It stretches across the city and weaves through corners of the coulees, inviting groups and clubs to walk the paved trails weekly.

The Volkssport Walking Club of Medicine Hat started 30 years ago, when two locals spent time in Germany and were introduced to the club. 

In Medicine Hat, the walking club has 40 members, and the group walks a five kilometre or 10 kilometre trail three times a week.

Anne Baxter joined Volkssport Walking Club over 10 years, and enjoys the fresh air and walking with a group. 

“My favourite trails are Strathcona Island Park and Kin Coulee Park, as well as the Gas City to Echo Dale Trail,” says Anne. “When we walk as a group, nobody is left behind. There are people who enjoy a quicker pace, and people who like to take it slow.”

Volkssport Walking Club is an international club, and international, national, and provincial organizers will host festivals throughout the year. Anne and others are set to take flight to Finland in August to meet Volkssport Walking Clubs members from around the world. 

“It’s over a weekend and there are a lot of walks planned. The Canadian group is going on a bus tour as well, so we’ll see Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, all through walking.” 

Next year in 2026, the Canadian group is hosting a festival in Yellowknife.

The Volkssport Walking Club of Medicine Hat recently hosted a festival in Medicine Hat, where there was a morning and afternoon walk, with a BBQ picnic at Kinette Corner in between as a kick off to summer strolls.

“So many people love the group, because you aren’t alone. It’s nice to walk with people,” says Anne. Adding that people who’ve moved to Medicine Hat have joined the club and are introduced to the trail system a lot sooner than if they were out walking on their own. 

“It’s lifelong exercise, and the fresh air is nice. There are so many trails, and they’re well groomed in the summer and winter. They go through very nice park areas, and it’s a great way to enjoy those parts of the city that we have to enjoy,” says Anne. 

Afterwards, the group often finds a cup of coffee on a patio at a local cafe to continue on the day.

Memberships are only $10 to join. Find more information about the club at Volkssport Walking Club of Medicine Hat.