North Saskatchewan River valley parks system

The North Saskatchewan River valley parks system (Also known as River Valley Parks; and Ribbon of Green) is a continuous collection of urban parks in the North Saskatchewan River valley of Edmonton, Alberta.

Edmonton's river valley comprises over 20 major parks and attractions and forms the largest expanses of urban parkland in Canada. The public river valley parks provide a unique urban escape area with park styles ranging from fully serviced urban parks to campsite-like facilities with few amenities. At 7,400 ha (18,000 acres) in size and 48 km (30 mi) in length, the river valley parks system consists of 22 ravines, which have a combined total length of 103 km (64 mi). It also includes 11 lakes. Most of the city has bike and walking trail connections. These trails are also part of the 235 km (146 mi) Waskahegan walking trail.

Several golf courses, both public and private, are also located in the river valley. The long summer daylight hours of this northern city provide for extended play well into the evening. Golf courses and the park system become a winter recreation area during this season. Cross-country skiing and skating are popular during the long winter. Four downhill ski slopes are located in the river valley as well, two within the city and two immediately outside.

The City of Edmonton has named five parks in its river valley parks system in honour of each of "The Famous Five".

The largest area in the river valley is occupied by municipal parks:

The City also operates several public facilities in the river valley:

The provincial government owns the following sites in the river valley:

Hiking, cycling, and multi-use trails run throughout these parks and connect to other trails through the city and outside as well forming an integrated system. The river valley parks in particular are part of the Waskahegan and Trans Canada trail systems.

Edmonton's river valley park system is home to porcupines, deer, coyotes, skunks, muskrats, rabbits, and beavers.

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