I have decided to avoid the rest of the south river parks until the big festivals and events are over for the summer. The crush of people is more than I am looking for. I am enjoying peace and solitude with my Captain. Work and life has been hectic so quiet walks are what I crave.
The Captain and I headed for one of my favourite neighborhoods, Rossdale. I’m totally open to moving there because one of the city’s best kept secrets is Irene Parlby Park. She was one of the Famous 5. The group of women who fought to make women people under the law 100 years ago.
I have run through this park many times, driving and parking was complicated. There was a ball game at Telus field so restricted parking was in effect. I found a 2 hour spot over by Diamond Park.
We walked about 500 meters south to reach the park.
We walked under James MacDonald Bridge to reach the green space I was looking for.
It is a non traditional River valley park. There are no picnic spots or fire pits. However, there are lovely small gardens and bench spots for sitting.
Captain and l walked the path not taken along the river first with the intent to double back on the paved multi-use path.
With the river to our left we could see Nellie McClung and Queen Elziabeth Parks across the water.
I was on the lookout for Saskatoon berries but only found Mountain Ash in full berry.
We came to a fallen log that was blocking out path. A makeshift bridge was created to traverse it. It took a while to convince Cap he could make the jump.
We traveled further down the path. It felt like wilderness but homes and the formal path were only yards away.
The main jogging loop has been closed for a few years while the Walterdale replacement bridge goes up. A permanent gate blocks access.
We turned west out of the park to walk the residential block.
This led to the next park entrance and a lovely playground.
We came to a lovely statue in the middle of a formal garden which turned out to be a Pokéstop.
We continued north back towards the end of the park and found ourselves sharing the path with other cyclists, skaters and runners.
Such a lovely spot in the middle of the city, yet it was quiet and felt like the middle of nowhere. I’m looking forward to the trails opening up to reach Walterdale. I’ll be back, and often.
Musings of The Edmonton Tourist 
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