Higher load limits set for winter roads with return of colder weather

Load limits for winter roads in the region will be raised with the arrival of colder temperatures.

Follow all signage, drive to conditions and watch for increased equipment and repair activity on roads.

Fort Chipewyan Winter Road load limit update

Thursday, Jan. 15

• Daytime weight restriction - 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. to light vehicles less than 5,000 kg in weight.
• After 10 p.m., load limit increases to 15,000 kg.

Friday Jan. 16 - Sunday, Jan. 18

•         Daytime weight restrictions lifted. The 15,000 kg load limit in effect.

Monday, Jan. 19 – 8 a.m.

•         The limit will increase to 27,500 kg. until further notice.

La Loche Winter Trail load limit update

Thursday, Jan. 15 – Sunday, Jan. 18

•         The 5,000 kg load limit remains in effect.

Monday, Jan. 19 – 8 a.m.

•         The limit will increase to 27,500 kg – until further notice.

Further increases to load limits will be made as soon as it is safe to do so. All changes to the limits 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. 

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.

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.