What are the Best Off-Road Trails Near Edmonton? A Guide to Iron Horse, Redwater, and Beyond.

Edmonton is an off-road paradise; if you know where to look! It's surrounded by a diverse terrain from sand dunes, to an abandoned historic railroad. This is a curated guide to the best trails within 2.5 hours of Edmonton that can be used in various seasons, totally worth it for a day trip or even an evening rip! 

Trail Overview

The Heavy Hitter: Iron Horse Trail

Located just about an hour and a half northeast of Edmonton, this massive, uninterrupted corridor of trail follows along an abandoned section of the Trans Canada Trail. This historic route not only chases along marshland, prairie, boreal forest, and farmland; it includes stops in 10 communities filled with character and stories. 

How do I enter the Iron Horse Trail?:

• From the west enter through Waskatenau
• From the east enter through Heinsburg
• The northern branch heads to Cold Lake

Is this trail good for experienced quadders, families, and newbies alike?

• Yes, this trail is great for many levels!
• Smoky Lake’s Giant Pumpkins, World's Largest Pierogi, Vilna's Enormous Mushrooms, and more stops along the trail!
• This trail is well signed.
• There is ready access to campgrounds along the trail, though no random camping is allowed.

Where can I find sand dune ATV riding in Alberta?

Alberta's not just home to farmland and small towns, we've got tons to offer in sand and other trail types! Check out these trails to change up your terrain. 

• Redwater Sandhills: This area boasts one of the largest sand dune fields in the region. It's famous for its technical sandy trails, an area you do not want to miss!
• Bruderheim Nature Area: This area is great for all levels. It's mostly level land, but has some challenging hills too. Bruderheim has got sand, mud, muskeg, gravel, creeks, and grass to test out your skills!
• Caroline: This utility corridor is perfect for riders who enjoy a mix of mud, rocky sections, and wide-open terrain. There are tons of trails to explore out there, it makes a great day trip with tons of staging areas. 

Which trails near Edmonton would you recommend? 

Brazeau Dam is a true treasure. This area is located just under 2 hours from Edmonton and is home to gorgeous views, and an extensive network of challenging trail systems. With mountain fed rivers, wildlife galore, and boreal forest there is a beautiful view no matter where you ride.

What can you expect at Brazeau Dam trails?

• There are no formal UTV staging areas. 
• This area has a great ATV club to help you get started on the trails or find buddies to ride with. 
• Wildlife is abundant in this area, so keep an eye out for animal life and always keep the proper equipment with you.

Ready to ride? Explore our backyard!

Alberta sure has a beautiful landscape, and off-roading is just one of the ways to enjoy it. These trails are some of our favorites, but there are tons more. Some top trails are Alder Flats, Alberta Safari Park, and Rocky Top ATV park. Always be sure to take proper precautions when off-roading, especially if you are out of cell range.

Martin Motor Sports loves off-roading as much as you do, and that's why we carry the best machines and accessories for your adventures. If you need some advice, contact us, and we'd be happy to assist you. Happy quadding!