10 of the Best Hikes Near Fort McMurray, Alberta
There’s no need to go far to find a place to hike in and near this northern city. In fact, there are a wealth of trails winding through the heart of the town itself! Many of the trails listed below are bike- and dog-friendly. All you need is a pair of walking shoes and a camera to capture family memories or wildlife and wildflowers you encounter.
1. Abasand Trail Loop
Length: 3.4 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Located right near the city centre, this riverside walking and running trail is a beautiful little escape from the bustle of the city. Enjoy a few minutes of peace on a bench overlooking the Athabasca River in any season.
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2. Wood Bison Getaway & Matcheetawin Discovery Trail
Length: 4 km
Elevation Gain: Varies
Starting at an impressive stone sculpture of a Wood Bison herd, this interpretive trail system, named after the Cree word meaning “beginning place,” features a wide variety of reclaimed land and pretty wildflowers. Take your family!
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3. Beaver Trail
Length: 4 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
You can stay active year-round on the network of trails named after animals in the heart of Fort McMurray. This particular trail, one of many, winds through the forest, an escape from the city. Visit in the fall when the aspens are gloriously golden.
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4. Gregoire Lake Provincial Park Trails
Length: 6 km
Elevation Gain: Varies
Start or end this walk through the aspen and spruce forested park with a swim in Gregoire Lake during the summer. There are plenty of powered campsites, a boat launch and shower facilities. In the winter, go cross country skiing or snowshoeing along the trails and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful provincial park!
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5. Deer, Lynx and Wolf Trail
Length: 10.8 km
Elevation Gain: 239 m
These three linked, undulating trails feature a variety of paved, gravel and wood chip trails that are perfect for walking, biking and running. Enjoy views of the creek and be prepared for icy conditions in winter.
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6. Thickwood Trail Loop
Length: 9.8 km
Elevation Gain: 173 m
Start in town and make your way into what feels like the wilderness. This trail is great for various skill levels and activities; it takes two to three hours to complet. Keep an eye out for wildlife!
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7. Crane Lake Loop
Length: 3.1 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Follow this trail around Crane Lake and enjoy the interpretive signs explaining the reclamation work that has been done here, lake views and assortment of birds and animals that inhabit the area. Swimming is not allowed.
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8. Deer Trail to Bear Trail Loop
Length: 4.8 km
Elevation Gain: 106 m
Shorten the Deer, Lynx and Wolf Trail by creating a loop from the Deer Trail to the Bear Trail. Great for biking and cross-country skiing, this varied trail features a small creek and both open and forested views.
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9. TOTAL Aboriginal Interpretive Trail
Length: 9 km
Elevation Gain: 261 m
Supplement a nature walk with the seven three-dimensional art pieces from western Canadian Indigenous artists on this trail that takes you from Thickwood Park to McDonald Island Park, crossing the Athabasca River along the way.
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10. Thickwood Falls
Length: 1.4 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
For all you waterfall lovers out there, the trickle of water flowing over a sheer, layered cliff is a picturesque detour if you’re in the area! You might need to use ropes during the steep section. Wade into the little pool at the bottom on a sticky summer day and come back to enjoy sparkling icicles in the winter.
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