On Highway 43, approximately two hours northwest of Edmonton, Whitecourt lies at the junction of the McLeod and Athabasca Rivers. Known by several different names throughout its history, including Sagitawah, a Cree name meaning where the rivers meet, Whitecourt was the name eventually recognized. The community was incorporated as a village in 1959 and a town in 1961.

Cree Indians originally settled in the area and in 1897 a seasonal Hudson's Bay trading post opened. The arrival of John Goodwin and his family in 1904 heralded the beginning of European settlement. Early settlers were trappers, loggers, homesteaders and railway workers. These pioneers hailed from other parts of Canada as well as the USA, Great Britain and Europe. Today the forestry and oil industries form a vibrant part of Whitecourt's economy. A wide range of leisure activities are available and include archery, bowling, cross-country skiing, curling, golfing, horseback riding, boating, skating and snowmobiling.

Whitecourt accommodations include hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts and campgrounds.