Edmonton, Alberta’s bustling capital, is surrounded by a fascinating array of abandoned sites that reflect the city’s rich industrial, agricultural, and historical past. For urban explorers, these abandoned places offer a unique glimpse into forgotten structures, where time seems to have stood still. Here are 10 of the most intriguing abandoned places near Edmonton, each with its own story to tell.
1. Charles Camsell Hospital (Edmonton, Alberta)
The Charles Camsell Hospital was originally built as a tuberculosis sanatorium in 1946 and later became a general hospital before closing in the 1990s. The large, imposing building has been abandoned for decades, attracting urban explorers drawn to its eerie, decaying halls. There are rumors of paranormal activity, making it a popular yet forbidden location to explore. The site is off-limits due to safety concerns.
2. Edmonton Ghost Mall (Capilano, Edmonton)
Once a bustling shopping center, the Capilano Mall was largely abandoned after several major stores closed down. Although sections of the mall have been revitalized, other parts remain deserted, with empty stores and decaying infrastructure. It is a rare urban exploration site within the city, offering a glimpse into the decline of traditional retail spaces.
3. Greenfield Asylum (Edmonton, Alberta)
The Greenfield Asylum, located near Edmonton, was originally a psychiatric facility before its closure. The building has been left to decay, with nature slowly reclaiming the grounds. Although much of the structure is now in ruins, the haunting atmosphere and remnants of its past purpose continue to attract urban explorers.
4. Burdett Grain Elevator (Burdett, Alberta)
The Burdett Grain Elevator is an iconic relic of Alberta's agricultural past. Standing tall but abandoned, the weathered wooden structure is a reminder of the grain industry that once thrived in the region. While grain elevators are disappearing across the Canadian Prairies, this one remains intact, though its future is uncertain. It’s a popular spot for those interested in photographing Alberta's rural history.
5. Little Flower Roman Catholic Church (Mundare, Alberta)
Located just east of Edmonton, the Little Flower Roman Catholic Church was once the spiritual center for a small community. Abandoned for years, the church is now a shell of its former self, with broken windows and decaying pews. Surrounded by overgrown grass and old gravestones, the church is a peaceful yet melancholic reminder of the town's history.
6. Ghost Town of Rowley (Rowley, Alberta)
A couple of hours' drive from Edmonton lies Rowley, a well-preserved ghost town that was once a bustling railway stop. Abandoned in the mid-20th century, Rowley is now a living museum, with its old buildings, including a grain elevator, railway station, and school, left standing. Although it's maintained as a tourist attraction, much of the town retains its eerie, abandoned feel.
7. Heinsburg Water Tower (Heinsburg, Alberta)
The Heinsburg Water Tower is one of the few remaining examples of early 20th-century rural water towers in Alberta. Once used to supply water to trains passing through the area, the tower has long since been abandoned but still stands tall, a striking figure against the rural landscape. The surrounding area offers a nostalgic glimpse into Alberta's railway history.
8. Old Edmonton Power Plant (Edmonton, Alberta)
The Old Edmonton Power Plant, also known as the Rossdale Power Plant, played a critical role in the city's early electricity supply. The plant was closed in the late 1980s, and while there have been discussions about redeveloping the site, much of the plant remains abandoned. Its imposing industrial architecture is a reminder of Edmonton's industrial boom and draws explorers interested in post-industrial decay.
9. Minchau Blacksmith Shop (Edmonton, Alberta)
The Minchau Blacksmith Shop in Edmonton’s Ritchie neighborhood was established in 1925 but has been abandoned for decades. Its historic building is slowly decaying, though its rustic wooden exterior and old sign make it a nostalgic reminder of Edmonton’s early 20th-century commercial activity. There have been plans for redevelopment, but for now, it remains a site of urban decay.
10. Old Grain Elevators (Warburg, Alberta)
Located southwest of Edmonton, the Old Grain Elevators of Warburg are part of Alberta's once-thriving network of grain storage and transportation infrastructure. These abandoned wooden structures, now falling apart, stand as remnants of the province’s agricultural boom. Their deteriorating state, with rusting machinery and collapsing roofs, creates a haunting but picturesque location for photography and exploration.
Conclusion
Edmonton and its surrounding areas are home to numerous abandoned places that offer a captivating journey into Alberta’s history, from industrial sites to rural relics. These forgotten spaces serve as reminders of past eras and the inevitable passage of time. As with all urban exploration, it is important to respect local laws and safety guidelines, as many of these places may be dangerous or off-limits. By exploring responsibly, you can discover and appreciate the hidden stories behind these abandoned places near Edmonton.
