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Parks

Government House Park

4.7 · 410 reviews
A quiet and scenic river-valley landscape.
Government House Park, 9938 Groat Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 3H9, Canada
Interesting facts
1

The park is situated on the site of the original 1913 Government House, which was replaced as the official residence in 1938.

2

The park provides direct access to the Victoria Park staircase, one of the main pedestrian links between the river valley and the downtown plateau.

3

Its location atop the riverbank offers a specific perspective of the Groat Bridge structure, which was completed in 1955.

4

The park is a frequent location for public commemorations and historical site markers relating to Alberta's early provincial governance.

Overview

Government House Park is a prominent riverside green space located in Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River valley. It serves as the primary outdoor grounds for the historic Government House, a 1913 sandstone building that formerly served as the official residence for Alberta's Lieutenant Governors. The park features a distinct sloped topography leading down toward the riverbank. It is integrated into the larger Edmonton river valley trail system, providing connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians. The site encompasses preserved natural forest patches alongside manicured lawn areas. It is situated adjacent to the Groat Bridge, acting as a transition point between the urban plateau and the river floodplains.

Photo spot

The north-facing vantage point looking toward the Groat Bridge with the river valley in the background.

Insider tips

Use the paved multi-use trails to connect your visit to the nearby Victoria Park or Hawrelak Park.

Bring binoculars if you intend to observe the diverse birdlife often found in the sheltered river valley basin.

The park is prone to high wind gusts due to its position near the bridge overpass; dress in layers.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the steep, unpaved embankment directly below the bridge, as it is unstable and environmentally sensitive.

Etiquette

Maintain noise levels during events at the nearby Government House; stay on designated trails to prevent slope erosion.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Late afternoon in summer, as the low sun illuminates the sandstone exterior of the adjacent Government House.
Address
Government House Park, 9938 Groat Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 3H9, Canada
53.540, -113.541
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasLimited benches along the main trail; heavy tree cover on the southern end.
Trail connectivityDirect access to the North Saskatchewan River valley multi-use trail network.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon in summer, as the low sun illuminates the sandstone exterior of the adjacent Government House..

The north-facing vantage point looking toward the Groat Bridge with the river valley in the background.

Close by you'll find Hawrelak Park, Edmonton Valley Zoo, Constable Ezio Faraone Park.