Fort McMurray, nestled at the confluence of four rivers in northeastern Alberta, was established as a Hudson's Bay Company fur trading post in 1870 by Henry John Moberly who named the fort in honour of the company's chief factor, William McMurray. The vast array of rich natural resources in the region, including one of the world's single largest oil deposits in the tar sands around Lake Athabaska, ensured its steady growth. With the discovery of commercially viable extraction methods in the late 1960s, Fort McMurray boomed and is today a vibrant community.

Nature lovers will glory in the beauty of the area and gaze in awe at the Aurora Borealis. Outdoor activities abound such as fishing pristine lakes, canoeing historic routes, exploring the sand dunes, golfing, skiing, snowboarding, curling and snowmobiling. During your visit to Fort McMurray, don't miss the fascinating tour of either the Syncrude or Suncor mine sites. Book your tour well in advance through Fort McMurray Tourism and allow time to browse through the educational Oil Sands Discovery Centre.

Fort McMurray accommodations include hotels, motels, country inns and bed and breakfasts.