Edmonton Playground of the Week: Dermott District Natural Playground
It can be challenging to find places to play for families with kids of varying ages. In our group of playground friends, we have children between the ages of two and twelve, and finding playgrounds that appeal to kids within that decade age gap can be tricky.
Dermott District Natural Playground checks all the boxes. Rockyview Play has created an incredible, nature inspired and sourced playground, that is actually based on the 195 flood in Edmonton, using destructive and renewing forces of nature throughout the all-ages friendly design.
The multi-story tower feature is inspired by the historic Humberstone Coal Mines, that shaped the whole of the River Valley as much as the flood did, when the river washed it all away.
With a total of seven pods, or opportunities to play, including: Alpine Headwaters, River Washout, Humberstone Mine Towers, Log Swing, Warming Hut, Toddler Camp, and Fallen Tree - it’s one of those playgrounds that suits multiple ages of kids, easily, and includes hours of activating for play time.
What kind of play spaces are at Dermott District Natural Playground?
built in slides to hills, for natural and easy access
two and three story high climbing opportunities with multiple (challenging, and less challenging) ways to accesss to the towers and 2.7 m slide
log rope swing for multiple kids to use at the same time
natural elements continue through the playground with the toddler camp inspired by the temporary shelters of flood relief seekers, and warming hit is inspired by a river eddy, providing wind protection.
fallen climbing tree is a playable piece of debris, sourced from a locally felled tree (how cool is that!?)
comfortable natural loungers for parents to sit and enjoy the space
plenty of bench seating for snacks and rest time
Find Dermott District Natural Playground at 8648 81 St NW. The easiest way to access the playground is by parking at Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre, where you can access the playground directly from the parking lot. Catch a video tour of the playground, here.
