Skip to main content
City known for:
  • River activities
  • Rich history
  • Access to nature

Venture down the road less travelled with tall pine trees and gently rolling hills as your stunning backdrop.

Satisfy your urge for exploration in Fort McMurray. The town’s backyard features dense boreal forest and plains filled with rich wildlife. Uncover the city’s history of fur trading and forts, or take a jet boat tour for an immersive learning experience. A stone’s throw away is Wood Buffalo National Park—Canada’s largest national park and dark sky preserve, and home to the world’s largest herd of wood bison.

Useful links:

Fort McMurray highlights

Man fishing off of float plane near Fort McMurray at Gypsy Lake Lodge.

Water adventures

Fish, canoe, kayak, paddleboard or float on the region’s lakes and waterways. The Athabasca and Clearwater Rivers have abundant fish to catch and few crowds to dodge.

Northern Lights at a Pine Lake Cabins in Wood Buffalo National Park near Fort McMurray.

Breathtaking moments

Spot a variety of wildlife or watch the northern lights dance at Wood Buffalo National Park. Enjoy 135 km (84 mi) of Birchwood Trails in Fort McMurray during any season.

Two people looking over river lookout near Fort McMurray.

Untouched lands

Get an adrenaline rush driving ATVs or snowmobiles in the vast wilderness. This hub for backcountry thrills has extensive trail systems, offering loads of excitement.

A couple sit on a deck at a lodge outside Fort McMurray.
Couple snowmobiling on a lake, guide behind them, at Aurora Borealis Indigenous Village in Fort McMurray.
Youtube Thumbnail
Man putting on green woman behind watching with the Fort McMurray Golf Club in the background.
Dog sledding in a winter field near Fort McMurray.
Youtube Thumbnail
Aurora borealis over Andrew Lake Lodge.
Couple on outdoor adventure course at Vista Ridge in Fort McMurray.

Jet Boat Adventures

Explore the winding waters of the Athabasca River on a guided excursion. Choose between a variety of tours and bask in the refreshing spray of cool waters.

Jet Boat Adventures

Vista Ridge

From 60 acres of skiable terrain in winter to thrilling ziplines in summer, find year-round fun with beautiful views. Visit the Aerial Park with the family, an exciting place to climb walls, cross bridges and challenge yourself.

Vista Ridge Activity Park
Two golfers looking down the green at the Fort McMurray Golf Club.

Fort McMurray Golf Club

Hit the links of the Fort McMurray Golf Club along the Athabasca River and boreal forest. Play the 27-hole course and swing by the restaurant patio overlooking manicured greens.

Fort McMurray Golf Club
View all experience providers

Stories from the city

Bison in the winter.
6 min read From Bison to Bears: Alberta’s Wildlife and How to See Them

The diverse ecosystems of Alberta make it one of the best places in Canada for unforgettable wildlife viewing experiences, including bison, bears, moose, elk, sheep and all kinds of birds.

A couple cheersing while enjoying a flight of beer at the colourfully decorated Cold Garden in Calgary
9 min read How to Stay Cozy Indoors This Winter in Alberta

Exploring outdoors is a must in Alberta, but the weather is unpredictable. Get inspired with indoor activities and sightseeing to enjoy around the province when the temperature drops.

Scenic wide shot of people golfing at the 16th hole at Links of GlenEagles in Cochrane.
7 min read The Top Golf Courses and Most Scenic Golf Holes in Alberta

Alberta is home to the sort of spectacular courses—and offers the sort of stunning scenery—that golfers won't soon forget.

4 min read A Guide to Accessible Travel in Alberta

Former Canadian junior hockey player and accessibility advocate Ryan Straschnitzki shares his tips for getting to and around Alberta.

Read all stories
Purple and green northern lights shine in the sky.

Did you know?

Fort McMurray is known for having incredible views of the northern lights. If you’re checking out the city from October to March, keep your eye on the sky!

Suggested Itineraries

Dog sledding in a winter field near Fort McMurray.
4 days
Winter Road to Canadian Adventure

Experience adventure, tranquility and cultural immersion on this four-day winter road trip through Northern Alberta, starting from Fort McMurray.

Car driving ice fields parkway
14 days
Epic Alberta

Enjoy two exhilarating weeks in Alberta, exploring the mountains, lakes and wildlife in the Canadian Rockies, hiking, and getting to know Calgary and Edmonton.

View all road trips & itineraries

Nearby cities to explore

A dad gets ready to push his child down a tobogganing hill at the Indigenous Art Park in Edmonton.
Edmonton
A hiker sits on a pier watching the northern lights.
Grande Prairie
A group pause on a bridge pass over Pyramid Lake in winter.
Jasper
A woman skates on a frozen lake with other skaters in the background.
Red Deer