Snye Point
If you're fairly new to the water, check out Snye Point, a public park and boat launch conveniently located in the heart of Fort McMurray at the entrance to the Clearwater River. Whether you're a solo kayaker, paddleboarding with a buddy or canoeing with the whole family, Snye Point is a great place to splash around for an hour or two. “Just get on the water,” Stirling says, “and go have fun.”
Maqua Lake
If you've got a little more experience, then head out into nature. Maqua Lake is a provincial recreation area located 40 km (25 mi) south of Fort McMurray, in Stony Mountain Wildland Provincial Park. As the name suggests, Maqua Lake is all about the body of water at its centre, which also features a beautiful sandy beach (not to mention less people than some other lakes in the area). And don't worry: Maqua is protected from the wind, so the water is typically calm and serene — the perfect place to get some experience in whatever craft you're using.
Clearwater River Float
Sometimes you just want to let the water do the work for you. Luckily, the area around Fort McMurray provides a chance to do just that. Grab a ride south of town along the winding Clearwater River and take your pick of two adjacent boat launches: the Tom Weber or the Raphael Cree. Then hop in your dinghy or inner tube, and kick back for a leisurely 90-minute float all the way back to Snye Point. “It provides an extra element that's different from flat water,” Stirling says. Plus, there’s a restaurant waiting for you at the take-out point, so you can relax on dry land with a nice meal.
Saskatchewan and Back Again
If you want more of a challenge, Stirling has a trip for you. His company offers an immersive 10-day trip that will take you more than 200 km (124 mi) from Northern Saskatchewan all the way back to Fort McMurray. Along the way you'll get a chance to navigate the rapids you're comfortable paddling through, and portage around the ones that pose more of a challenge. The Beyond Adventures package includes a floatplane ride out to the Warner Rapids, as well as all necessary equipment and food. It requires previous paddling experience — but it's worth it.