Pipedream & Cambodia Trail

I discovered the Pipedream and Cambodia trails on a hike in the Spring of 2014. They’re a couple of Edmonton’s hidden jems, known to mountain bikers and hikers alike. These are not official city-maintained trails and they’re not on any map. From what little I can gather, the trails are maintained by Edmonton’s robust and active mountain bike community. Unfortunately, the approach to the trails has recently been compromised by deteriorating river banks and trail collapses. The paths are somewhat dangerous, but they’re still accessible on foot.

Image from The PipeDream Trail Hike
Trail sign, PipeDream Trail

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Elizabeth Lake Trail - Lacombe

The city of Lacombe is located 120km south of Edmonton on Highway 2, just north of Red Deer. The city is home to just over 10,000 people, and it has a well-developed and fairly extensive trail system. A two-way paved track runs from the north east corner of the city clear down to the Town of Blackfalds, located 12km to the south. Inside the city of Lacombe, there are three major lakes: Barnett, Cranna, and Elizabeth. All have perimeter trails, and all offer differing degrees of “wildness”. This post covers Elizabeth Lake.

Image from the Elizabeth Lake Lacombe AB hike
Trailhead signage

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Government House - MacKinnon Ravine

Government House Park is a well-positioned jumping off point for walking, running, and cycling. From the parking area, one can walk, run, or bike in almost any direction. MacKinnon and Ramsay ravines lie to the west. The ever-popular multi-use trail on River Valley Road stretches eastward to the Walterdale Bridge. Hawrelak and Emily Murphy Parks are easily reached via the Groat Bridge and provide access to the University and, a ways down the trail, Whitemud Park.

Image from The Government House MacKinnon Ravine Hike
Government House Park

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