8 Best Driving Roads in Edmonton, Alberta: A Scenic Guide

1 Comment / Blog, TIPS & GUIDES / By

Edmonton, Alberta, is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and dynamic urban landscapes. Beyond its city limits, however, lies a wealth of scenic driving routes that offer breathtaking views, unique attractions, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, hitting the road on these picturesque routes will undoubtedly be a highlight of your journey. Here’s a detailed guide to the best driving roads in and around Edmonton, Alberta, along with the scenic spots that make them exceptional.

Table of Contents

1. Whitemud Drive

Best Driving Roads in Edmonton
Best Driving Roads in Edmonton

Images Via Google

Overview

Whitemud Drive is one of Edmonton’s primary thoroughfares, stretching from the west to the east end of the city. This multi-lane freeway offers a smooth and efficient drive, with several interchanges that connect to other major roads.

Scenic Spots

  • Whitemud Creek Ravine: As you drive along Whitemud Drive, you’ll pass by the lush greenery of Whitemud Creek Ravine. The ravine offers a serene escape within the city, with walking trails and a variety of wildlife.
  • Rainbow Valley Park: Located near the south side of Whitemud Drive, Rainbow Valley Park is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park features picturesque views and a suspension bridge over Whitemud Creek.

2. Anthony Henday Drive (Highway 216)

Best Driving Roads in Edmonton
Best Driving Roads in Edmonton

Images Via Google

Overview

Anthony Henday Drive, also known as Highway 216, is a ring road that encircles Edmonton. This highway provides an excellent driving experience with well-maintained roads and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Scenic Spots

  • Elk Island National Park: A short detour from Anthony Henday Drive will take you to Elk Island National Park. This park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to see bison, elk, and a variety of bird species. The park’s serene lakes and lush forests make it a perfect spot for a scenic drive and a day trip.
  • River Valley: The North Saskatchewan River Valley is visible from several points along Anthony Henday Drive. This expansive green space is the largest urban park in Canada and provides stunning views of the river, rolling hills, and dense forests.

3. Jasper Avenue

Images Via Google

Overview

Jasper Avenue is Edmonton’s main street, running through the heart of downtown. This historic avenue offers a mix of urban and scenic views, with a vibrant atmosphere and numerous points of interest.

Scenic Spots

  • Legislature Grounds: Driving along Jasper Avenue, you’ll pass the Alberta Legislature Building. The surrounding grounds are beautifully landscaped with fountains, gardens, and walking paths, making it a picturesque spot in the city.
  • Victoria Park: Located just off Jasper Avenue, Victoria Park offers stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and downtown Edmonton. The park is a great place to stop for a walk or a photo opportunity.

4. Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway)

Images Via Google

Overview

Highway 16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway, is a major east-west route that runs through Edmonton. This highway offers a gateway to some of Alberta’s most stunning landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains.

Scenic Spots

  • Elk Island National Park: As mentioned earlier, this park is easily accessible from Highway 16. It’s a must-visit for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife.
  • Mundare: A small town located east of Edmonton along Highway 16, Mundare is famous for its giant sausage statue. It’s a quirky and fun roadside attraction that’s worth a quick stop.

5. River Valley Road

Images Via Google

Overview

River Valley Road is a scenic route that winds through Edmonton’s expansive river valley. This drive offers stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and the surrounding natural beauty.

Scenic Spots

  • Hawrelak Park: One of Edmonton’s largest parks, Hawrelak Park, is located along River Valley Road. The park features a picturesque lake, walking trails, and open green spaces, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely drive and a relaxing day out.
  • Laurier Park: Another beautiful park along River Valley Road, Laurier Park, offers river views, picnic areas, and a zoo. The park is a great place to stop and enjoy the natural surroundings.

6. Highway 2 (Queen Elizabeth II Highway)

Images Via Google

Overview

Highway 2, also known as the Queen Elizabeth II Highway (QE2), connects Edmonton to Calgary. This major route offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with opportunities for scenic detours along the way.

Scenic Spots

  • Devon: A charming town located just west of Highway 2, Devon offers beautiful views of the North Saskatchewan River. The Devonian Botanic Garden, located nearby, is a must-visit for its stunning plant collections and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Leduc: South of Edmonton, Leduc is a growing city with scenic parks and walking trails. Telford Lake is a popular spot for water activities and offers picturesque views.

7. Highway 60

Images Via Google

Overview

Highway 60, also known as Devonian Way, connects Edmonton to the town of Devon. This scenic route offers beautiful views of the countryside and easy access to several attractions.

Scenic Spots

  • Devonian Botanic Garden: As mentioned earlier, this garden is a highlight along Highway 60. It’s a beautiful spot to explore and enjoy a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a butterfly house.
  • Bighorn Dam: Located further west along Highway 60, Bighorn Dam offers stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty.

8. Groat Road

Images Via Google

Overview

Groat Road is a major thoroughfare in Edmonton that runs through the city’s river valley. This winding road offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, with several points of interest along the way.

Scenic Spots

  • Hawrelak Park: As mentioned earlier, Hawrelak Park is easily accessible from Groat Road. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park.
  • Victoria Park: Also accessible from Groat Road, Victoria Park offers beautiful river views and a peaceful atmosphere. The park is a great place for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Conclusion

Edmonton, Alberta, is blessed with a diverse range of driving roads that offer stunning scenery, unique attractions, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re exploring the city’s urban landscapes or venturing into the surrounding countryside, these routes provide the perfect backdrop for a scenic drive. From the lush greenery of the river valley to the open expanses of the highways, each road has its own charm and highlights. So, buckle up, hit the road, and discover the beauty of Edmonton’s best driving roads.

FAQ: Best Driving Roads in Edmonton, Alberta

1. What are the best driving roads in Edmonton, Alberta?

The best driving roads in Edmonton include Whitemud Drive, Anthony Henday Drive (Highway 216), Jasper Avenue, Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway), River Valley Road, Highway 2 (Queen Elizabeth II Highway), Highway 60, and Groat Road. These routes offer a mix of urban and scenic views, making them ideal for a memorable drive.

2. What scenic spots can I see along Whitemud Drive?

Along Whitemud Drive, you can enjoy the lush greenery of Whitemud Creek Ravine and visit Rainbow Valley Park, which features beautiful views and a suspension bridge over Whitemud Creek.

3. Is Anthony Henday Drive good for a scenic drive?

Yes, Anthony Henday Drive is excellent for a scenic drive. You can take a short detour to Elk Island National Park, where you can see bison and elk, or enjoy views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley from various points along the route.

4. What attractions are near Jasper Avenue?

Jasper Avenue runs through downtown Edmonton and offers several attractions, including the Alberta Legislature Building and its beautifully landscaped grounds, as well as Victoria Park, which provides stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and downtown Edmonton.

5. What can I see along Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway)?

Highway 16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway, provides access to Elk Island National Park and the charming town of Mundare, known for its giant sausage statue. Both spots offer unique and memorable experiences.

6. Are there parks to visit along River Valley Road?

Yes, River Valley Road winds through Edmonton’s expansive river valley, offering access to Hawrelak Park and Laurier Park. Both parks provide beautiful river views, walking trails, and picnic areas.

7. What can I see along Highway 2 (Queen Elizabeth II Highway)?

Along Highway 2, you can explore the town of Devon, which offers beautiful views of the North Saskatchewan River and the Devonian Botanic Garden. Further south, the city of Leduc features scenic parks and Telford Lake, popular for water activities.

8. What is there to see on Highway 60?

Highway 60, also known as Devonian Way, connects Edmonton to Devon. Highlights include the Devonian Botanic Garden with its stunning plant collections and the Bighorn Dam, offering spectacular views of the North Saskatchewan River.

9. What can I see along Groat Road?

Groat Road offers a mix of urban and natural scenery. Notable stops include Hawrelak Park and Victoria Park, both of which provide beautiful views and peaceful atmospheres for relaxation and leisure.

10. Can I see wildlife on these driving routes?

Yes, particularly near Elk Island National Park along Anthony Henday Drive and Highway 16. The park is home to bison, elk, and various bird species, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

11. What is the best time to drive these routes?

The best time to drive these routes is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is lush and vibrant. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, making it another great time for a scenic drive.

12. Are there any safety tips for driving in Edmonton?

Always obey speed limits and road signs, be cautious of wildlife, especially near parks, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. During winter, be prepared for icy conditions and drive carefully.

1 thought on “8 Best Driving Roads in Edmonton, Alberta: A Scenic Guide”

  1. Pingback: How to Get Tar Off Your Car: A 6 Step Comprehensive Guide - Topshotwheels

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *