The Heart of Recreation in Lethbridge - Henderson Lake Park Feature Page

Henderson Park is a 47 hectare (117 acre) blend of relaxed leisure and active recreation opportunities concentrated around a 60 acre man-made lake. Paved and shale walking trails border Henderson Lake, along with playgrounds, rest areas and picnic sites. Concession is open during the summer months.

Henderson Park has been a focus of civic pride for more than 85 years. Originally developed for the 7th International Dry-Farming Congress in 1912, it continues to be an attraction for special event celebrations. The lake itself was originally a large slough. William Henderson, the Mayor of Lethbridge during the early preparations for the Farming Congress, was instrumental in initiating the concept of Henderson Lake and a surrounding park.

Henderson Park Virtual Tour

Park Attractions:

Henderson Lake - A 24 hectare (60 acre) man-made lake provides boating and fishing opportunities from spring to fall. The rough fishery is focused at providing a learning experience for children or a few hours of quiet relaxation. The main species caught are Northern Pike, Yellow Perch and suckers. During suitable winter conditions, skating and ice fishing areas are identified by perimeter markings. Swimming is prohibited in the lake.

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden - Opened in 1967, this four acre landscape garden is a symbol of Japanese-Canadian friendship. This garden features elements of five traditional Japanese gardens, combining trees, shrubs, rocks, pebbled beaches, ponds and moon shaped bridges to create vistas of unparalleled beauty and serenity. The pavilion offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and gives insight into the details of the garden. The serenity of the gardens may be enjoyed daily from mid-May to mid-October. Admission charged.

Henderson Outdoor Pool - Open from the end of June until the end of August, the clover-shaped pool with wading area meets the needs of toddlers and swimmers alike. A large lawn with sunny slopes and shade trees surrounds the pool on three sides. A sand volleyball court is also on site. Spend your sunny, summer days with your family around the pool. Concession is available.

Rose Garden - Originally developed in conjunction with the Girl Guides, the Rose Garden is located in the northwest corner of the park and is a popular area for wedding photos.

Henderson Horseshoes / Group Picnic Shelter - Located at the west end of Henderson Park, this fenced horseshoe pitch facility (10 pitches) doubles as a group picnic area with a kitchen and a large tent shelter. This facility is adjacent to the Henderson Outdoor Pool and a short distance from a small playground area. This shelter is wheelchair accessible, seats 60 people and no alcohol is permitted. Available between May 1 and October 1, all bookings must end by 10:00 p.m. Call 320-3009 to book this facility.

Group Picnic Shelters - In addition to the Henderson Horseshoes / Group Picnic Shelter, a permit is required to book the Kiwanis Picnic Shelter. The Kinsmen and Gunnery Point Picnic shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis and no permit is required.

Picnic Sites and Playgrounds - The main playground adjacent to the shoreline pavilion and smaller play units at the east end and pool area entertain the younger children. Other informal picnic sites are scattered throughout Henderson Park in sunny and shaded areas.

Trails - Paved trails throughout Henderson Park connect the major facilities in the park. A variety of different users, including pedestrians, joggers, strollers, wheelchairs, cyclists and in-line skaters, frequent the trail around the lake (2.8 km) or around the perimeter of the entire park (4.3 km). The paved Coal Banks Trail runs through, and continues beyond, Henderson Park

Henderson Lake Golf Course - This public, 18-hole golf course has been established along the south shore of Henderson Lake since 1911. Complete clubhouse and pro shop services are provided and memberships are available for the season. Tee times are available to the public by phoning the pro shop at 329-6767.

Henderson Stadium - This lighted baseball stadium plays host to a variety activities from semi-pro to high school baseball. The facility seats more than 3000 people.

Henderson Tennis Courts - Located in a beautiful setting and operated by the Lethbridge Tennis Club, this facility includes a clubhouse and six Plexi-Pave courts with lights. A two-sided practice wall is on site. Public is welcome. Lessons are available.

Henderson Campground - Open year round, this campground is located just east of Henderson Park on Parkside Drive. Full and partial hookup sites are available and the campground include washrooms, laundromat, store, playground and a sani-dump. Call 328-5452 for more information.

Henderson Park Ice Centre - Located on the north side of Henderson Park, a full size and mini size rink is available for private rentals annually from September to early April. Seating 700, this ice centre hosts major tournaments and games and is the home location for LAA Hockey