Cold Meter

Level 1 on the Fort McMurray Cold Meter is "A Nice Winter Day". It doesn't seem too cold outside, but the temperature is below 0°C. Take advantage of the milder weather and take a walk at one of Fort McMurray's many amazing parks and trails. Visit our Parks & Nature page to learn more about some great winter walks.

Level 2 on the Fort McMurray Cold Meter is "A Tad Chilly". You'll definitely want some mittens and warm socks, but it's a perfect temperature to go out and give snowshoeing a try. Visit our Winter Activities page to learn more about where you can rent gear and where to go snowshoeing in the area. There are tons of trails within the city limits to explore, and even more heading out into the back country.

Level 3 on the Fort McMurray Cold Meter is ''Brisk". Nothing that a warm jacket and some light ski pants can't help. The perfect activity in this kind of temperature is Skiing or Skating. Visit our Winter Activities page to learn about downhill skiing at Vista Ridge and where to find groomed cross-country skiing trails and rent gear at the Doug Barnes Cabin. You can also find information about the boarded outdoor rinks, skating trails, and outdoor skating areas around the region. Keeping active will keep you nice and warm on a brisk winter day.

Level 4 on the Fort McMurray Cold Meter is "Cold Weather" - this is where the mercury is starting to drop and you'll want to bundle up. But don’t worry, you'll be having too much fun tearing up the trails to even notice the cold when you head out Snowmobiling. There are multiple snowmobile rental companies in town and operators who can take you out the explore our big backyard which boasts some of the best snowmobiling trails Alberta has to offer. Checkout our Snowmobiling page to learn more.

Level 5 on our Cold Meter is "BRRR" - Once you've got some warm winter gear on, the perfect activity to try on a day like today is Dog Sledding. You'll be bundled up nice and warm in the sled while those furry companions transport you to another world. There are a couple of sled dog tour operators in the region. checkout our Dog Sledding page to inquire with them for availability.

Level 6 of the Fort McMurray Cold Meter is "Frost Bite", this is where things start to get pretty serious. Extended periods of cold weather exposure in this zone can be dangerous if you're not prepared. It doesn't mean there's nothing to do, though. To keep warm and shed some layers, why not try Ice Fishing? Ice fishers here have heaters in their shelters, you'll be almost as warm as if you stayed indoors. There are many operators who can take you out for a fun filled day on one of the many frozen lakes in the area. Check out our Ice Fishing page to learn more about where to go, and what to bring and which operators can get you suited up to enjoy the cold!

Level 7 of our Fort McMurray Cold Meter is “Stay Inside”, which is what we’ll be doing when it’s this cold out there. Fortunately, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in the warmth and comfort of the indoors. Take in a show Keyano Theatre, or head to MacDonald Island Park and enjoy the many indoor recreation options. Go see a movie at Landmark Cinemas or let the kids blow off some steam at an indoor playground. The food and beverage or a meal at a café or restaurant, or check out some live music at numerous pubs and music venues. Don’t forget to plug in your vehicle! (no really - we mean it!)