If you’re looking for an easy hike near Edmonton, the Devon River Valley Trail is a hidden gem nestled beside the North Saskatchewan River. The Devon River Valley is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with around 10 km of multi-use paved trails that are perfect for an evening stroll. I’m sure your four-legged friend will think so, too.
Last Updated: March 28, 2024
Back in July 2021, I took a quick trip from Calgary to Edmonton for work and stopped to explore the Devon River Valley on the way. Bella the Berner and I arrived in the evening and enjoyed a short walk along the riverside. As a fairly easy stroll with the challenge of climbing nearly 300 steps, I would say the Devon River Valley is worth checking out.
This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
About Devon River Valley Trail
Location: Devon, Alberta
Distance: 4 km out and back
Difficulty: Easy (or moderate due to stairs)
Elevation: 63 metre gain
Time: 45 mins – 1 hour
Dog-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on a leash.
Features: The Devon River Valley Trail is more than meets the eye and makes an excellent detour en route to Edmonton from Calgary or vice versa. While Devon River Valley may not be the most sought-after destination, you will enjoy exploring this park only 30 minutes from Edmonton. Climb over 295 steps on the Legs of Fire Stairs down to the North Saskatchewan River and back up again after strolling through the forest and along the riverbank. If nothing else, Devon River Valley will give you a good leg workout, plus you’ll have access to paved and unpaved trails, beaches, and picnic tables.
Devon River Valley Trail Map
Finding the Trailhead
There are a few different parking options for Devon’s River Valley Trail. I wanted to start with the Legs of Fire Stairs so I parked on River Drive not far off the Devonian Way Highway. You can use Google Maps directions for easy navigation. With no other cars next to the stairs, I figured the trail would be quiet. There was also an outhouse next to the trailhead.
If you’d like to start from the other direction, find ample parking at the Voyageur Park Parking Lot next to the boat launch accessed on Saskatchewan Avenue West.
Read next: Amisk Wuche Trail: Easy Elk Island Hike Near Edmonton
Devon River Valley Trail — Family-Friendly Hike Near Edmonton
The Devon River Valley is a wonderful place to escape the city crowds. Start by walking down close nearly 80 metres to the water’s edge on the Legs of Fire Stairs. I counted 295 steps but some say there are over 300. Don’t forget, what goes down, must come up! After the stairs, walk along the North Saskatchewan River on your way to Voyageur Park. Bella and I walked through the forest and eventually found beach access with scenic views of the riverbank. If you want to sit and enjoy the scenery, find an empty picnic table or bench to relax. There are several nice spots to rest by the water.
Overall, this is a fairly short and family-friendly walk of about 4 km with minimal elevation change. You will like this place if you’re interested in scenic river views and a decent leg workout in about 45 minutes to an hour. One of my favourite aspects of this trail was stopping to read each of the “Mental Health Capacity Building” lawn signs along the way. Helpful and practical reminders to take care of ourselves mentally. Honestly, I’ve never seen this in a park before. Way to go, Devon!
Read next: Douglas Fir Trail in Calgary’s Edworthy Park
Voyageur Park in Devon, Alberta
Devon River Valley Trail eventually meets up with Voyageur Park, a true sanctuary for wildlife and people alike. When I visited, it was a chilly and peaceful evening stroll. Everyone I crossed paths with seemed to be enjoying themselves. I was impressed by the amount of space and well-maintained trail infrastructure. You will find garbage bins and outhouses along the way, including washrooms near the boat launch. If you’re bringing your dog, remember to pack out their poop and bring a smell-proof bag along. On this short walk, it’s also easy to find a garbage bin to toss dog waste. After a brief stop in the Voyageur Park area, Bella and I turned around to retrace our steps back to the car.
Read next: Biking in Edmonton: The Beautiful River Valley Trails
Know Before You Go
This is a beautiful park in a small community. Visitors should make a special effort to make sure they’re taking care of the trails. That means staying on marked paths, picking up after your dog, and leaving no trace. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints. As I mentioned, this is a very well-maintained trail with toilets and garbage cans available.
Initially, I drove down by the golf course looking for the trailhead, where the Devon River Valley Trail extends. If I had more time, I would have walked more of the trail but instead started near the Legs of Fire stairs. Here’s a map of the area to plan your visit.
Devon River Valley is a short “hike” that’s more of a walking trail. That being said, you may want to bring a day pack with a water bottle and snacks for your outing. I typically carry a rain jacket just in case and bring a first aid kit in case any minor injuries need treating. Keep your dog on a leash and respect wildlife and other visitors.
Read next: 10 Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike
Have you walked the Devon River Valley Trail? Do you have another favourite walking trail near Edmonton? Leave a comment below!
Save this for later? Hover over the image to add to Pinterest!
Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
The Devon River Valley Trail offers stunning landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Are there any guided tours available for the Devon River Valley Trail?