A walkable city allows its inhabitants to walk, cycle, or take advantage of public transportation for commuting. Such cities present numerous advantages to their residents, including enhanced health, decreased traffic congestion, reduced air pollution, and boosted economic activities.
Walking is a low-intensity workout that maintains healthy body weight, alleviates stress and minimizes chronic ailments. The most walkable cities in Canada also motivate people to avoid cars. In turn, that curtails traffic congestion and diminishes air pollution.
Multiple factors make a city walkable. Sidewalks and bike lanes are crucial for a safe and easily accessible environment for pedestrians and bikers. Urban areas with seamlessly connected sidewalk networks make walking easier. Also, prioritizing public transport services such as buses or subways permits cycling.
Let’s check out our list of the most walkable cities in Canada.
Most walkable cities in Canada
According to Walk Score, Vancouver is the most walkable city in Canada with a score of 80. Victoria is also highly accessible, scoring in the mid-70s. Other walkable cities include Montreal, Halifax, and Toronto.
Here are the five most walkable places in Canada:
What makes the most walkable city?
We’ll judge the most walkable cities in Canada based on these four criteria:
Convenience
In the most walkable cities, convenience is vital because it gauges how close amenities are to residential areas. Easy access to stores, eateries, parks, and public spaces can motivate individuals to walk instead of driving, leading to decreased traffic congestion and better air quality.
To make walking an appealing and convenient choice for residents, the most walkable cities in Canada should have various amenities within a short walking distance.
Comfort
The most walkable cities in Canada should be comfortable. Comfort encompasses elements such as sidewalk coverage, pedestrian-centric design, and congestion levels. By offering comfortable and safe conditions for walking, more people could be influenced to walk, thereby improving public health and alleviating traffic jams.
Additionally, creating attractive and pleasant public spaces can foster community spirit and social interactions.
City Policy
City policy reflects local governments’ dedication to advancing and augmenting walkability. Implementing policies and programs like Complete Streets policies, pedestrian safety campaigns, and active transportation plans can pave the way for a more walkable city by prioritizing pedestrian protection, cutting down traffic speed, and endorsing alternative transport modes.
When cities emphasize walkability in their policies and planning efforts, they lay the foundation for a more equitable and eco-friendly urban environment. They place less emphasis on cars or gas stations and more focus about building an accessible city.
Safety
Safety evaluates the likelihood of accidents and pedestrian fatalities. Cities with low crime rates teamed with outstanding pedestrian infrastructure are safer for walking.
The implementation of measures such as reducing vehicle speed, amplifying pedestrian visibility, integrating crosswalks, and establishing pedestrian signals can minimize accidents while enhancing safety for walkers. Furthermore, cultivating a safe and walkable city encourages active transportation options that benefit overall public health.
List of most walkable cities in Canada
- Vancouver
- Victoria
- Montreal
- Halifax
- Toronto
- Winnipeg
- Saskatoon
- Quebec City
- Ottawa
- Charlottetown
- Edmonton
- Calgary
Vancouver
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Canada
Vancouver ranks among Canada’s most walkable cities, thanks to its densely packed, pedestrian-centric urban planning. With a variety of amenities like grocery stores, eateries, and parks in close proximity across the city’s neighborhoods, residents find it convenient to run daily errands on foot.
The city’s favourable weather and stunning landscapes make walking an enjoyable activity. Moreover, investments made in pedestrian infrastructure—such as well-kept sidewalks, crosswalks, and green pathways—ensure the safety and ease of on-foot commuters. As a consequence, Vancouver has emerged as a pioneer in encouraging eco-friendly and active transportation means, eventually reducing traffic jams and enhancing the city’s overall quality of living.
Vancouver – Convenience
Conveniently, Vancouver boasts a high degree of walkability, with a majority of amenities easily accessible from residential areas. With a Walk Score of 80, this city allows residents to complete most errands on foot, although suburban areas may be less accommodating for pedestrians.
Vancouver – Comfort
Vancouver offers pleasant walking conditions due to its wide sidewalks, pedestrian-centric design, and moderate climate that supports year-round strolls. However, certain parts of the city might prove more challenging for walking as a result of congestion, steep inclines, or irregular sidewalks.
Vancouver – City Policy
Vancouver is dedicated to enhancing walkability through initiatives such as the Greenest City Action Plan and Transportation 2040 plan. These efforts have led to the implementation of pedestrian-focused policies like lowering speed limits in residential zones and investing in pedestrian infrastructure.
Vancouver – Safety
Vancouver generally provides a safe environment for pedestrians with fewer pedestrian fatalities compared to other Canadian cities. However, there has been an increase in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in recent years. Furthermore, certain regions within the city may pose a higher risk to pedestrians due to heavy traffic or inadequate pedestrian facilities.
Victoria
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in British Columbia
Victoria is one of the most walkable cities in Canada. It emphasizes accessibility and convenience in its urban design. Boasting a Walk Score of 76, it ranks among Canada’s most pedestrian-friendly cities, allowing residents to conveniently access various amenities and services by foot. The city’s compact structure and organized street layout facilitate navigation, while investments in wide sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and bike lanes enhance the walking experience.
The picturesque waterfront, parks, and historical architecture in Victoria invite both locals and tourists to enjoy walking. Its temperate climate and breathtaking natural scenery create a delightful atmosphere for outdoor activities. Beyond its pedestrian-centric design, Victoria also features a comprehensive public transit system that enables residents to traverse the city without needing a car.
Victoria’s dedication to walkability and eco-friendly transportation alternatives has built its image as a livable and delightful city. The focus on pedestrian facilities combined with the city’s natural charm and abundant cultural offerings make it an appealing destination for individuals seeking a walker-friendly environment.
Victoria – Convenience
Victoria’s compact nature makes it an ideal city for walking enthusiasts. The downtown area houses a plethora of services, including cafes, stores, cultural attractions, and recreational facilities, all within arm’s reach. Navigating the city streets is a breeze thanks to the grid system and numerous pedestrian crossings, enabling easy access to any destination within the city center.
However, some residential areas fall short in terms of walking convenience, offering limited amenities and services, thus necessitating driving or public transit usage for essential needs.
Victoria – Comfort
Boasting a gentle climate, picturesque surroundings, and captivating historic buildings, walking in Victoria is both comfy and pleasurable. The city has dedicated resources to establish pedestrian-friendly areas such as the Inner Harbour and Beacon Hill Park. These gorgeous green spaces provide serene waterfront views that are hard to resist.
On the flip side, inconsistent sidewalks and roads combined with the city’s hilly topography may pose challenges for walkers, especially those with mobility constraints.
Victoria – City Policy
Victoria’s devotion to fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment is evident in its public transit investments, sidewalk and crosswalk enhancements, and reduced residential speed limits. Programs like “Bike to Work Week” have been introduced to promote active travel and diminish car dependence.
However, some residents criticize the limited availability of affordable housing in the downtown core which may hinder accessibility to walkable amenities for lower-income individuals.
Victoria – Safety
Victoria is generally viewed as a secure city for pedestrians, thanks in part to low crime rates and minimal occurrences of walker-related accidents. Measures such as increased illumination and traffic calming techniques have reinforced safety for those on foot.
Nevertheless, navigating busy roads and intersections can be daunting at times, especially during peak hours. Additionally, the considerable homeless population may trigger discomfort or safety concerns for walkers in specific areas.
Montreal
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Quebec
Montreal boasts excellent walkability and emphasizes pedestrian-oriented urban planning. With a Walk Score of 65, it suggests that numerous daily tasks can be accomplished on foot. The city’s grid-patterned streets, along with its comprehensive public transit system and numerous bike lanes, make it a breeze for residents to traverse the city using various modes of transportation.
The assorted neighborhoods of Montreal provide an array of amenities and attractions within walking distance, such as parks, cafes, shops, and cultural centers. Its fascinating history and lively culture render walking an enjoyable means of exploration and uncovering new regions. Montreal has dedicated resources to pedestrian infrastructure by maintaining well-kept sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and pedestrian-focused streetscapes. This walkable city ensures the safety and comfort of individuals traveling by foot.
Montreal – Convenience
Montreal’s inviting streets and welcoming neighborhoods cater well to pedestrians, making it an ideal city for those who enjoy exploring on foot. With seamless access to public transportation, cycling paths, and properly maintained sidewalks, Montreal presents a multitude of options for people to traverse the city.
Montreal – Comfort
This Canadian metropolis offers a delightful walking experience, characterized by abundant green spaces and picturesque views spread throughout. A diverse mix of neighborhoods, each possessing its distinctive charm and characteristics, enhances the overall atmosphere for those on foot.
While some congestion may be encountered during rush hours in particular locales, Montreal generally provides a pleasant and enjoyable ambience for both residents and visitors alike.
Montreal – City Policy
The local government has actively encouraged walking as an eco-friendly and health-conscious mode of transport through successful policies. With initiatives such as the Vision Zero plan, which aims to eradicate traffic-related fatalities and injuries, Montreal has made notable progress in making pedestrian safety a top priority.
Montreal – Safety
With a strong focus on pedestrian safety, Montreal has taken considerable strides in enhancing the security and walkability of its streets. The city’s extensive measures include increased pedestrian crosswalks, longer pedestrian signal durations, and lowered speed limits in key areas.
Halifax
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Nova Scotia
Halifax is renowned for its walkable design and straightforward street structure. With a Walk Score of 63, its residents can effortlessly reach various services and facilities on foot. The city’s compactness and extensive system of sidewalks and bike lanes ensure a secure and approachable walking environment for both locals and tourists.
The abundance of parks, museums, and cultural sites in Halifax renders walking as an engaging activity. The city’s breathtaking waterfront, adorned with numerous eateries and cafes, offers an idyllic setting for relaxed walks. Halifax is well-invested in pedestrian facilities, inclusive of well-kept sidewalks and crosswalks, to enable safe and enjoyable walking experiences for everyone.
Furthermore, the comprehensive public transportation system in the city motivates the residents to depend less on automobiles, adding to Halifax’s image as an environmentally friendly and livable urban space.
Halifax – Convenience
Halifax is a highly convenient city. Most daily tasks can be accomplished on foot, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy various amenities such as shops, eateries, and cultural attractions within walking distance. Although certain areas have steep terrains posing potential walking challenges for some individuals.
Halifax – Comfort
This Canadian metropolis offers a delightful walking experience, characterized by abundant green spaces and picturesque views spread throughout. A diverse mix of neighborhoods, each possessing its distinctive charm and characteristics, enhances the overall atmosphere for those on foot.
The well-designed streets of Halifax prioritize pedestrians, ensuring a safe and accessible environment for locals and visitors alike. The abundance of picturesque parks and green spaces in the city offers a delightful escape from the hectic urban life, perfect for relaxing strolls. Certain sidewalks and crosswalks require repair, which may create discomfort for walkers in some areas.
Halifax – City Policy
Halifax demonstrates significant commitment in its pedestrian infrastructure through well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks, making walking a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The city’s dedication to pedestrian safety is apparent through traffic calming measures like speed humps and pedestrian islands.
Furthermore, the comprehensive public transportation system encourages residents to decrease their reliance on cars, solidifying Halifax’s status as an eco-friendly and livable city.
Halifax – Safety
Pedestrians in Halifax can expect relative safety compared to other Canadian cities as it records fewer pedestrian fatalities. The city’s attention to pedestrian safety is clear with measures like speed humps and pedestrian islands. Nevertheless, it is essential for pedestrians to remain cautious and vigilant of their surroundings, particularly when crossing bustling streets or walking during nighttime hours.
Toronto
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most popular walkable city in Canada
Toronto, a highly walkable Canadian city, demonstrates a robust dedication to pedestrian-centric urban planning. With a Walk Score of 61, the city allows residents to complete numerous daily tasks on foot. Its compact, dense layout is enhanced by a web of well-kept sidewalks and crossings, making it effortless for individuals to explore Toronto by foot.
Known as one of the most diverse cities in Canada, Toronto is highly accessible. It takes pride in its assortment of accessible amenities and attractions, such as parks, eateries, and stores all within walking distance. Toronto’s mild weather and picturesque waterfront further contribute to the appeal of walking as a favored activity for both locals and tourists. To encourage walking and cycling, Toronto has made significant investments in pedestrian infrastructure like dedicated bike lanes, expansive sidewalks, and street furniture.
Consequently, the city has emerged as a frontrunner in advocating sustainable transportation alternatives and lowering car dependency. This shift has contributed to a greener, healthier, and more inhabitable urban environment.
Toronto – Convenience
Toronto’s charm lies in its exceptional walkability, owed to the abundance of convenience it offers. A rich tapestry of amenities, ranging from eateries and stores to verdant parks, are seamlessly interwoven throughout the city and easily reached on foot.
The downtown region stands out as particularly compact and welcoming to pedestrians, simplifying daily errands for inhabitants.
Toronto – Comfort
As for comfort, the walkability in Toronto is somewhat inconsistent. The city features a widespread network of sidewalks and bike lanes; however, they are not always in the best condition, and some regions can be overcrowded or noisy.
That said, numerous green spaces and parks scattered throughout the city create serene and enjoyable walking experiences.
Toronto – City Policy
Regarding city policy, Toronto has made substantial progress in enhancing walkability over the years. Initiatives like the Vision Zero plan have been introduced with the goal of eradicating traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Toronto’s streets by 2030.
The city has also directed investments towards upgrading pedestrian infrastructure, which encompasses developing more pedestrian-only zones and implementing safer crosswalks.
Toronto – Safety
In matters of safety, Toronto’s walkability is generally commendable but some pockets of the city pose potential dangers for pedestrians. Bustling downtown regions and major intersections can be perilous environments for those on foot, so exercising caution is highly recommended in such areas.
Nevertheless, Toronto has taken steps to improve safety by boosting police presence and upgrading lighting systems in these locations. As a whole, the walkability of Toronto stands as one of its most appealing attributes, enabling both residents and visitors to explore and navigate without depending on a car.
Winnipeg
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Manitoba
Winnipeg takes pride in its pedestrian-oriented design and straightforward streets. With a Walk Score of 48, locals can easily access various services and amenities by foot. The city’s grid-patterned streets, together with well-kept sidewalks and bike lanes, establish a secure and practical setting for walking, benefiting both residents and visitors.
Numerous parks, historic locations, and cultural attractions in Winnipeg render walking a favored pastime. From the exquisitely designed Assiniboine Park to the fashionable Exchange District, there is something intriguing for everyone to explore. The city has also dedicated substantial resources to enhance its pedestrian facilities, such as constructing new bridges and overpasses, ensuring a secure and delightful walking experience for all.
Besides its walkable streets, Winnipeg also features an extensive public transport network. With options ranging from buses to light rail transit, citizens have multiple ways of commuting that help lessen their dependency on cars. This dedication to sustainable transportation has earned Winnipeg recognition as an environmentally-friendly and habitable urban center.
Winnipeg – Convenience
Winnipeg is a city that excels in walkability and convenience. It features numerous pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with an array of amenities and services within easy reach. Residents can effortlessly visit grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, and parks as the city offers a reliable public transportation system, enhancing accessibility even further.
Winnipeg – Comfort
As for comfort, Winnipeg experiences extreme winters and sweltering summers which can affect the overall walking experience. Nevertheless, the city has put significant efforts into establishing pedestrian infrastructure such as well-maintained sidewalks and bike lanes, creating a welcoming and accessible walking environment for both locals and visitors.
Winnipeg – City Policy
Winnipeg holds a strong city policy in support of walkability. Its transportation plan highlights the importance of active transportation and endeavors to establish a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere by investing in infrastructure and public transportation. Moreover, the city promotes cycling, walking, and utilizing public transportation through various educational programs and awareness campaigns.
Winnipeg – Safety
In terms of safety, some areas in Winnipeg may pose risks for walking, especially at night. However, the city has introduced initiatives to enhance pedestrian safety encompassing street lighting upgrades, crosswalk improvements, and traffic calming interventions. Winnipeg has made notable progress in augmenting its walkability with its dedication to crafting a safer, more comfortable, and convenient walking environment deserving of praise.
Saskatoon
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Saskatchewan
With a Walk Score of 46, Saskatoon offers a plethora of services, amenities, and attractions just a short stroll away. The extensive network of pedestrian-focused infrastructure in Saskatoon, such as well-maintained sidewalks and bike lanes, ensures that walking and cycling are safe and enjoyable experiences for all residents.
The city offers a diverse selection of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces that serve as the perfect backdrop for walking and other outdoor activities. One popular attraction is the Meewasin Valley Trail—a 60-kilometer expanse of trails and pathways that trace the South Saskatchewan River and connect many of the city’s parks and green spaces.
Complementing its walkability, Saskatoon also features an extensive public transit system which provides residents with various transportation options. With thoughtfully designed streets and an efficient transit system in place, Saskatoon creates a cozy and convenient atmosphere for both locals and tourists who appreciate walking as part of their lifestyle.
Saskatoon – Convenience
Saskatoon has a mixed score for walkability convenience. Its downtown core is pedestrian-friendly and compact, offering varied shops, services, and amenities that are easy to reach by foot.
However, the suburban areas are more car-centric, with limited sidewalks and crosswalks plus shopping centers situated far from residential zones. Thus, running errands or getting essential services outside the downtown core can be challenging for pedestrians.
Saskatoon – Comfort
Winter also poses some limitations as the temperature can drop well below zero. Nonetheless, the city’s pedestrian infrastructure is comparatively well-developed, comprising a network of sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike routes that provide comfort and safety for residents who walk.
Saskatoon – City Policy
The city has made some headway in city planning to promote walkability, such as the pedestrian master plan that outlines goals and strategies. Despite improvements, there is a need for more policy initiatives and investment to enhance the walkability of Saskatoon, including its suburban areas.
Saskatoon – Safety
Saskatoon has been struggling with safety issues associated with walking, predominantly in the downtown core, where the rate of pedestrian-vehicle collisions is high due to multiple factors, including aggressive driving, distracted pedestrians, and a lack of crosswalks and pedestrian signals
Quebec City
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Popular walkable city in Quebec
Quebec City is renowned for its historic design and welcoming streets for pedestrians. With its outstanding Walk Score of 45, both locals and visitors are able to comfortably stroll through the city, uncovering the numerous cultural and historical gems hidden within. The well-maintained architecture and meandering streets work together to create an enchanting ambience that lures explorers.
The city provides countless pleasurable walking experiences with its abundant parks, museums, and cultural attractions. From the scenic Plains of Abraham to the delightful lanes of Old Quebec, there’s always something fresh to uncover on foot. Additionally, Quebec City offers an extensive system of bike lanes and devoted pedestrian zones, ensuring secure and accessible walking and cycling for all.
Quebec City leaves no doubt about its dedication to pedestrian infrastructure with well-kept sidewalks, crossings, and traffic signals. The city is also equipped with an efficient public transportation system – including buses and a ferry – encouraging inhabitants and tourists alike to rely less on cars while exploring the city in an eco-conscious manner.
Quebec City – Convenience
Quebec City offers some amenities within walking distance, though not all. The downtown core is easily navigable on foot and features an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions. However, for some residential areas, a car or public transportation may be necessary to access services.
Quebec City – Comfort
Pedestrians in Quebec City can enjoy well-maintained sidewalks and bike lanes, as well as the city’s flat terrain, for an overall comfortable walking experience. The delightful architecture and historic buildings add to the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Nevertheless, snowy winters and steep hills can occasionally make walking somewhat challenging and uneasy.
Quebec City – City Policy
Quebec City expresses its dedication to creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure by investing in sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks. Furthermore, the city has introduced traffic-calming measures and placed pedestrian safety at the forefront of its planning decisions.
Quebec City – Safety
The relatively low crime rate in Quebec City contributes to its image as a safe environment for pedestrians. However, winter conditions may result in slippery sidewalks and risky walking situations. Additionally, some areas may feel less secure at night; hence, pedestrians should remain vigilant.
Ottawa
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Ontario
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, emphasizes walkability in its city planning, resulting in a Walk Score of 45 for its inhabitants. The compact layout and dense infrastructure of the city enable residents to reach various amenities, such as parks, stores, eateries, and cultural hubs by walking.
The city’s abundant parks, waterways, and historical sites create a picturesque environment for pedestrians to wander and uncover new areas within Ottawa. Besides its walkability factor, the city also takes pride in its comprehensive public transit network that offers citizens numerous transportation choices. Ottawa has pedestrian-friendly infrastructures like well-maintained pavements, crosswalks, and bicycle lanes. The city focuses on promoting environmentally sustainable transportation methods.
Ottawa – Convenience
Ottawa is an easily walkable city, allowing residents to tackle most daily errands effortlessly on foot. The city hosts numerous commercial hubs, such as the Byward Market, offering a diverse selection of shops, eateries, and cafes. Moreover, public transportation options like buses and light rail transit (LRT) simplify access to far-off areas.
However, some neighborhoods could be less convenient for pedestrians due to their sprawling nature or inadequate pedestrian infrastructure.
Ottawa – Comfort
The appealing natural landscapes and architecture in Ottawa enhance its walkability. With plenty of green spaces like the Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park present, it’s a haven for leisurely strolls.
Some city parts may not be as comfortable for walking during harsh winter weather conditions like snow and icy sidewalks. Still, well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings signify the city’s dedication to providing a comfortable walking experience.
Ottawa – City Policy
Ottawa showcases an all-encompassing approach to pedestrian safety through the Vision Zero strategy which targets eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Investments have been made in various aspects of pedestrian infrastructure such as bike lanes and crossings.
Furthermore, the official city plan highlights creating pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with several supportive initiatives like the Pedestrian and Cycling Program. However, better sidewalk maintenance could be implemented in heavily frequented areas.
Ottawa – Safety
Generally regarded as a safe walking city, Ottawa boasts a low crime rate and relatively few traffic accidents. Several safety measures have been employed, including speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and traffic signals to protect its residents.
In addition, efforts have been made to invest in pedestrian education campaigns that encourage safe walking habits. Nonetheless, certain areas might be less secure for walking at night due to isolation or insufficient lighting.
Charlottetown
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown, the captivating capital of Prince Edward Island, exudes a delightful ambiance through its pedestrian-friendly design and easily navigated streets. Possessing a commendable Walk Score of 40, inhabitants can conveniently reach various services and amenities on foot. The city’s modest dimensions and vast array of sidewalks and bike lanes foster a secure and approachable walking atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
Bountiful parks, such as Victoria Park, grace Charlottetown with mesmerizing waterfront vistas and a plethora of recreational options. History buffs will appreciate landmarks like Province House and the Confederation Centre of the Arts while strolling through the city’s picturesque streets. Charming cafes, eateries, and boutiques line these quaint avenues, creating an idyllic setting for leisurely walks.
Charlottetown has dedicated substantial resources to improve pedestrian facilities, featuring crosswalks, signals, and signage that enhance the overall walking experience. Moreover, a dependable public transportation system consisting of buses and ferries ensures effortless navigation without relying on a car. This steadfast commitment to fostering a walkable, eco-friendly urban environment plays an essential role in Charlottetown’s status as a vibrant, welcoming community.
Charlottetown – Convenience
Charlottetown’s compact layout and modest population make it a breeze to traverse on foot. The downtown district brings together a majority of essential amenities, such as grocery stores, eateries, cafes, and retail outlets, all within a short walking distance.
Unfortunately, the limited public transit and scarce bike lanes could present obstacles for those wishing to venture further into the city.
Charlottetown – Comfort
The appealing architecture and historical landmarks of Charlottetown create a welcoming environment for strolling around. The city’s parks, harborside walks, and verdant open spaces offer delightful areas for pedestrians to amble and unwind.
Nonetheless, the absence of sidewalks and curb cuts in certain districts might hinder those with disabilities or mobility challenges.
Charlottetown – City Policy
Charlottetown has committed to enhancing walkability by introducing pedestrian-centric policies like traffic calming strategies, improved street lighting, and developments of sidewalks and crosswalks. Moreover, the city hosts a pedestrian and cycling advisory committee dedicated to championing active transportation and ensuring pedestrian safety.
Charlottetown – Safety
Pedestrians generally regard Charlottetown as a secure location with its low crime rate and comparatively few traffic accidents involving walkers. However, concerns have been expressed regarding insufficient lighting and poor signage in some areas.
Edmonton
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most popular walkable city in Alberta
Edmonton stands as a lively Canadian metropolis perfect for those who love wandering on foot. With a Walk Score of 40, the city’s thoroughfares prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility, enabling locals and tourists to effortlessly reach stores, eateries, and various facilities by walking.
Each diverse neighborhood in Edmonton presents a distinctive and delightful walking escapade for everyone. The city’s alluring river valley, among the largest urban park systems in North America, showcases stunning panoramas of the North Saskatchewan River that beckon walkers and hikers alike. Besides, Edmonton features an elaborate web of bike lanes and trails, facilitating simple exploration by bicycle.
Edmonton’s dedication to pedestrian welfare shines through its infrastructure. The city has poured resources into well-kept sidewalks, footbridges, and crosswalks to guarantee that strolling remains a secure and enjoyable activity for all.
Edmonton is equipped with an effective public transportation system, encompassing light rail transit (LRT) service, which ensures seamless navigation throughout the city sans car. The city’s focus on sustainable transportation not only alleviates traffic jams and carbon emissions but also fosters a more habitable and delightful environment for everyone.
Edmonton – Convenience
Edmonton is a city that offers a decent level of convenience for pedestrians. There is an abundance of shops, restaurants, and parks within walking distance of several neighborhoods.
Furthermore, the impressive public transportation network, featuring buses and light rail transit (LRT) service, promotes eco-friendly commuting options for residents, cutting down on traffic congestion and air pollution.
Edmonton – Comfort
Renowned for its comfortable and well-kept sidewalks, Edmonton ensures a smooth and effortless walking experience. Many neighborhood layouts are thoughtfully planned with pedestrian-friendly designs, broad streets, and dedicated bike lanes.
Additionally, the city is home to numerous picturesque parks and natural areas like the North Saskatchewan River Valley, making it a scenic destination for walking enthusiasts.
Edmonton – City Policy
Edmonton has undertaken a variety of measures to enhance walkability within the city. A comprehensive active transportation plan has been established, focusing on making walking and cycling safer and more convenient for everyone.
Additionally, a Pedestrian Charter has been set up, detailing the principles and actions necessary for fostering a walking-friendly environment.
Edmonton – Safety
There is still much to be done in terms of pedestrian safety in Edmonton. While initiatives such as traffic calming, crosswalk upgrades, and lowered speed limits in areas with heavy foot traffic are in place, pedestrian casualties remain an urgent issue.
In 2020 alone, Edmonton recorded 11 pedestrian fatalities and 169 injuries. Local residents and pedestrian advocates insist that more action is required to tackle the root causes of such accidents, including greater emphasis on pedestrian infrastructure and reassessing car-centric policies.
Calgary
Convenience
Comfort
Policy
Safety
Most walkable city in Alberta
Located in western Canada, Calgary is a lively city offering a highly walkable experience due to its well-planned streets and pedestrian-friendly design. With a Walk Score of 39, residents can effortlessly access nearby amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks on foot.
Calgary’s picturesque landscape, featuring the Bow River and the Rocky Mountains, sets a beautiful backdrop for walking enthusiasts. The city’s mild climate makes strolling pleasurable throughout most of the year. Calgary’s dedication to pedestrian infrastructure—including crosswalks, well-kept sidewalks, and pedestrian bridges—guarantees safety and ease for those traveling by foot.
Calgary has implemented an impressive public transportation system, which comprises a light rail transit (LRT) service allowing residents to traverse the city without a car. This devotion to eco-friendly transportation lessens traffic congestion and air pollution, enhancing the quality of life for inhabitants.
Calgary – Convenience
Calgary offers a harmonious blend of commercial and residential zones, ensuring residents can easily stroll to nearby shops, eateries, and amenities. The city’s well-designed transportation network features a light rail transit (LRT) system, seamlessly connecting various neighborhoods while reducing car dependency.
However, some suburban areas are more spread out, making certain destinations demand longer walks.
Calgary – Comfort
Calgary presents an array of neighborhoods with varying degrees of walkability. Many boast wide sidewalks, benches, and public spaces conducive to foot traffic, while others may feel less welcoming due to cramped sidewalks, busy roads, and scant shade.
The city’s urban planning strategy emphasizes walkability by focusing on crafting safe and appealing public spaces for pedestrians. Admittedly, walking in winter poses challenges as slippery snow and ice-laden paths complicate navigation.
Calgary – City Policy
Calgary’s city policies foster walking culture by promoting active transportation forms like walking and cycling. Several initiatives aim to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, including the Pedestrian Strategy, which seeks to cultivate a more accessible and comfortable walking environment.
Despite these efforts, there is potential for further improvements, especially in suburban regions lacking developed pedestrian facilities.
Calgary – Safety
Calgary enjoys a low crime rate that adds to pedestrian confidence during walks. Nonetheless, a few areas may pose increased risk for walkers after dark. To boost pedestrian safety, Calgary launched the Vision Zero initiative working towards eliminating serious injuries and fatalities resulting from traffic accidents.
Yet, for truly secure walking experiences citywide, especially near bustling intersections and major roads, additional progress is needed.