When the snow begins to fall and the temperatures drop, the Blatchford community becomes a winter wonderland, perfect for residents and visitors alike to embrace the joys of the season. This community, built on the former site of the Edmonton Municipal Airport, is Edmonton’s first sustainable community and is quickly becoming a dynamic space for families to live, offering a growing number of amenities for public use year-round. Whether you enjoy skating, winter walks, taking in a snowy landscape, or all of the above, Blatchford has something for everyone to enjoy.
Walking, Biking & Fat Biking
Blatchford’s green spaces don’t go into hibernation for the winter; they become a playground for outdoor adventures! Take a stroll or try fat biking along the 340m of shared-use path and 350m of gravel walking trails that wind around the scenic stormwater pond and pass by cozy townhome bungalows. Even in the colder months, the pond’s viewing deck offers lovely views of the snowy landscape, making it an ideal rest stop or photo opportunity. Pedal by bike on the separated bike lanes and watch for new additions – like an upcoming promenade alongside the pond – that will make winter walks even more enjoyable.
Skating
If ice skating is more your style, Blatchford has you covered with a nearly 8000 sq ft snowbank rink, located in Littlewood Park at the corner of Airport Road and Blatchford Road. This picturesque rink sits in front of the iconic red and white Control Tower, a historical landmark that once watched over Canada’s first licensed airfield. The rink is the heart of family fun winter activity: benches alongside the rink are available for lacing up, and a short stroll leads to the warming hut where you can thaw chilly fingers and toes. When the snow melts, this green space transforms into a gathering spot for community events.
Warming Hut
Blatchford’s unique warming hut offers a cozy spot to rest and escape the elements. Both the hut and its benches incorporate materials that were repurposed from the former airport runways – an example of adaptive reuse and a reminder of the community’s aviation roots. Bring a hot cocoa and some marshmallows to roast over the fire pit, just remember to also bring your own firewood and be sure to extinguish it properly. Found next to the community gardens and the garden-themed playground, the warming hut is also a relaxing space to connect with neighbours and friends, showing how Blatchford’s amenities can be enjoyed in all seasons.
Dog Park
Furry friends are encouraged to join the fun at the newly opened, and aptly called, Blatchford Bark Park. This fully fenced interim park is located at the corner of Blatchford Rd and Alpha Blvd and is approximately 2,800 sq ft. With waste bags and receptacles provided, it’s easy to keep the park clean and enjoyable for the entire community while your pup enjoys their own adventure.
Sustainability
Blatchford is a shining example of the City of Edmonton’s commitment to sustainability and community renewal. With thoughtful parks planning, the community is designed to offer about 50% more green space than a typical Edmonton neighbourhood, inviting everyone to get outside year-round. The transformation of the former airport site is rooted in reuse and recycling, with 92% of materials from the initial airport dismantling diverted from landfills. This includes 12 buildings taken apart and 27,000 tonnes of concrete, metal, debris, and wood that were reused or recycled. As the City continues to develop this 536-acre community, plans for a large central park and additional parks and public spaces are underway, making Blatchford a welcoming, environmentally-friendly destination for Edmontonians in every season.
Winter Fun in Blatchford:
Website: www.blatchfordedmonton.ca
