Sports & Recreation(Archives)
Winter Fun in YMM
Winter in the Wood Buffalo Region can be cold; really, really cold. But like true Canadians, we don’t let that slow us down. With surroundings as beautiful as ours, how could we do anything but get outside and enjoy it?
There are lots of options when it comes to outdoor fun in and around Fort McMurray. And thankfully, there are plenty of cold wintery months available to try them all out.
Here are a few of our favourites:
Snowmobiling
There’s nothing quite like zipping through the snow and feeling the cold air against your skin as you take in the gorgeous scenery all around while riding a snowmobile. With hundreds of kilometers of trails, cut lines and navigable waterways to explore, Northern Alberta is a snowmobiler’s paradise. The McMurray Sno Drifters club, a group of local enthusiasts, has partnered with the Municipality, Sustainable Resources, and industry to designate, develop and maintain snowmobile trails throughout the region. Purchase a trail pass from any member of the club, follow the bylaws and rules, and you’ll be ready to have some fun in the snow! For more information about snowmobiling in and around Fort McMurrray, contact the McMurray Sno-Drifters at sno-drifters.com.
Dogsledding
Looking for a more historical ride through our winterwonderland? Allow a team of dogs to pull you through an old mail route which takes you through the wilderness between Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan. It’s a breath-taking way to experience a piece of our region’s rich cultural history. Plus it’s a bunch of dogs working together to give you the ride of your life! What’s not to love? Want to learn more about dogsledding in our region? Visit www.mushmcmurray.com.
Snowshoeing and Skiing
Sometimes exploring on foot is the best way to enjoy your surroundings. With the amazing scenery and vast trail systems throughout Fort McMurray and the surrounding region, strapping snowshoes or cross-country skis on and playing in the snow is just another fantastic winter adventure opportunity. Looking for information about cross country skiing in Fort McMurray? Visit www.ptarmigannordic.org.
Skating
With so many rinks both indoors and outdoors, endless hours of fun on ice are a possibility this winter! Whether you’re looking for a leisurely glide on the ice, a pick-up game of hockey, or organized participation in figure skating, hockey, or ringette, Fort McMurray’s skating scene will not disappoint! For a list of outdoor rinks in the Municipality, visit www.woodbuffalo.ab.ca/Municipal-Government/municipal_departments/Community-Services-Department/Recreation-Facilities/Outdoor-Rinks.htm
Historical
Winter Fun Wood Buffalo Wilderness Tours can take you on a trapline experience where you’ll learn about traditional aboriginal ways. Always wanted to try driving on a winter road? Try it out on the winter road from Fort McMurray to Fort Chipewyan, the oldest settlement in Alberta! For more information, visit www.wbwtours.com.
Look Up! Way Up!
Take a moment to consider that many people on Earth will never see the majesty of the Northern Lights. Now take a moment to consider how lucky we are to have this mesmerizing dynamic light show light up our northern skies as often as they do! Go out on your own, or book a guide, and be sure to bundle up as you prepare to watch the night sky dance! Want to book a guided tour? Visit www.altacan.ab.ca.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Who needs the mountains when Vista Ridge All Seasons Park offers skiing, riding and sliding for the whole family? Located just minutes from Fort McMurray, this is one of Alberta’s largest non-mountain ski areas, and offers a great experience for skiers, snowboarders and tube park enthusiasts of all levels. Ready to plan your visit to Vista Ridge? Visit vistaridge.ab.ca.
Ice Fishing
Fishing is great around here...whatever time of year, and winter is no exception! Known for its incredible ice fishing, our region boasts several locations to cast your line at. We’re betting you’ll catch a big one!
Oil Sands Discovery Centre
Even though there’s so much to do outdoors during our winters, there are some days where being warm and cozy inside can’t be beat. Luckily there are plenty of indoor options for enjoying our region, one of which is the Oil Sands Discovery Centre. Learn about history, science, and technology of the oil sands through interactive displays, and so much more! For more information, visit history.alberta.ca/oilsands/aboutthecentre/aboutthecentre.aspx.
Looking for more amazing things to do in and around Fort McMurray this winter? Visit: www.fortmcmurraytourism.com
