Strathcona Science Provincial Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Strathcona Science Provincial Park |
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 Strathcona Science Provincial Park
Location in Alberta
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| Location | Edmonton / Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada |
| Nearest city | Edmonton |
| Area | 2.9 km2 (1.1 sq mi) |
| Established | December 12, 1979 |
| Governing body | Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation |
Strathcona Science Provincial Park is a special natural area in Alberta, Canada. It is a provincial park located between the cities of Edmonton and Sherwood Park. You can find it south of the Yellowhead Highway and west of Anthony Henday Drive.
This park sits in the beautiful valley of the North Saskatchewan River. It covers both sides of the river. The land here is about 625 meters (2,051 feet) above sea level. The park is quite large, covering 2.9 square kilometers (1.1 square miles). It was officially created on December 12, 1979, and is looked after by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation.
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Why is Strathcona Science Park Important?
For thousands of years, this area was a popular camping spot for Indigenous peoples. It was a great location because it was close to the river for travel and trade. The high cliffs of the river valley also made it easy to hunt bison. The park was created to protect this important historical site. It helps keep the land safe from new buildings and factories.
What Did Scientists Find Here?
Between 1978 and 1980, archaeologists carefully dug up parts of the park. They found many old objects and signs of past life. These discoveries helped us learn a lot about the people who lived here long ago.
What Can You See from the Park's Past?
The park used to have buildings for science exhibits that opened in 1980. These buildings are now closed. But you can still see some interesting things from that time. There are cool triangular towers called obelisks. You can also walk along a wooden path, called a boardwalk, through the area where archaeologists dug. A few signs explain what was found there. The park is a safe place to visit, even though some parts are now overgrown with plants.
Fun Things to Do at Strathcona Science Park
Strathcona Science Provincial Park offers many activities for visitors. It's a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise.
Winter Activities
- Cross-country skiing: There are 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) of trails perfect for cross-country skiing.
- Downhill skiing: You can go downhill skiing at the Sunridge Ski Hill, which is part of the park.
- Tobogganing: When it snows, the park is a fun spot for tobogganing.
Summer Activities
- Hiking: Enjoy walking on the trails and exploring the park's natural beauty.
- Mountain biking: There are 8 kilometers (5 miles) of paths along the North Saskatchewan River for mountain biking.
- Radio-controlled aircraft flying: The park has a special area where people can fly their radio-controlled planes and drones.
