GOING DOWN EDMONTON'S RIVER VALLEY ON A SEGWAY

It might be cliched, but there is no other way to explain that day — it was 'just' perfect; beautiful, nicely warm and sunny. A day meant for a trip down the River Valley in Edmonton. 

But on a Segway? Hello, I am from India, what is that? 

Out came the Segways from the River Valley Adventure Company. Riding it was "Chris" someone who could've been in the movies. Never mind. At that moment, I was worried, very much so, about the Segway. 

Chris being the patient teacher

It seemed like somebody attached two large tyres at the end of a long aluminium pole with a handlebar. Excuse me, you want me to ride that? Down the beautiful river valley? I came to Canada to see its beautiful rivers, not end up at the bottom of one, okay?

But Chris being Chris and having seen many 'hyper-ventilating'newbies, calmed us down and patiently, very very patiently, taught us the ropes on how to enjoy the Segway. Once you get the hang of it, you don't want to get off it. A Segway tour is a must-try for everyone. 

Now coming to the River Valley — it is one of the most spectacular sights in Edmonton, Alberta. 

Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River Valley is the largest urban parkland in North America. At 7,400 hectares — it better be the largest. There are 22 parks and over 150 kms of trails that you can enjoy.

The river, I was told, originates from a 325 sq km Columbia Icefield, 1800 mts above sea level. It flows across Alberta, Lake Winnipeg and finally into the Hudson Bay. It is considered to be Canada's historic waterways. 

We took a short drive down the river valley that snaked its way through some beautiful flower gardens, conservatory, and bountiful nature. At the end of the hour, I wanted to do it all over again.

Check out rivervalleyadventure.com