Winter wellness in Edmonton doesn’t have to mean grinding through gym workouts or hiding indoors until spring. One of the best ways to boost mood, energy, and mental health this time of year is simply getting outside, embracing the season, and moving your body in ways that feel playful rather than punishing.
From skating under the trees to flying down a toboggan hill or gliding through quiet river valley trails, Edmonton offers incredible outdoor options — many of them free or low-cost.
Here’s your guide to where to go this week, what to try, and where to rent gear or take lessons if you don’t have equipment.
Ice Skating: Easy, Joyful Winter Movement
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that combines gentle cardio, balance, and a serious nostalgia boost. You don’t need to be good at it — wobbling absolutely counts.
Best Outdoor Ice Skating Spots in Edmonton
- Hawrelak Park
A favourite for scenic skating paths and open ice when conditions allow. A peaceful, nature-filled experience right in the city. - Victoria Park IceWay
A beautiful skating loop near downtown with skyline views — great for an after-work or weekend skate. - Rundle Park IceWay
Spacious, family-friendly, and perfect for beginners or casual skaters. - Laurier Park
A quieter river valley option with a relaxed vibe. - City Hall Ice Rink
Central, festive, and great for a quick skate paired with coffee downtown.
Skate Rentals & Lessons
- Totem Outfitters – seasonal skate rentals and winter gear
- City of Edmonton – free public skating times and occasional lessons at community rinks
Tobogganing: High-Fun, Low-Pressure Wellness
Tobogganing is one of the most underrated forms of winter fitness. It’s laughter, short bursts of cardio, and childhood joy all rolled into one.
Best Tobogganing Hills in Edmonton
- Gallagher Park
One of the city’s most iconic sledding spots with big hills and great views. - Emily Murphy Park
A river valley classic with multiple hill options for different comfort levels. - Queen Elizabeth Park
Shorter runs, ideal for families or a quick winter outing. - Gold Bar Park
Open spaces, less crowded, and great for a relaxed afternoon. - Rundle Park
A go-to for multi-activity winter days — sledding, skating, and walks.
What You Need
- A sled or toboggan
- Warm layers and gloves
- A sense of humour (you will wipe out)
Most hills are free and open when conditions are safe.
Cross-Country Skiing: Calm, Cardio & Nature
Cross-country skiing is one of the best full-body winter workouts — low impact, rhythmic, and incredibly grounding. It’s also perfect for solo time or quiet conversations.
Best Cross-Country Skiing Locations in Edmonton
- Gold Bar Park
Groomed trails and gentle terrain — excellent for beginners. - Victoria Golf Course
Wide, scenic trails with river valley views. - Rundle Park
Multiple trail loops and a welcoming atmosphere. - Whitemud Park
Peaceful routes through trees — great for stress relief. - Strathcona Wilderness Centre
Worth the short drive for beautifully maintained trails and variety.
Ski Rentals & Lessons
- Totem Outfitters – cross-country ski rentals and gear
- Edmonton Nordic Ski Club – lessons, trail info, and community programs
- Strathcona Wilderness Centre – rentals and beginner-friendly lessons on site
Why Outdoor Winter Wellness Matters
Spending time outdoors in winter:
- boosts mood and mental health
- increases vitamin D exposure (even on cloudy days)
- improves sleep quality
- reduces stress
- keeps movement fun and social
You don’t need intense workouts or perfect conditions — you just need to show up. You could also check out our Offline Collective starting in January with neighbourhood walks and more.
YEG Thrive Tip: Keep It Simple
You don’t need to do everything.
- Pick one activity
- Choose one nearby location
- Go for 30–60 minutes
- Warm up after with tea, coffee, or soup
That’s a wellness win.
Final Thoughts
Edmonton winters can be long — but they’re also full of opportunities to reconnect with movement, nature, and community. Ice skating, tobogganing, and cross-country skiing offer simple ways to feel better this week without overthinking it.
Bundle up, grab a friend (or go solo), and make the most of what winter has to offer — your body and mind will thank you.
