Clear skies and crisp air are the quintessential NWT winter experience and there are a number of sports and activities to enjoy in Fort Smith that will have you enjoying that fresh winter air.
Explore Fort Smith
Are you looking for things to do this winter?
Find information on snowboarding, skiing, tobogganing, the best place to get a hot chocolate, and so much more!
Snowboarding
The Snowboard Park is the place to be in the winter with one of the best terrain parks in the North. The site overlooks the majestic Slave River, along Marine Drive. and includes seven features that let users build skills and develop confidence. From a border cross run to a 20-foot big air jump, and smaller feature rides, there is fun for all levels. The snowboard park is designed with the whole family in mind, you can enjoy the park whether snowboarding, skiing or tobogganing. There is something for everyone.
Cross-Country Skiing
Summer’s scenic hiking trails become breathtaking cross-country skiing trails in winter. The Fort Smith Ski Club has a network of well-maintained trails groomed for classic and skate skiing. These trails wind through the boreal forest and offer panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape, as well as 1.5 kilometres of lit trails for night skiing. The Ski Club also organizes Western Canada’s oldest classic ski tour, the Thebacha Loppet. For up-to-date information go to: https://fortsmithskiclub.ca/
Ski and Biathlon Trails
The Fort Smith Ski Club & Nordic Centre maintains a network of groomed trails suitable for light touring, skate skiing, and backcountry skiing. The trails offer panoramic views of the Slave River and the surrounding boreal forest. Begin at the Ski Club Chalet, 4 kilometres east of Fort Smith on Highway 5.
Important Note on Dog Team Trails:
Several people in Fort Smith run dog teams, either as part of a traditional lifestyle or as a recreational pastime. Often, dog teams share trails with hikers, cyclists, skiers, snowmobilers, ATV drivers and dirt bike drivers. However, most trails used by dog teams are outside the limits of the town of Fort Smith.
Dog teams are run in the winter using sleds and in the summer using ATVs. If you encounter a dog team, it is important to give the team the right of way. Make sure the musher sees you then leave the trail and allow the team to pass. Always keep your dog on a leash when using trails frequented by dog teams. Off-leash dogs and dog teams can be a lethal combination for the dogs involved.
Curling
We have something for everyone -- from the novice to the expert. Whether you want to play in our competitive or fun leagues, get your kids into curling or join our active seniors' league, the Fort Smith Curling Centre provides an atmosphere of friendly competition and camaraderie. Fort Smith Curling Club
Tobogganing
Join us at our favourite toboggan run at the Fort Smith Snowboarding Park! A specially groomed hill makes for the perfect slide down. Bring your favourite form of toboggan slippery slide, wooden toboggan, inflatable tube or just a garbage bag! You're sure to have fun!
Snowmobiling
Thick, frozen lakes and rivers make excellent snowmobile trails in the winter months. Few fences and early snow make it easy to enjoy the terrain for fun or as a form of transportation. Many locals use snowmobile trails around town for day-to-day travel. Join us for our favourite snowmobiling event, the Fort Smith Ice and Snow Races!
Snowshoeing
Explore the trails around town on a pair of snowshoes, channelling bygone years of hunters, trappers and fur traders. Snowshoes allow you to walk across deep snow and into the backcountry. Find out more information on trails and their difficulty level. Contact the Fort Smith Community and Recreation Centre for information about snowshoe rentals: 867-872-4732.
Ice Fishing Derby
Every spring, when the days get a little longer and the sun is up a little higher, it’s time to go ice fishing. The annual Fort Smith Ice Fishing Derby is a three-day event in mid- to late March, with a two-night winter camping option. Contact 867-872-2973 for more information.