How can I find Edmonton’s network of bike routes?

Use the Discover YEG map to plan a route using Edmonton’s bike network. Edmonton’s Bike Plan aims to increase active transportation and safe and direct routes for people commuting to work, running errands, accessing the river valley for recreational trips and improved neighbourhood networks to connect people to local destinations.

What is the Safe Passing Distance Bylaw?

Edmonton’s Safe Passing Distance Bylaw provides clear guidance for how much room people driving need to leave to safely pass people biking on the street. Visit Side By Side for complete information on the bylaw.

Will bike lanes be closed in the winter?

No. Bike lanes are open year round.

What are on-street bike routes?

On-street bike routes, such as bike lanes and shared-use roadways, are specially designed facilities to support safe and efficient bicycle transportation on roadways.

Do I have to ride in the dedicated bike lane?

No. Although cyclists are encouraged to use the bike lanes, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles and therefore may ride outside the bike lane.

Why is the bike lane dashed in some instances?

Bike lanes are dashed to indicate to motorists that they may cross the bike lane for certain manoeuvres, provided they have checked and it is safe to do so.

What happens to bike lanes at bus stops?

At bus stops, the bike lane is dashed to indicate that the bus can pull across the bicycle lane, and to notify the cyclist that buses will be pulling over.

Cyclists are required to yield to stopped buses as any motor vehicle would be expected to. 

Is it legal to ride my bicycle on a sidewalk?

Shared-Use Path SignCycling on the sidewalk is not permitted except for bikes with a 50 cm wheel diameter or less, such as kids’ bikes.

Here are a few risks of riding on the sidewalk: 

  • Drivers are not expecting cyclists to be on the sidewalk, increasing chances of collisions when drivers are entering or exiting alleys and parking lots
  • Sidewalks are narrow and full of obstacles, which creates potential conflicts between people walking, biking, driving, wheeling, getting on and off buses, or emerging from building entrances

Some sidewalks may be designated as shared sidewalks and shared pathways. Watch for signs.

How are laws enforced for cyclists?

Under the Province of Alberta Traffic Safety Act, the City of Edmonton Traffic Bylaw 5590, and the City of Edmonton Parkland Bylaw 2202, all groups including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians have rights and responsibilities. More information can be found at Cycling in Edmonton. If you believe a cyclist is acting unlawfully, please contact 311 to report.

Whether we are driving, biking, walking, or using a mobility aid, we each have a role to play so we can move safely around each other. The booklet, How We Roll Around Edmonton Together , outlines what we can do when driving and biking.