Take some time for yourself, let those boots do what they were made for and go walkin’. There is something about going for a brisk winter walk that lightens the soul, clears the head, and generally helps to improve your mood. Not to mention, that a daily 20-minute walk also brings a lot of physical health benefits. In Red Deer, we have big blue skies, lots of sunshine and more than 23 km of maintained winter trails for plenty of winter-walking options. Here are a few places you might want to consider when Explore Red Deer’s Backyard.
Three Mile Bend Recreation Area is a 55-hectare natural area, located next to the Red Deer River near 76th Street and Riverside Drive. This is also an off-leash dog area with a mix of open areas and tree-lined paths allowing both people and pets to stretch their legs freely in nature.
The North Bank Trail along the Red Deer River is another beautiful area for walking. From Kiwanis Picnic Park, through Bower Ponds to Three Mile Bend, the trail meanders along the Red Deer River with many viewpoints where moose, deer, fox, and the occasional jackrabbit have been spotted.
Across the Red Deer River is the South Bank Trail, a winter walker's paradise. It takes you along the river past Taylor Drive bridge where you will find a series of colour changing solar lights, projecting the perfect backdrop for winter walking at night. Find more winter trails on the city of Red Deer’s Waskasoo Trails Winter Trails & Facilities Map.
The trails at Heritage Ranch are for multipurpose use, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter walking, fat biking, and even horse-drawn sleigh rides. Cleats for the ice and snow are recommended when walking in this natural winter setting, as the trail conditions can vary.
McKenzie Trail Recreation Area is a frozen oasis in the winter and features some of the oldest trees in Waskasoo Park. They not only keep it plowed for winter walking but if you need to warm-up, you will find fire pits for that outdoor weenie or marshmallow roast along the way.
Michael O’Brien Wetlands in Clearview North provides a picturesque walk for those looking for a short and easy trail, with frozen ponds and frost covered trees it provides a magical winter setting. Be sure to keep a lookout along the paths for the occasional Christmas bauble or garland added in adornment by locals hoping to spread some holiday cheer.
Click the following link for details on which trails receive regular winter snow clearing, so you can continue to Explore Red Deer’s Backyard any season of the year!
