Fort Chipewyan Winter Road opening at noon Dec. 20

The Fort Chipewyan Winter Road is opening at noon, Saturday, Dec. 20, to light vehicles less than 5,000 kg in weight.

Drivers should watch for equipment and crews on the road and expect rough spots. High clearance 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended – remember to drive to conditions and follow all signage.

Weight limits will be increased as soon as it is safe to do so. All changes to the weight limit will be formally announced. Vehicles on the winter road that are heavier than the posted weight limits will be subject to serious fines and penalties. 

Free personal air shipping for community members will end with road opening

The free personal air shipping to Fort Chipewyan that has been available to community members through McMurray Aviation will end with the opening of the winter road. All shipments already being processed will be completed.

Speeding on the winter road is dangerous and destructive

Don’t speed on the winter road. In most sections, the speed limit is 50 km/hr but drops to 15 km/hr at river crossings. It is extremely dangerous, especially through the delta section, to speed. Fast moving vehicles can build a wave under the ice, breaking ice and damaging the road.

Watch for construction work on Highway 63

Drivers can expect reduced speeds and lane restrictions on Highway 63 past the South Gate of the winter road while crews inspect and repair a cavity beneath the roadway. It’s expected that repairs, including filling the cavity, will take five to seven days to complete. Check 511.alberta.ca for the most recent updates.

La Loche Winter Trail remains closed, work progressing well

Crews are making good progress, but the winter trail remains closed while work continues. Safe ice thickness on the Christina River crossing is needed for heavy equipment to complete construction of the eastern half of the trail. 

Important reminders

• Stay on the right-hand side of the road, especially on hills.
• All heavy vehicles (fuel trucks, semi-trailers, etc.), require a permit to use the winter road. Submit a permit application as soon as possible to prevent any delays.
• Find information on permits and other details in the Heavy Vehicle Information Package.
• Review the Winter Road Safety Tips before travelling.  

Winter road updates, safety tips and other resources are available at rmwb.ca/winterroads. Road users can also get updates by calling the Winter Road Hotline at 1-866-743-6111, or by signing up for email updates at rmwb.ca/subscribe.