Category: Alberta

• Getting around Fort McMurray using public transportation can be tricky at times. There are public buses but these vehicles are often late, and you could be waiting for a bus past the scheduled arrival time.
• Fort McMurray involves numerous subdivisions, and these may only have a single entry/exit point. Know where this point is before you explore one of the subdivisions or plan to visit a residence or business in the area.
• There are several cab companies in Fort McMurray for visitors to choose from. Limousine services are also available. If you need a cab or limo call as soon as you know you will need transportation. Some of the services may be booked in advance and if you do not give enough notice you could end up waiting for your ride.
• When you are using the highway be prepared to see massive loads being hauled. It is not uncommon to see more than 1 truck hauling a load of equipment for one of the oil companies in Fort McMurray. Pay close attention and obey all the posted placards so that you stay safe while traveling on the highway.
• Some cab companies and shuttle services will offer discounted rates in certain situations. These rates may be provided to oil workers in the area and to certain locations. If you need to arrange for shuttle services in Fort McMurray it is a good idea to reserve a spot the day before if possible so you know you have the necessary transportation.

The Wood Buffalo Viewing Point and Bison Sanctuary is located very close to Fort McMurray, and it was created by Syncrude to help protect the Wood Bison which is native to this area. The attraction is situated just off of Highway 63 about 21 miles north of Fort McMurray. The sanctuary sits at the front entrance to the self guided trails developed by Syncrude. As you explore the trails you may see a number of Wood Bison, and it is important to remember that these are wild animals and not domesticated pets. You will also see many native plants and other species of wildlife. The bison herd is approximately 300 strong, and these animals are not usually aggressive but you should take care not to disturb or anger them in their natural habitat.

The Wood Buffalo Viewing Point and Bison Sanctuary is an exciting and scenic experience for all ages. The wood buffalo is the biggest terrestrial mammal that is native to Canada, and it can be enormous. This animal is similar in appearance to bison or plains buffalo, and an adult male can weigh as much as 1,000 kg. The Wood Buffalo Viewing Point and Bison Sanctuary is a fantastic place to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wide variety of wildlife in the area. Just don’t expect the buffalo to move around frequently or pose for the cameras. Often these animals stay in one spot for long periods of time. Use caution when calves are present in the herd, because this can bring out aggression in the animals if they feel threatened

There are several trade shows in Fort McMurray each year, and these events draw in many people and boost the local economy. There are two main trade shows held by the community on an annual basis, as well as a number of other similar events that are scheduled each year. The revenue that these events bring in to the Fort McMurray area can be substantial, and exhibitors from across Canada or even further away travel to Fort McMurray to participate in one or more trade shows. The Annual Spring Trade Show takes place in April and the Annual Fall Trade Show is held in September. Both are held at MacDonald Island. Both shows feature a very wide range of products, services, and information. You may find everything from arts and crafts to motor homes to hot tubs, and almost everything in between.

The Annual Spring Trade Show held in Fort McMurray will attract around 250 vendors and exhibitors, and the number of visitors to the event will usually number between 15,000 and 17,000 people. This provides a fantastic economic boost to the area because these visitors usually need flights, lodging, meals, and other travel amenities.  The Fort McMurray Annual Fall Trade Show is slightly smaller, and it usually attracts a little less than 200 vendors and exhibitors. Attendance at this event is also a little less than what is seen during the spring event, with between 13,000 and 15,000 people coming to the event. There are also smaller conventions and trade shows which may be scheduled during the year.