Birchwood Trails

Explore the Birchwood Trails

The 135-km maintained trail system known as the Birchwood Trails creates endless opportunities for community members to enjoy the outdoors within Fort McMurray. 

This urban trail system is located between the neighbourhoods of Thickwood and Timberlea, and offers natural, asphalt, gravel and groomed snow trails winding through the boreal forest. 

You can walk, run, bike, cross-country ski and inline skate through the natural beauty of the Birchwood Trails. Choose your route according to your preference, whether it's on the more level trails along the perimeter or the steeper, hilly trails further into the forested ravine. 

Plan your next adventure using the Birchwood Trails Map. 

Accessing the Birchwood Trails

There are many access points to the Birchwood Trails available in the neighbourhoods of Thickwood, Timberlea and Dickinsfield.

Don't know where to start? Begin exploring the Birchwood Trails from the Doug Barnes Cabin, located beside 190 Tamarack Way.

Watch for wildlife

Many wild animals make their home in the Birchwood Trails, and are an important part of the boreal forest ecosystem.

All trail users must remember to watch for bears, and whether you’re hiking, biking, or just walking along the treeline, always be BearSmart:

• Don't wear headphones or anything that might compromise your hearing.
• Bring bear spray with you and keep it in an easily accessible place, such as at your belt instead of inside a backpack.