Get Back To Nature: Braeside & Forest Lawn Ravines, St. Albert

We came across the Ravines while on our way to swim class last fall. A barely noticeable sign and a path down into the woods caught our attention as we drove by, and we made a note to come back and check it out when we had more time. We first visited during our 31 Day to Get Out and Explore, but we have come back to visit both ravines and explore further each time!

Braeside Ravine is to the North and Forest Lawn Ravine is on the south side of Sir Winston Churchill Ave in St. Albert, just south of Boudreau Road. I usually come down Sir Winston Churchill Ave and park at the start of the residential that is adjacent to the ravines.

Quiet paved paths with a few steeper hills and wooden bridges to cross are tucked into the hidden ravines. This area is a great place to identify trees, ferns, and even watch wildlife. We have watched squirrels, woodpeckers, and even watched a porcupine waddle through the trees up a hill!

On our last visit we crossed Sturgeon Road and continued on the path through the woods. My girls enjoyed the small playground we came across at our turn around point, Butterfield Park. From this point, the trails continue on to the Red Willow Park trail along the river, which we will save for another day!