Hawrelak Park | Edmonton

Information

Landmark: Hawrelak Park
City: Edmonton
Country: Canada
Continent: North America

Hawrelak Park, Edmonton, Canada, North America

Hawrelak Park is a municipal park located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is situated on the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Visual Characteristics

The park covers 68 hectares. It features a central lake, approximately 1.2 kilometers in circumference, surrounded by mature deciduous and coniferous trees. Open grassy areas are interspersed throughout the park. The lake is fed by the North Saskatchewan River and has a maximum depth of 3 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

Hawrelak Park is located at 9330 Groat Road NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 1G7. It is approximately 5 kilometers west of the Edmonton city center. Access is via Groat Road NW. The park has multiple parking lots with a combined capacity of over 1,000 vehicles. Public transport is available via Edmonton Transit Service bus routes, with stops located at the park entrance on Groat Road.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1967 and named after former Edmonton Mayor William Hawrelak. The land was part of the North Saskatchewan River valley, a glacial meltwater channel. The central lake was created through excavation and landscaping.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking and cycling on paved pathways, picnicking at designated sites, boating (non-motorized) on the lake during warmer months, and attending outdoor events at the Heritage Amphitheatre. Fishing is permitted in the lake. Winter activities include ice skating on the lake (weather permitting) and cross-country skiing on designated trails.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park contains multiple washroom facilities, picnic shelters with tables and grills, and playgrounds. Shade is provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the park. Food vendors are typically present during peak season and special events; otherwise, nearby commercial areas are accessible via Groat Road.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination of the landscape. The best months for outdoor activities are May through September, with July and August offering the warmest temperatures. The lake is typically ice-free from late April to mid-October.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the Heritage Amphitheatre, which hosts numerous concerts and festivals annually. The park's lake is home to various waterfowl species, including mallards and geese.