Sherwood Park Natural Area

Hiking wetlands and nature trails near Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Sherwood Park Natural Area is a 68-hectare protected natural space in Strathcona County, Alberta, just south of Sherwood Park and east of Edmonton. A 2.7-kilometre hiking loop travels through mature forest, wetlands, wildflower habitat and sections of the historic Old Edmonton Trail.

The natural area is best suited to hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, nature photography and quiet outdoor recreation.

Things To Do At Sherwood Park Natural Area

Popular activities include:

Hiking and nature walks

Birdwatching

Wildlife viewing

Wildflower viewing

Nature photography

Butterfly and insect watching

Exploring the Old Edmonton Trail

Winter walking

Environmental education

Sherwood Park Natural Area is a protected nature space rather than a developed recreation park. There are no playgrounds, sports fields or camping facilities.

Hiking the Sherwood Park Natural Area Trail

The main hiking loop is approximately 2.7 kilometres long.

The trail travels through mature forest and wetter marsh areas, with wooden boardwalks, small bridges and wetland viewpoints along the route.

Trail conditions vary with weather and seasonal water levels. Mud and standing water are possible, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear or rubber boots can be helpful during wetter periods.

Bicycles, horses and any other wheeled vehicles are not permitted on the walking trails.

Forests, Wetlands and Wildflowers

Sherwood Park Natural Area is located along the western edge of the Cooking Lake Moraine.

The landscape includes mature poplar forest, white spruce, birch, willow and sedge wetlands. Small wet depressions and marsh areas provide habitat for a variety of plants and wildlife.

Wildflowers and plants that may be found within the natural area include:

Prickly wild rose

Fireweed

Common pink wintergreen

Northern bedstraw

Black twinberry

Cow parsnip

Fleabane

Visitors should leave flowers, plants and other natural features undisturbed.

Wildlife at Sherwood Park Natural Area

The combination of forest and wetland habitat supports a variety of wildlife.

Animals that may be seen in the area include:

White-tailed deer

Moose

Coyotes

Snowshoe hares

Porcupines

Red squirrels

Bird species may include black-capped chickadees, blue jays, ruffed grouse, great horned owls, saw-whet owls, woodpeckers and nuthatches.

Wetland areas also provide habitat for frogs, dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies and other insects.

Mosquitoes can be abundant during the warmer summer months, especially near wetland areas. Insect repellent is recommended.

Old Edmonton Trail History

Sections of the historic Old Edmonton Trail pass through Sherwood Park Natural Area.

Beginning in the early 1900s, the route was used by travellers moving between Edmonton and Cooking Lake. Historic survey markers and interpretive information along the trail help identify portions of the former route.

The land also has a history of agricultural use, including grazing permits and leases dating back to the late 1800s.

History of Sherwood Park Natural Area

Local residents began working to protect the remaining natural forest in this area in 1966.

The efforts of neighbouring landowners, local farmers, the Sherwood Park Fish & Game Association and resident Olive Gray helped lead to the area being protected as a natural area in 1971.

Sherwood Park Natural Area later became the first project completed through Wildlife '87, a national initiative marking 100 years of wildlife conservation in Canada.

Today, the area is protected for conservation, environmental education and low-impact recreation.

Boardwalks and Viewpoints

Wooden boardwalks and small bridges help hikers cross wetter sections of the natural area.

A wetland viewing platform provides a place to stop and watch for birds and wildlife.

The Olive Gray Viewpoint is also located along the trail and recognizes one of the local residents involved in protecting the natural area.

Facilities and Amenities

Facilities at Sherwood Park Natural Area include:

Gravel parking area

Trailhead information

Trail map

Interpretive signs

2.7 km hiking loop

Wooden boardwalks

Small bridges

Wetland viewing areas

Benches

Basic toilet facility

There is no campground at Sherwood Park Natural Area.

Dogs at Sherwood Park Natural Area

Dogs are permitted but must remain on leash.

Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Keeping dogs controlled also helps protect wildlife and other trail users.

Park Rules

Visitors should follow posted rules and help protect the natural area.

Stay on established trails.

Do not pick or remove plants.

Do not disturb or feed wildlife.

Fires are not permitted.

Camping is not permitted.

Cutting trees or vegetation is prohibited.

Dogs must remain on leash.

Horses are not permitted on walking trails.

Bicycles and other wheeled vehicles are not permitted on walking trails.

Pack out garbage and personal belongings.

Visiting in the Summer Season

Summer is a popular time for hiking, birdwatching, wildflower viewing and photography. Trails may become muddy or wet after rain, and some sections may have standing water.

Mosquitoes can be heavy around the wetlands during July and other warm summer periods. Bug spray, long sleeves and appropriate footwear can make the hike more comfortable.

Visiting in Winter and Fall

Fall brings colourful aspen and birch foliage to the forest.

Sherwood Park Natural Area can also be explored during winter and is promoted by Strathcona County as a winter walking destination.

Snow and ice may affect trail conditions, so visitors should wear footwear suited to the season.

How To Find Sherwood Park Natural Area

Sherwood Park Natural Area is located south of Sherwood Park in Strathcona County, Alberta, east of Edmonton.

The parking area and trailhead are located on Range Road 231, approximately 0.8 kilometres south of Highway 628 / Township Road 522.

A gravel parking lot is located beside the trailhead.

Why Visit This Park Near Edmonton Alberta 

Sherwood Park Natural Area offers an easy nature escape close to Edmonton and Sherwood Park.

Within a relatively short 2.7-kilometre loop, visitors can experience mature forest, wetlands, wildflowers, wildlife habitat, boardwalks, viewpoints and local history.

It is a good option for travellers looking for a shorter Alberta hike without leaving the Edmonton region.

Sherwood Park Natural Area FAQ

Where is Sherwood Park Natural Area?

Sherwood Park Natural Area is located south of Sherwood Park in Strathcona County, Alberta, east of Edmonton. Access is from Range Road 231.

How long is the trail?

The main Sherwood Park Natural Area hiking loop is approximately 2.7 kilometres.

How large is Sherwood Park Natural Area?

The protected natural area covers approximately 68 hectares.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes. Dogs are permitted but must remain on leash.

Can you bike in Sherwood Park Natural Area?

No. Bicycles and other wheeled vehicles are not permitted on the walking trails.

Can you camp here?

No. Camping and fires are not permitted.

Is Sherwood Park Natural Area open in the winter?

The trails can be explored during winter, and the area is used for winter walking.

What should I bring?

Comfortable hiking footwear is recommended. Waterproof footwear may be useful after rain, and insect repellent is helpful during mosquito season.

What can you see?

Visitors can explore forests, wetlands, wildflowers, boardwalks, small bridges, wildlife habitat and portions of the historic Old Edmonton Trail.