Hawrelak Park — Attraction in Greater Strathcona

Hawrelak Park in Edmonton, once a cherished oasis of natural beauty and community gatherings, holds a special place in the hearts of many Edmontonians, including myself. Its expansive green spaces, tranquil lake, and scenic walking trails provided a serene escape from the bustling city life, offering moments of peace and connection with nature.

During my visits to Hawrelak Park, I fondly remember picnicking with family and friends, enjoying summer festivals, and taking leisurely strolls along the water's edge. The park's vibrant atmosphere, alive with laughter and shared experiences, created lasting memories that enriched the fabric of Edmonton's community spirit.

However, recent developments have cast a shadow over Hawrelak Park's legacy. The encroachment of corporate interests and commercial ventures has altered its tranquil landscape, diminishing its role as a sanctuary for Edmontonians. What was once a haven of natural beauty and communal joy has succumbed to the pressures of profit-driven decisions, leaving behind a void in the hearts of those who cherished its serene charms.

As Hawrelak Park loses its battle against corporate greed, it's not just a loss of green space but a loss of cherished memories and communal gathering spaces. The park's transformation serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between preserving natural beauty and succumbing to commercialization.

Despite this, the spirit of Hawrelak Park lives on in the hearts of Edmontonians who continue to cherish its past and lament its altered present. It's a place that will forever be remembered for the laughter of children playing, the tranquility of a lakeside sunset, and the sense of community that once flourished amidst its scenic grounds.

In honoring the legacy of Hawrelak Park, we pay homage to its role in shaping Edmonton's identity and fostering connections among its residents. May its memories endure as a testament to the importance of preserving our natural spaces for future generations to enjoy...

I always love this park. Connects to a dog park where you can let your dog off leash which is nice. It's just over the bridge that is located on the far end of the park. They keep this park really clean and mosquito pretty free. It's unfortunately become really busy so parking spots run out real quick on the nice days. If you go on a weekday, its not so busy. Lots of open areas to play spots! They have some fire pits at table areas so if you want to BBQ without a portable stove you can. There is a bathroom there. Actually two flushable locations. I've been going here since I was a kid for gatherings. The spots are spaced out nice So its not crowded while you use the day spots. Good place to bring your bikes as there is trails. You can actually find some paths that lead right to the river. Some are more steep than others. There not city made, so expect a little work getting up and down. People fish around the bridge area on the park side since the other side has the dog park. Winter time you can skate on the pound there. Down fall is -a lot of geese poop so watch where you step. Ps. If you go on a busy day when it's really hot, I doubt you'll get a spot under one of the parks covered up area, so if you have one of those pop up awnings (tent) thing, it's a must to bring it. The sun can get really hot and you'll find yourself trying to find shade. If you have one of these you'll have an easier time finding a place to set up as you don't require trees....

Hawrelak Park, Mayfair Park to some, is a great place to visit. I often arrive as the gate is unlocked in the morning. Some mornings it's just me and the geese, other mornings there are morning strollers getting in a little outdoor exercise. So calm and peaceful as the sun rises. If you enjoy taking photos, you will find a lot of opportunities year round to capture both nature and people. During major park festivals the park is closed to autos, transit stops are just outside the park gate and for big events park and ride service is available from many places in the city. Most times when there is not a big event going on, there is plenty of free parking and the roads and parking areas are very well maintained in the winter. There is a rink on the pond in the winter but only open for skating when the ice is safe. An alternate rink exists in the south east corner of the park for skating and hockey. The parks geese are both a blessing and a curse, very entertaining but they leave a lot of mess around the perimeter of the pond, watch your step! Other than the goose droppings the park is kept very clean and the trees and grass are very well maintained. Picnic tables and bbq pits are available as well as a concession area in the centre of the park.

Strap on your cross country skis or skates in the winter, grab your frisbee and picnic basket in the summer and head to the park but leave your pets at home, the geese are very territorial...