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
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