrance
Challenge yourself with these steep stairs for a great workout and rewarding city views. A popular spot for fitness enthusiasts.
Picnic & BBQ Areas
Throughout the park
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with numerous picnic tables and BBQ pits. Some shelters are available for reservation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River Valley Trails
Seasonal Charm & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and stairs. Trails can be uneven in places. Good footwear is a must for exploring.
Check for events :calendar:
Community BBQs and walks happen here. Great way to meet people and enjoy the park's vibe.
Watch for cyclists :cyclist:
Multi-use trails mean bikes share the path. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially with kids.
Pack a picnic :sandwich:
Plenty of spots to enjoy a meal. BBQ pits are available for grilling up a feast.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and stairs. Trails can be uneven in places. Good footwear is a must for exploring.
Check for events :calendar:
Community BBQs and walks happen here. Great way to meet people and enjoy the park's vibe.
Watch for cyclists :cyclist:
Multi-use trails mean bikes share the path. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially with kids.
Pack a picnic :sandwich:
Plenty of spots to enjoy a meal. BBQ pits are available for grilling up a feast.
River float launch :kayak:
Ideal starting point for a float down the North Saskatchewan River. Check water levels and conditions.
Statue history :statue_of_liberty:
Learn about Emily Murphy and the 'Persons Case' near the park's namesake statue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Emily Murphy Park's natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Its accessibility and family-friendly amenities, including a playground and picnic areas, are frequently praised. While generally well-kept, some note that parking can be challenging during peak times and cyclists require vigilance on shared paths.
"This park is absolutely wonderful! It’s a perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy nature. The walking trails are beautifully maintained and surrounded by lush greenery, which makes every stroll feel peaceful and refreshing. There are plenty of benches and picnic areas where you can sit and take in the scenery, and the open spaces are great for kids to run around and play.
What really stands out is how clean and well-kept the entire park is — you can tell the staff and visitors really care about keeping it beautiful. There’s also a playground, which is perfect for families with young children, and lots of shady spots for a quiet moment with a book or just to watch the world go by.
It’s an amazing place to visit any time of year — whether it’s sunny and warm or covered in a blanket of snow, it always feels magical. Highly recommend spending some time here if you’re looking for a peaceful escape in the middle of the city!"
Joy Uncle
"1. Picnic Facilities
- Multiple picnic sites with fire pits and tables
- Covered shelters available (some reservable)
2. Access to Nature & Trails
- Connected to multi-use trails for walking, biking, and jogging
- Leads to Hawrelak Park, Kinsmen, and river valley trail system
3. River Access
- Canoe/kayak launch spot on the North Saskatchewan River
- Beautiful riverside views and peaceful atmosphere
4. Parking & Accessibility
- Ample parking, including space for larger groups
- Easy access for families and groups"
Shaikh Sahib
"This is a smallish park in the river valley. It celebrates Emily Murphy (along with others) who challenged that women were not considered persons under the British North America Act. That part of the Act was amended to mean women ARE persons under the act thanks to her efforts.
In any case, the Park isn't very big and is just down from the U of A and is very accessible. There are washrooms, picnic tables and bbq for anyone to use.
The trails run along the river and through the park and there were quite a few joggers, walkers and hikers using them.
It's fairly quiet although you can here the city sounds impinging on the peace somewhat.
If you're in the area by the university and need some time out of traffic and bustle come pay Emily Murphy a visit to restore your calm."
R Holtslander
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emily Murphy Park is easily accessible by car, located at 11904 Emily Murphy Park Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B6. It's situated near the University of Alberta. Public transit options are also available, with bus routes serving the university area, followed by a short walk into the park.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Emily Murphy Park, including space for larger groups and RVs. Parking can fill up quickly on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Emily Murphy Park is part of Edmonton's extensive River Valley trail system, making it very bike-friendly. You can cycle directly to the park via the multi-use trails.
Emily Murphy Park is located south of downtown Edmonton, across the North Saskatchewan River. It's a short drive or a longer bike ride from the city center, offering a peaceful escape within the urban landscape.
Several Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) buses serve the University of Alberta area, which is a short walk from Emily Murphy Park. Check the official ETS website for the most current routes and schedules that align with your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Emily Murphy Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its amenities and natural beauty free of charge.
Emily Murphy Park is generally open from dawn until dusk year-round. However, specific facilities like washrooms may have limited hours. It's always a good idea to check the City of Edmonton Parks website for any seasonal closures or updates.
While some picnic areas are first-come, first-served, it is highly recommended to reserve covered shelters, especially for larger gatherings or during peak seasons, to guarantee your spot.
Yes, the park often hosts community events, including BBQs and organized walks. Keep an eye on local event listings or social media for announcements. 
The BBQ pits themselves are free to use on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to bring your own charcoal or propane, depending on the type of pit available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking and biking on the trails, picnicking, BBQs, launching kayaks or canoes, and even tackling the Emily Murphy Stairs for a workout. It's a versatile park for outdoor recreation.
Yes, there is a playground area within Emily Murphy Park, making it a great destination for families with young children.
While there is river access for boating, swimming in the North Saskatchewan River is generally not recommended due to currents and water quality. Stick to kayaking or canoeing for water activities.
The trails are multi-use, so be aware of cyclists. Walking, jogging, and biking are all popular. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided walk or a leisurely bike ride to connect with nature.
Absolutely! The park offers beautiful riverside views, lush greenery, and seasonal colors, making it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Emily Murphy Park. However, there are numerous picnic areas and BBQ pits for you to bring your own food. Nearby areas like Whyte Avenue offer a wide range of dining options.
Yes, Emily Murphy Park has several BBQ pits available for public use. It's a popular spot for summer cookouts. Remember to bring your own grilling supplies.
Sandwiches, salads, fruit, and pre-cooked items are great for picnics. If you're using the BBQ pits, burgers, hot dogs, and grilled vegetables are popular choices.
Water fountains are typically available in the park, especially near the washrooms and playground areas. It's always a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle.
While not explicitly prohibited, food delivery services might find it challenging to locate specific picnic spots. It's generally easier to bring your own food or pick it up from a nearby establishment before arriving.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks offer stunning views, especially during golden hour. The trails winding through the trees provide beautiful natural backdrops, and the Emily Murphy Stairs offer a unique urban-nature blend.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, with golden hour casting a warm glow over the park and river. Midday can be harsh, but the shade of the trees offers some relief.
The statue of Emily Murphy (though recently vandalized) and the canoe launch area by the river are notable landmarks. The bridges in the distance also make for picturesque backdrops.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and portraits. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river valley, and a telephoto lens can isolate details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
Drone usage in city parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the City of Edmonton's bylaws and Transport Canada's guidelines regarding drone operation in public spaces before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site. The river access can be a point of interest for kids, but always supervise children closely near the water. The park's natural beauty also offers opportunities for simple nature exploration, like looking for birds or interesting plants.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
The park's connection to the larger River Valley trail system means you can embark on longer, more immersive nature walks. The early morning hours are particularly peaceful, with fewer people and the soft light of sunrise enhancing the natural beauty. It's an ideal spot to read a book, meditate, or simply reconnect with nature.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
The extensive trail system is perfect for runners and cyclists, providing varied routes and distances. Many visitors use the park for interval training or bootcamp-style exercises in the open fields. The natural setting provides a refreshing change from indoor gyms. Remember to bring water and be mindful of other park users sharing the trails.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the River Valley Trails
When exploring, remember that these trails are shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and sometimes even rollerbladers. It's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings and be courteous to other users. Cyclists often move at a faster pace, so it's advisable to keep to the right side of the path and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, consider a float down the North Saskatchewan River. Emily Murphy Park is a popular launch point for kayaks, canoes, and even inflatable rafts. The float from Emily Murphy Park to Capilano Park, for instance, takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers a unique perspective of the river valley.
Always check river conditions and water levels before embarking on any river activity.The Significance of Emily Murphy
The park itself, while a beautiful natural space, also serves as a subtle reminder of this important historical struggle. Visitors can learn more about Emily Murphy's contributions and the broader fight for gender equality. The park's location near the University of Alberta also places it in a hub of intellectual and cultural activity, further underscoring the importance of historical figures who paved the way for future generations.
While the park celebrates her legacy, it's worth noting that the statue honoring Emily Murphy was unfortunately stolen, leaving only its shoes behind. This incident highlights the ongoing need to protect and commemorate historical figures and their contributions to society.
Fitness and Recreation at the Park
Beyond the stairs, the extensive network of multi-use trails is ideal for running, jogging, and cycling. These trails wind through the park and connect to the larger River Valley system, offering varied terrain and scenic routes. The open spaces within the park are also perfect for outdoor yoga, stretching, or simply enjoying a brisk walk.
For those seeking a more relaxed form of recreation, the park offers picnic areas and BBQ facilities, encouraging leisurely outdoor dining. The canoe and kayak launch also provides an opportunity for water-based fitness, allowing you to paddle along the North Saskatchewan River.
Whether you're looking for a high-intensity workout or a gentle way to enjoy the outdoors, Emily Murphy Park caters to a wide range of fitness interests.
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