About Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray is situated about a five hour drive to the northeast of Edmonton, Alberta, and is only 60 km west of the Saskatchewan border. It is situated at the confluence of the Clearwater and Athabasca Rivers surrounded by Canada’s boreal forest. Fort McMurray’s population of almost 73,000 includes both permanent and non-permanent residents. Due to the oil industry it is anticipated that Fort McMurray’s population will grow to 133,000 by 2028. Located just above the subarctic climate the summers are short with a July average temperature of 17°C and the winters are long and cold with a mean average of -19°C. Fort McMurray has played a significant role in Canada’s history of the petroleum industry.

Situated north of the 56th parallel means daylight lasts longer in Fort McMurray from about May to July giving people the option to golf until midnight on one of the three local golf courses. When the sun finally does set often the Aurora Borealis provides a spectacular display of light. Just outside of town there is a lookout to observe a rare herd of over 300 wood bison, and you can toss in a line to fish the area’s bountiful lakes and rivers. The Athabasca sand dunes tower 12 metres high and are well-worth seeing. In town there is fine dining, shopping, a movie theatre, art gallery, and there are plenty of sports activities to enjoy at the Suncor Community Leisure Centre including two hot tubs.