Cold weather keeping Fort Chipewyan Winter Road open

Cold weather and a late spring means the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road remains open at its maximum weight limit of 45,000 kg.  

All weight limit reductions will be declared in advance as spring approaches and temperatures rise. As in past years, daytime load limits will be announced as the weather warms. As those limits are announced, heavier vehicles (and eventually all passenger vehicles) will be travelling only at night during colder temperatures to minimize damage to the road and preserve it for as long as possible.  

Be prepared for rough driving conditions 

Drivers on the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road should be prepared for rough conditions in the coming days, as spring-like temperatures degrade the road’s surface. Please drive cautiously, follow all posted signage and plan for the trip to take longer than normal.   

Winter road renamed to “Michael Cardinal Winter Road” 

Work is underway to update road signage and other material for the official renaming of the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road to the Michael Cardinal Winter Road. The updates will be in place for the start of the 2026-27 winter road season. 

This follows Council’s decision last month to rename the road after Michael Cardinal, a member of the Delta Rough Riders, who led the effort to build the winter road between Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan.  

Important reminders: 

• Stay on the right-hand side of the road, especially on hills  
• Stop at river crossings – only one vehicle can cross at a time  
• Be cautious, and always be aware of crews and equipment working on the road  
• All heavy vehicles, such as fuel trucks and semi-trailers, require a permit to use the winter road. Find more information on permits and other important details in the Heavy Vehicle Information Package.  
• Review the Winter Road Safety Tips before travelling.    

Don’t miss a Winter Road update 

Check the following sources for the latest information: 

• Sign up for email updates at subscribe.rmwb.ca 
• Winter Road Hotline (recorded message) - 866-743-6111 
• Municipal website at rmwb.ca/winterroads 
• RMWB Facebook and Twitter accounts 

To learn more about the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road, visit rmwb.ca/winterroads 

For further information or questions, please contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or online at rmwb.ca/pulse. 

-30-