Fort Chipewyan, Alberta

Fort Chipewyan is situated in Alberta's far north, 280 kilometers (174 miles) north of Fort McMurray and 702 kilometers (436 miles) northeast of the provincial capital of Edmonton. The community is located on the shore of Lake Athabasca, near Wood Buffalo National Park, and the Allison Bay, Devil's Gate, and Chipewyan Indian reserves.

The oldest continuous European settlement in Alberta, Fort Chipewyan began as a North West Company fur-trading post in 1788. The fort was once so important to the fur trade that it was known as the "Emporium of the North." Today, visitors can see artifacts from this bygone era at the Fort Chipewyan Bicentennial Museum.

The greatest natural attraction in the area is undoubtedly Wood Buffalo National Park. With an area of 44,807 square kilometers (11,072,050 acres), this is the largest park in Canada and also an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park supports and protects one of the largest free-roaming bison herds on earth, the last natural nesting ground of the endangered whooping crane, the traditional practices of local aboriginal peoples, and vast expanses of boreal wilderness.

The pristine wilderness surrounding Fort Chipewyan offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. In warm weather, enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing, boating, and water-skiing in the area's crystal-clear rivers and lakes. Biking, ATVing, and hiking are also popular activities. Big game hunters will be delighted by the area's abundant wildlife, which includes moose, elk, bear, and many other animals. Four different migration routes cross over Fort Chipewyan, making it an ideal site for bird watching. Winter may be cold, but it also brings plenty of fun. Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and dogsled excursions are sure to keep you warm and active. Lastly, don't forget that the spectacular sight of the aurora borealis can be seen all year round.

Historic, beautiful, and untamed – that's Fort Chipewyan!

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