Strathcona County follows a priority system to manage snow and ice on more than 187 km of trails and pathways in Sherwood Park and rural hamlets. 

Trail and pathway clearing priorities

After a snowfall, it can take up to five days to clear all County-maintained trails and pathways. If it snows again, crews will return to clear trails and pathways again in order of priority. 

Priorities are outlined in the Winter Maintenance Policy. (143.2 KB)

Typically, the County will start clearing Priority 3 trails and pathways at the same time as Priority 2 trails. 

Ice control on trails and pathways

If icy conditions are an issue, crews will spread rock chips and use equipment to remove ice, where possible. Rock chips are considered a safe and effective way to manage icy trails and pathways. A sand/salt mix can be hard on pets’ feet and landscaping. 

We typically do not use any chemicals on trails. In extreme circumstances, we will use an environmentally friendly ice melt, which is safe for animals. High-traffic locations near County facilities also use the same ice melt product. 

Ice control around transit centres and facilities

Concrete surfaces around Bethel and Ordze transit centres, as well as areas around County facilities such as the Community Centre and Festival Place, are cleared with 24 hours following a snowfall. The updated priorities only include trails and pathways.

Ice control around community mailboxes

Canada Post is responsible to clear around mailboxes.

Strathcona County may be responsible to clear the pathway leading to the mailbox, if it is considered a Priority 3 trail. However, many mailbox locations have private sidewalks that connect to the mailbox, which is maintained by the resident on the adjacent property.

Further information: