Wood Buffalo Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural experiences in Wood Buffalo with our detailed travel guide.
- Introduction to Wood Buffalo
- List of Places to Visit in Wood Buffalo
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Wood Buffalo
- Best Things to Do in Wood Buffalo: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Wood Buffalo
- Food and Drink Scene of Wood Buffalo
- Where to Stay in Wood Buffalo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Wood Buffalo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Wood Buffalo
- Best Time to Visit Wood Buffalo
- Do’s and Don’ts of Wood Buffalo
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Wood Buffalo: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Wood Buffalo
- Where to Go Next from Wood Buffalo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Wood Buffalo
Located in Northern Alberta, Wood Buffalo is a vast and diverse region, spanning over 44,800 square kilometers. It is home to one of the world’s largest nature preserves, Wood Buffalo National Park. It also holds a significant cultural and historical importance for various Indigenous communities.
List of Places to Visit in Wood Buffalo
Here’s our list of must-see places to visit in Wood Buffalo:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Mikisew Cree Cultural Centre: Learn about the cultural history, customs, and traditions of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, one of many Indigenous communities in the region.
- Fort Chipewyan Heritage Centre: Discover the rich history of Fort Chipewyan, one of the oldest European settlements in Alberta and an important fur trade post.
- Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Trade Show: Experience a showcase of Indigenous art, handcrafts, and cuisine.
Natural Attractions of Wood Buffalo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Wood Buffalo National Park: Explore the park’s diverse landscape, including the largest terrestrial conservation area in North America. It is home to the world’s largest herd of wood bison, as well as grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou.
- Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park: See one of the largest and most northerly set of active freshwater sand dunes on the planet.
- Paddle the Peace River: A scenic canoeing or kayaking route through a valley surrounded by forested hills.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Wood Buffalo
Wood Buffalo is home to a wide variety of trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:
- Salt River Day Use Area: An easy hike along the Salt River that provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape.
- Bison Loop Trail: A moderate hiking trail that takes you through the heart of Wood Buffalo National Park, where you can spot bison and other wildlife.
- Colin-Creighton Trail: A challenging mountain biking trail that winds through the boreal forest.
Best Things to Do in Wood Buffalo: Activities and Tours
- Northern Lights Viewing: The aurora borealis is best viewed in the darkness of the Northern Hemisphere, and Wood Buffalo offers some of the best opportunities to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
- Photography Tours: The region’s breathtaking landscapes, dramatic skies, and abundant wildlife make it the perfect destination for those looking for beautiful and unique photo opportunities.
- Fishing and Hunting: The region’s pristine wilderness and abundance of fish and game make it a popular spot for fishing and hunting enthusiasts.
Week-Long Itinerary for Wood Buffalo
Day 1: Explore Mikisew Cree Cultural Centre and take a walking tour of Fort Chipewyan.
Day 2-4: Visit Wood Buffalo National Park and experience the stunning natural beauty of this unique landscape, including hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Day 5: Visit the Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park and learn about the unique geological features of the region.
Day 6: Paddle the Peace River and enjoy the scenery from the water.
Day 7: Take a photography tour or enjoy some fishing or hunting in the surrounding wilderness.
Food and Drink Scene of Wood Buffalo
Must-Try Dishes
- Bannock: A traditional Indigenous frybread that can be served as a sweet or savory dish.
- Wild Game: Venison, elk, and bison are common on local menus and are prepared in a variety of ways, including in stews and sausages.
- Pickerel: A mild, flaky fish that is often served fried or grilled.
Local Beverages
- Northern Lights: A locally brewed beer that is known for its crisp and refreshing taste.
- Cranberry Juice: A popular non-alcoholic beverage made from locally harvested cranberries.
Where to Stay in Wood Buffalo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Wood Buffalo Inn: A cozy hotel located in Fort McMurray, offering comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
- Birchwood Trails B&B: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of the Birchwood Trail system.
- The Cube: A unique hostel located in Fort McMurray, offering dorm-style and private rooms.
What to Buy in Wood Buffalo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Indigenous Art: Look for locally made carvings, paintings, moccasins, and beadwork from the region’s Indigenous communities.
- Wild Rice: A nutritious, gluten-free cereal grain that is grown in the region.
- Birch Syrup: Made from the sap of birch trees, this unique syrup has a distinctive flavor that is perfect for pancakes or desserts.
Local Culture and Customs of Wood Buffalo
Wood Buffalo has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with several Indigenous communities that have called the region home for generations. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the customs and traditions of these communities, including their art, music, and languages.
Best Time to Visit Wood Buffalo
The best time to visit Wood Buffalo is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant and the parks and attractions are open to visitors. Late fall and winter offer opportunities for winter sports and Northern Lights viewing.
Do’s and Don’ts of Wood Buffalo
Do:
- Respect Indigenous traditions and customs.
- Prepare for changeable weather.
- Pack appropriate gear for outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the environment.
- Harm or harass wildlife.
Safety and Health
Safety in Wood Buffalo
Wood Buffalo is generally a safe and welcoming place to visit. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially when hiking or camping in the wilderness.
Health in Wood Buffalo
Visitors should be aware of the risks of exposure to cold temperatures and wildlife encounters. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing, including layers, and follow safety guidelines when in natural areas.
Getting to Wood Buffalo: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Wood Buffalo
- Fort McMurray International Airport: Located in Fort McMurray, this is the closest airport to the region.
Bus Stations Near Wood Buffalo
- Greyhound Canada: Provides bus transportation to Fort McMurray and other destinations in the region.
Other Options
- Driving: Wood Buffalo is accessible by car via the Mackenzie Highway and the Northern Woods and Water Route.
- Train: VIA Rail Canada provides train transportation to the region.
How to Get Around in Wood Buffalo
The best way to get around Wood Buffalo is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Some tour companies offer guided tours of the region, as well as transportation to various attractions.
Where to Go Next from Wood Buffalo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Jasper National Park: Located in neighboring Alberta, Jasper National Park offers stunning natural landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and hot springs.
- Yellowknife: The capital of the neighboring Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is a bustling city with a rich cultural history and stunning wildlife viewing opportunities.
Conclusion
Wood Buffalo offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure opportunities. From its stunning national parks to its rich Indigenous culture, there is something for everyone in this vibrant region of Northern Alberta.
