things to do in Fort McMurray

Whether your preference is to immerse yourself in the quiet solitude of a northern lake or navigate a stretch of churning white water, local outfitters can suggest the outing for you. Escape into the unbelievable landscapes carved from the Canadian Shield when glaciers expanded and retreated during the last ice age.

During the summer, follow the Fort Chipewyan winter road to access the trails and campsites throughout the wilderness of the Richardson backcountry that will lead you to the Athabasca Sand Dunes ecological preserve.

Follow the route of Peter Pond who traveled the Clearwater River and crossed the Methye Portage over 200 years ago or travel the mighty Athabasca, the transportation corridor of days gone by. Jet boats, canoes, Kayaks and personal watercraft operators share the river highways and all must yield to in and outbound float planes. Canoe and kayak rentals, shuttle transportation and outfitted hourly to multi-day trips are offered by local operators.

Get a bird's eye view of the oil sands sites or the city on board a heli-flight seeing tour. Customized trips including picnic lunches on a sandbar or a drop in to the Richardson dunes can be arranged.

If exploring further north is your wish, customized tour packages to Fort Chipewyan can be arranged for a few hours or a few days.