Fort McMurray Travel Guide

Discover Fort McMurray, Northern Alberta with our comprehensive guide. From culturally important museums to outdoor adventures, find out the best things to do, places to eat and stay, and how to get there.


Fort McMurray is nestled in Wood Buffalo, located in Northern Alberta, which is a popular destination in western Canada. Known for its rugged beauty, exciting outdoor adventures, and culturally important sites, Fort McMurray attracts visitors from around the world. Our comprehensive guide will help you discover all the best things to do, places to eat and stay, and how to get there.

Introduction to Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray is a vibrant city located in the northeastern part of Alberta, Canada. It is situated on the banks of the Athabasca River, surrounded by picturesque forests, valleys, and lakes. This city is often called the “gateway to the north” as it is the starting point for many adventures in the surrounding areas. The locals are friendly, and the city offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Fort McMurray

Whether you’re here for a day, a week, or more, there’s plenty to see and do in Fort McMurray. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oil Sands Discovery Centre: Learn about Fort McMurray’s rich history and the importance of oil sands in the region.
  • Heritage Park Historical Village: Step back in time and experience life in early 20th century northern Alberta.
  • Fort McMurray Heritage Trail: A walking tour that showcases the city’s historic buildings and landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Fort McMurray: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park: Experience the stark beauty of the northern Alberta landscape and explore the largest active sand dune area in the world.
  • Wood Buffalo National Park: This park is home to one of the last free-roaming wood bison herds in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Birchwood Trails: Hike or bike through this beautiful and well-maintained trail system.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray has several fantastic hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Birchwood Trails: This extensive trail system is suitable for all skill levels and offers fantastic views of the Athabasca River.
  • Snye River: This paved path follows the Snye River and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • Wekusko Falls Trail: A challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views of the Wekusko Falls.

Best Things to Do in Fort McMurray: Activities and Tours

There’s never a dull moment in Fort McMurray, and visitors can choose from a wide range of activities and tours. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Fishing: The Athabasca River is a prime fishing spot and offers ample opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, and more.
  • Helicopter Tours: Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning northern Alberta region with a helicopter tour.
  • Camping: There are plenty of fantastic campgrounds in the surrounding area, including Gregoire Lake Provincial Park and Anzac Recreation Area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fort McMurray

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Fort McMurray, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Oil Sands Discovery Centre and Heritage Park Historical Village
2 Hike or bike the Birchwood Trails
3 Explore Wood Buffalo National Park
4 Take a helicopter tour of the region
5 Visit the Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park
6 Go fishing on the Athabasca River
7 Relax and enjoy the local food scene

Food and Drink Scene of Fort McMurray

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild Game: Fort McMurray is known for its wild game, including elk, moose, and bison.
  • Poutine: A Canadian classic, this dish consists of french fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
  • Bannock: A traditional Indigenous bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Local Beverages

  • Cold Beer: Fort McMurray has several microbreweries that offer delicious and refreshing craft beer.
  • Alberta Spruce Gin: Made from locally sourced spruce trees, this gin has a unique and refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Fort McMurray: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fort McMurray has plenty of options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular choices include:

  • Clearwater Residence Hotel: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Fort McMurray and offers excellent amenities, including a fitness center and 24-hour concierge.
  • Vantage Inn and Suites: A reasonably priced option that provides guests with comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  • BCMInns Fort McMurray: A budget-friendly option that offers guests clean and spacious rooms.

What to Buy in Fort McMurray: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to bring home, some of the most popular items include:

  • Indigenous Art: The Fort McMurray region has a rich Indigenous history, and many galleries and shops offer beautiful pieces of art.
  • Wild Game: Several specialty shops offer wild game products, including jerky and sausages.
  • Wood Products: The region is well-known for its lumber and beautiful handmade wooden items.

Local Culture and Customs of Fort McMurray

The locals of Fort McMurray are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Indigenous culture and traditions are an essential part of the community, and visitors can learn about them through museums, galleries, and local events. Dressing in layers is recommended as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Best Time to Visit Fort McMurray

The best time to visit Fort McMurray is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including rain and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fort McMurray

Do:

  • Respect Indigenous culture and traditions.
  • Dress in layers to be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Disrespect the locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray is a safe city, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as avoiding walking alone in secluded areas at night. It’s important to follow warnings and advice from local authorities during wildfire season, which typically occurs between May and August.

Health in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray has several hospitals and health clinics, but visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before their trip. Visitors should also be aware of the high UV exposure levels in the region and take precautions to protect their skin and eyes.

Getting to Fort McMurray: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fort McMurray

  • Fort McMurray International Airport: Located five kilometers southeast of the city center, this airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Fort McMurray

  • Greyhound: This bus station is located at 9713 Hardin St, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 4K3.

Other Options

  • Driving: Fort McMurray is accessible by road via the Highway 63 from Edmonton.

How to Get Around in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray has several options for getting around, including taxis, rental cars, and public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Fort McMurray: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fort McMurray is a great starting point for adventures in the surrounding areas, including:

  • Jasper National Park: A world-renowned destination known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
  • Canmore: A charming town located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, known for its fantastic hiking trails.
  • Yellowknife: An adventurous city located in the Northwest Territories, famous for the Northern Lights and ice fishing.

Conclusion

Fort McMurray is an exciting destination in Northern Alberta, offering visitors a unique combination of modern amenities and traditional cultural attractions. From outdoor adventures to museums and historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this iconic northern Alberta city.

Downtown Fort McMurray from the air Downtown Fort McMurray from the air Oil Sands Discovery Centre Oil Sands Discovery Centre Heritage Village Heritage Village