swim

Fort Smith is one of the most practical and cost-effective access points to the largest wilderness left in North America: the storied Arctic Barren Lands (mainland tundra) of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

Canoeists from all over North America and Europe come to Fort Smith to paddle the Barren Lands on some of the most remote and wild rivers on the planet.

courtesy WBNPSituated in Wood Buffalo National Park, Pine Lake is an aquamarine lake in the middle of the boreal forest, about 60 km (a 45-minute drive) from Fort Smith. Created by a series of three sink holes, the lake is a get-away destination for residents of Fort Smith.

courtesy WBNP

Wood Buffalo National Park is Canada’s largest national park. It was established in 1922 to protect the world's largest herd of free-roaming wood bison, currently estimated at more than 5,000. It is the only known nesting site of whooping cranes.

Axe Handle Hill

Axe Handle Hill Park is located at the eastern end of the Town of Fort Smith between Pine Crescent and Park Drive.

When using the trails along the Slave River during the summer (May through October), it is important to be aware of wildlife, particularly black bears. Be Bear Aware. Black bears use the river as a migration route, and though human encounters with bears are rare, they do happen. Inform yourself about how to avoid an encounter with a bear, and know how to react if one does occur.

Opened in 2007, the Fort Smith Swimming Pool is a family-friendly facility designed with easy access for children, seniors, and the mobility-challenged. Features include:

• Four swimming lanes, 1m to 2.5m in depth
• Beach area for children's play
• Waterfall play feature
• Two water slides
• Jacuzzi hot tub
• Sauna
• Steam room

The swimming pool is located in the Recreation and Community Centre. Programs include: