Introduction
Located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River Valley in southwest Edmonton, Donsdale is a small neighbourhood that features extensive ravines and wildlife. It is bound by Lessard Drive in the north and 184th Street in the east, but it is the river valley and ravines bordering the south and west of the neighbourhood that make Donsdale special.
Lifestyle
Once home only to gorgeous estates overlooking the river valley, Donsdale became more developed in the 1990s and 2000s. The exclusivity of its location makes Donsdale a popular place for the city’s affluent. It is small without many city parks, but residents have easy access to Wedgewood Ravine and other trails, and are only steps away from leaving the city and enjoying the outdoors.
Dollars & Sense
The average price of a home in Donsdale approaches the $1 million mark, as it is one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Edmonton. The private residences and premier location give this spot a cachet that attracts those who can afford a bit of luxury. With a strong sense of community, residents pay into a homeowners' association to ensure the area is well-maintained.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The price of most homes in Donsdale is out of reach for the average homeowner. For those who do live there, the lack of playgrounds and schools may be a concern. The accessibility to nearby communities and to the river valley and ravines likely more than make up for that though.
11.6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
According to Statistics Canada's 2011 Census, more than 80 per cent of Donsdale residents drive to work. The community is located just off Anthony Henday Drive, so commuting is easy no matter where you're headed. For public transit riders, Lessard Road is the only street here with bus service. Once the LRT expands to Lewis Estates, then residents could have an additional option for getting around.
In the Area
Because of its small size and newer developments, there are not many amenities within Donsdale's boundaries. There is a large shopping complex just off the northwest corner with groceries, banking, professional services, and restaurants. The Donsdale pond and stream that runs through the central part of the neighbourhood provides kids with a place to hunt for frogs and explore wildlife.
Meet the Neighbours
Perched at the top of the river valley, this small community is nestled into one of Edmonton's most highly-prized areas. That exclusivity attracts affluent residents, who are predominantly in the highest income brackets. Donsdale has an even distribution of age groups, from small children to seniors, and the neighbourhood is seeing a growth of families that call it home.
The Vibe
Donsdale offers a combination of residential homes and rural estates. The neighbourhood never lost its natural history, which is highlighted by a preserved wetland in the heart of the community. The viewpoints have been maintained, allowing residents access to magnificent vistas. This is an area to get away from daily stresses with a hike, or to simply sit and watch a sunset close to home.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
North Saskatchewan River Valley
The North Saskatchewan River Valley offers lots of trails and hiking adventures through the woods. Stay perched on the top of the valley and you can see beautiful sunrises and panoramic views of the city.
more infoDonsdale Stream
The Donsdale Stream flows out of the pond and has been preserved in its tranquil natural state. It’s a great place for kids to explore wildlife in its natural habitat.
Donsdale Drive
Take a drive or a stroll down one of the original streets in the Donsdale neighbourhood. You can admire some of the beautiful architecture of the estate properties that line the street.
Wedgewood Ravine
This small neighbourhood park is situated at the top of Wedgewood Ravine, offering a great view of the river valley. There are paths down into the ravine where you can get back to nature.
more infoDonsdale Pond
Set in the middle of Donsdale, the pond is an attractive central spot for people to walk their dogs or sit and relax. A gorgeous fountain adds to the beauty of the area.
Touchmark at Wedgewood
This award-winning gated full-service retirement community has a unique combination of high quality bungalows with some medium-density long-term care living suites, which provide a full range of necessary amenities for the 55-plus crowd.
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