I visited with my uncle for the first time in the summer of 1995 when I tagged along on his summer road trip. It was so long ago, I don't remember too much from the trip. I only remember being blown away by the size of the mall and the fact that there was a full blown water park and amusement park inside.

You are correct though. Edmonton does have a tough act to follow because for us, the day before is usually Mount Robson Provincial Park / Jasper National Park, and damn that area is beautiful! I think I got 2 hiking posts on that section of the Rockies, hike #6 (#379614) and hike #46 (#751977).