For more than a century, the High Level Bridge has connected Edmonton's north and south riverbanks, serving as both a transportation corridor and a defining landmark of the city's skyline. Today, the bridge is home to one of Edmonton's most beloved attractions—the High Level Bridge Streetcar.

With the City of Edmonton now planning for the eventual replacement of the aging bridge, many residents and visitors are asking the same question: What happens to the historic streetcar?

The good news is that while the bridge's future is evolving, the future of the streetcar remains promising.

A New Chapter for a Historic Landmark

The City of Edmonton has identified the 113-year-old High Level Bridge as a major infrastructure priority, with plans to begin detailed replacement planning around 2031. Current estimates place the project cost at approximately $1.3 billion, with construction and completion anticipated by 2042.

Although the bridge will eventually be replaced, city leaders have expressed strong support for preserving the streetcar experience as part of Edmonton's heritage. Mayor Andrew Knack and several city councillors have advocated for incorporating dedicated streetcar tracks into the design of the future bridge, ensuring the iconic attraction can continue operating for future generations.

For now, visitors can rest assured that the existing bridge is expected to remain operational for at least another 10 to 15 years, allowing the Edmonton Radial Railway Society (ERRS) to continue its seasonal service without interruption.

The High Level Bridge: A Transportation Marvel

When construction began in 1910, the High Level Bridge was one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Western Canada. Completed in 1913 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the bridge played a significant role in uniting the former cities of Edmonton and Strathcona, helping pave the way for their amalgamation in 1912.

The bridge remains unique in North America because it was designed to accommodate four modes of transportation:

• Railway trains

• Streetcars

• Automobiles

• Pedestrians

Stretching 777 metres (2,550 feet) across the North Saskatchewan River Valley and standing approximately 45 metres (156 feet) above the water, it remains one of Edmonton's most recognizable engineering achievements.

The Rise and Fall of Edmonton's Original Streetcar System

Streetcars were once the backbone of Edmonton's public transportation network.

The first streetcar crossed the High Level Bridge in August 1913, linking Edmonton and Strathcona with convenient and reliable transit service. By 1935, Edmonton's streetcar system carried more than 13 million passengers annually.

However, as transportation technology evolved, trolley buses began replacing streetcars throughout the city. The transition accelerated after 1939, and on September 1, 1951, the final city-operated streetcar crossed the High Level Bridge, marking the end of an era.

Rail traffic continued on the bridge for several decades afterward until Canadian Pacific Railway operations ceased in 1989.

Heritage Preservation Through the Edmonton Radial Railway Society

Fortunately, Edmonton's streetcar story did not end there.

The Edmonton Radial Railway Society was established in 1980 by a dedicated group of volunteers committed to preserving the city's transit heritage. Through restoration efforts and community support, the organization revived streetcar operations on the High Level Bridge, bringing vintage railcars back into service for residents and tourists alike.

Today, the ERRS operates a collection of beautifully restored historic streetcars from various eras and cities, allowing passengers to experience a piece of Edmonton's transportation history firsthand.

The heritage streetcar has become one of Edmonton's most unique tourism experiences, attracting thousands of riders each year.

What Is It Like to Ride the High Level Bridge Streetcar?

The journey offers much more than transportation.

Passengers travel along historic Canadian Pacific Railway trackage, pass through Alberta's only railway tunnel on a mainline route, and cross the upper deck of the High Level Bridge while enjoying breathtaking views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

The ride connects Old Strathcona and Downtown Edmonton, offering a unique perspective of the city that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

Whether you're a lifelong Edmonton resident or visiting the city for the first time, the streetcar provides a memorable blend of history, architecture, and scenery.

Current Operating Season and Fares

The High Level Bridge Streetcar typically operates:

• Thursday through Monday from mid-May to early September

• Friday through Sunday from September through Thanksgiving weekend in October

Current fares are:

• Round-trip: $10

• One-way: $5

• Children five and under: Free

Tickets are sold directly by the conductor on a first-come, first-served basis.

Looking Ahead

While Edmonton's High Level Bridge will eventually reach the end of its service life, the streetcar's future appears secure. With strong public support, heritage significance, and municipal commitment to preserving the experience, plans are already being discussed to ensure the streetcar remains part of Edmonton's identity long after a new bridge is built.

For now, residents and visitors still have many years to enjoy one of Edmonton's most cherished attractions—a living piece of history that continues to connect the city, just as it has for more than a century.

Michael Pavone is a highly accomplished and esteemed professional in the realm of luxury real estate in Edmonton. With more than 16 years of experience and a well-documented history of success, he has firmly secured his position as one of the premier REALTORS in the region. When it comes to your real estate endeavors, place your trust in Michael Pavone's expertise, an esteemed luxury consultant, and witness the remarkable impact he can have. Leveraging his extensive knowledge in marketing, communication, and negotiation, Michael consistently delivers exceptional results for his clients. Don't hesitate to reach out to Michael today to experience the unparalleled difference he can bring to your real estate journey.

The North Saskatchewan River is one of Edmonton’s most important natural landmarks, shaping the city’s history, culture, and development for generations.

Long before European settlement, Indigenous peoples including the Cree, Blackfoot, and Nakota Sioux relied on the river for transportation, food, and trade. In the late 1700s, European fur traders established trading posts along its banks, including Fort Edmonton, helping lay the foundation for the city’s growth.

As Edmonton expanded, the river became a vital transportation corridor, supporting the movement of settlers, supplies, and agricultural products. Landmark structures such as the High Level Bridge, completed in 1913, strengthened connections across the city and became enduring symbols of Edmonton.

Today, the river is valued as a recreational and environmental treasure. The North Saskatchewan River Valley, one of North America’s largest urban park systems, offers residents and visitors opportunities for walking, cycling, paddling, and enjoying nature. Conservation efforts continue to protect its ecosystem and wildlife.

A significant milestone came in 1989 when the river was designated a Canadian Heritage River, recognizing its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational importance. This designation highlights the river’s role in Indigenous history, the fur trade, and Edmonton’s development while supporting ongoing efforts to preserve it for future generations.

From its historic roots to its modern-day role as the heart of Edmonton’s river valley, the North Saskatchewan River remains an enduring symbol of the city’s identity and connection to nature.

For Edmonton residents, this designation reinforces what has long been understood: the North Saskatchewan River is not just a natural feature running through the city—it is a protected national treasure and a living link between past, present, and future.

The North Saskatchewan River is more than just a geographical feature; it's a thread that weaves through the tapestry of Edmonton's history. From its Indigenous roots and role in the fur trade to its importance in the city's development, official heritage recognition, and contemporary significance for recreation and conservation, the river remains an enduring symbol of Edmonton's past and future. As the river flows through time, it carries with it the stories, traditions, and aspirations of a city that continues to evolve while staying connected to its roots.

Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River offers several exciting ways to get out on the water, ranging from high-speed jet boat tours and guided fishing charters to relaxed inflatable raft rentals.

Jet Boat Tours & Fishing Charters

• That's Jet Boat'n: Offers thrilling private, custom, and corporate jet boat tours departing from Edmonton That's Jet Boat'n | River Valley Tours.

• River Valley Guiding Co. (Urban Jet Boat): Provides adrenaline-packed jet boat fishing tours right through the heart of the city, complete with gear, snacks, and stunning downtown views Services - River Valley Guiding Co.

• Barry Butler Outdoors: Operates guided river cruises and fishing charters, including upstream city tours starting from the 50th Street launch River Tours | Barry Butler Outdoors - Sturgeon Guide.

• Black Gold River Tours: Offers scenic river tours featuring unique islands, sandy beaches, and local history from May through October Black Gold River Tours - Explore Edmonton.

Boat & Raft Rentals

• River Valley Adventure Co.: Rents deflated daily rafts equipped with oars, pumps, bailers, and life jackets—making it easy to grab your gear, inflate, and set off on your own float River Adventures! Raft, Kayak, and Boating Guide.

• Getmyboat: Offers a peer-to-peer rental marketplace where you can book motorized pontoon boats, fishing boats, and surf boats in the greater Edmonton/Devon area Devon Boat Rentals & Yacht Charters 2026: - Getmyboat.com.

• Canoeheads: Offer a wide range of options, from 1/2 Day City Tour - 12 canoes up to 36 people - for large groups, to longer 3 or 4 Day trips with drop-in from Drayton Valley. They also provide Shuttle Only Services - Use your own Canoe! https://canoeheads.com/

Leisure Cruises

• Edmonton Riverboat: If you are looking to sit back and relax without the spray of a jet boat, this large paddle-wheeler offers scenic public cruises, Sunday brunches, and private events out of Rafter's Landing Edmonton Riverboat: Riverboat Cruises & Private Events.

Photo courtesy of Martine Gerndt - Perennial Event Services at https://www.linkedin.com/in/martine-gerndt-a4934291/ with the Canoeheads

Michael Pavone is a highly accomplished and esteemed professional in the realm of luxury real estate in Edmonton. With more than 16 years of experience and a well-documented history of success, he has firmly secured his position as one of the premier REALTORS in the region. When it comes to your real estate endeavors, place your trust in Michael Pavone's expertise, an esteemed luxury consultant, and witness the remarkable impact he can have. Leveraging his extensive knowledge in marketing, communication, and negotiation, Michael consistently delivers exceptional results for his clients. Don't hesitate to reach out to Michael today to experience the unparalleled difference he can bring to your real estate journey.