Things To Do
in Wood Buffalo
Wood Buffalo is a vast northern region in northeastern Alberta, characterized by boreal forests, wetlands, and expansive wilderness surrounding Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo National Park. The area blends Indigenous heritage, frontier energy development, and pristine natural landscapes that host iconic wildlife and wetlands. Visitors encounter dramatic seasonal shifts, from deep winter cold to brief, sun-filled summers with abundant wildlife activity.
The region offers a rare mix of urban amenities in Fort McMurray and untouched wilderness within protected parks, making it a unique northern destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, soaking in the warmth of the community. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Fort Smith area, admiring the quaint architecture and learning about the town's rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Fort Smith Heritage Museum, where you'll discover artifacts that tell the story of Indigenous and settler life in the region.
After a morning of exploration, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers local cuisine, perhaps featuring fresh fish from the nearby rivers. Following your meal, embark on a guided tour of the Wood Buffalo National Park, where you can witness the vast landscapes and diverse wildlife, including bison and migratory birds. This immersive experience will deepen your understanding of the park's ecological significance and the efforts to preserve it.
As the sun sets, return to Fort Smith and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can savor dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Slave River, watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors as the day fades away. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing above, providing a magical end to your day.
Start your day early with a packed breakfast to maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities in Wood Buffalo National Park. Join a guided tour that focuses on spotting the park's incredible fauna, including bison, elk, and various bird species, while learning about their habitats. The morning light provides perfect conditions for photography, so be sure to have your camera ready.
After a fruitful morning, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the serenity of the park. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby salt plains or the stunning Peace River area, where you can see unique geological formations and possibly spot even more wildlife. Engage with your guide to learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation to refresh, then head out for dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in regional dishes. Post-dinner, consider joining a night tour that allows for stargazing in this dark sky preserve, where the clarity of the night sky reveals countless stars and constellations. This peaceful experience will leave you in awe of the natural beauty surrounding Wood Buffalo.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 CAD |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-110 CAD |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-260 CAD |
| 🛒Groceries per week | $100-250 CAD |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.40-1.80 CAD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vast wilderness and close proximity to Fort McMurray urban amenities
- Rich wildlife viewing and dramatic seasonal scenery
- Strong Indigenous heritage and Northern Canadian culture
- Remote location with long travel times from major hubs
- Extreme winter conditions and variable summer mosquitoes
- Limited public transit outside the city core
Places to Visit in Wood Buffalo
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside vantage with the river, bridges, and city lights reflecting in golden hour glow.
Industrial architecture and reflective surfaces, best captured at dawn or dusk when the light is softer.
Expansive, otherworldly flats with boreal forest framing; dramatic wide-angle shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.
River views paired with public art and murals in Fort McMurray for colorful, documentary-style photography.
Food in Wood Buffalo
Wood Buffalo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic flatbread served warm, often paired with local berry jams or savory toppings.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked game meat stew with root vegetables and herbs, a staple during colder months.
Freshwater fish prepared simply with herbs; a popular choice in regional eateries and lodges.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and craft stalls; great for sampling regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, do not feed animals, and dispose of trash properly to protect ecosystems.
Respect Indigenous territories, heritage sites, and local customs; ask for permission when visiting culturally sensitive areas.
In cold seasons, dress in layers and protect extremities; when indoors, remove hats in some venues as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Wood Buffalo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Canada. In restaurants, a 15-20% tip for good service is common; people also tip taxi drivers and hotel staff similarly.
Cash, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are available in Fort McMurray; some remote lodges may require advance payment or bank transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with abundant wildlife activity; mosquitoes can be persistent; bring repellent, lightweight layers, and sun protection. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Very cold temperatures with heavy snowfall and limited daylight; dress in multiple insulating layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated footwear. Driving can be hazardous; carry emergency supplies and check weather advisories.
Melt and mud in transitional trails; wildlife begins to emerge; temperatures vary widely. Pack waterproof gear and allow extra time for travel as trails may be soft.
Cool to chilly days with changing colors in boreal forests; earlier sunsets and possible hunting seasons. Dress in layers and carry a flashlight for dusk activities.
Wood Buffalo at Night
Hiking in Wood Buffalo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes through boreal forest, wetlands, and access to wildlife viewing.
Riverside hikes with scenic views of the water and surrounding forested landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Wood Buffalo by plane.
Primary regional gateway with connections to Edmonton and Calgary; car rental and shuttle services available.
Major hub offering extensive domestic and international flights; accessible by road or air link from Fort McMurray.
Another major hub with broad connections; often used for long-haul itineraries via air routing.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes Cree and Dene heritage alongside Métis populations, contributing to a diverse cultural landscape.
Residents connected to the oil sands industry, service sectors, and local communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter staple with local leagues, rinks, and community centers.
Widely enjoyed on winter trails across frozen lakes and forests.
Seasonal fishing in rivers and lakes around the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wood Buffalo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus offer veggie-focused dishes; look for grain bowls, salads, roasted vegetables, and bannock-based sides. When in doubt, ask for dairy or egg substitutes and request vegetable-forward options.