The winter road to Fort Chipewyan will officially open tomorrow, Tuesday December 15. The opening is on schedule in spite of recent weather that forced crews to work on the road at night because the daytime temperatures were warmer than normal. After the road opens initial traffic will have some restrictions due to weather factors. Only light traffic, and vehicles that weigh a maximum of 5,000 kilograms will be allowed to use the winter road, and high clearance 4X4 vehicles are recommended right now according to the RMWB. Drivers are also cautioned that the delta section still has some rough road. According to an MWB press release drivers are asked to obey all of the signage posted along the road, and to keep an eye out for workers who are continuing their efforts to prepare the road for the expected winter traffic.

Drivers who travel the Fort Chipewyan winter road need to be prepared for any type of emergency. The road does not offer any gas stations, cell phone coverage is almost nonexistent along much of the winter road, and there are not any road patrols which look for motorists in trouble. Drivers who become stranded in the cold weather temperatures could quickly face serious trouble along the winter road if they are not properly prepared. Updates on the road condition and any restrictions in place can be found on social media and the website for RMWB. The La Loche winter trail has not opened yet this year and is still under construction, but this trail is expected to open up later in December if everything goes as planned. Have you ever used the Fort Chipewyan winter road? Why, and what was your experience?