The Northeast River Valley Park provides students with a fresh summer study spot
By Jeremy Russo on April 23, 2025
Spring has sprung, and as summer begins peaking behind the clouds, students get to say hello to a much freer schedule and a new, secret hidden park.
If you have the privilege of opening your schedule in the coming weeks, you may be at a crossroads regarding where to spend your free time.
Not all parks make the headlines (until now), which is what makes some special.
Northeast River Valley Park opened just two years ago, quietly opening its gates. Due to its secluded location off Anthony Henday Drive in Edmonton, ALTA, it is still flying under the radar.
Hidden from the city’s usual noise, feeling like a breath of fresh air from Edmonton’s urban themes.
The park’s winding paths, lush greenery and views could rival any postcard – making you feel like you’re at your sweet, secret escape.
Here’s why this underrated spot deserves a slot in your weekend list:
The nature & environment
The crystal blue water, a moated playground, wildlife and rolling hills.
Shall I go on?
Northeast River Valley Park has a modern, woodsy, 12,000-square-foot event centre accommodating up to 1000 guests. It also provides built-in audio and visual equipment to ensure that all your favourite ceremonies and memories are captured.
Northeast River Valley Park is breathtaking, no matter the season. Developing new vibes every few months. Autumn leaves, spring blooms and summer picnics.
Don’t want to wait? Time your trip with the sunset to see the perfect golden hour shine onto the park as the colours of the sky are mirrored onto the lakes.
Your lifestyle and wellness
Northeast River Valley Park provides more than just study benefits. Journaling, introverting or just wanting to breathe, the scene provides peace without isolation. You’ll still feel connected to the location.
If solo trips aren’t for you, bring a couple of friends for an uncrowded walk or a frisbee toss.
It seems much more enjoyable than an expensive, loud café. Agree?
This park’s tranquil scene allows you to listen to the song of birds chirping in the trees, echoing through the paths, and soak up the beauty, all while walking your dog.
Underrated & Undiscovered
Two years ago, in 2023, Northeast River Valley Park opened its gate after the 190-acre property previously known as “Our Lady Queen of Peace Ranch.”
The land was renamed and repurposed into the River Valley Park system.
It’s still kind of a secret!
This means there are rarely any crowds and never a fight for a picnic table.
There’s always something magical about a place that is not swarmed by everyone. Most students don’t know the park exists, which seems crazy, as it’s so close and worth it.
It’s easy to overlook places of beauty, when you’re caught up in deadlines and daily life, but this perfect park is worth every detour.
Call a friend, grab a pen and your journal and see what makes this spot your new, favourite study spot.