Fort Smith

Introducing Fort Smith

On a high bluff above the Slave River, Fort Smith is absurdly friendly, idyllic – and somewhat un-Northern. Maybe it’s the brick homes, ball fields and water tower, or the fact that the town abuts Alberta. For years this was the gateway to the North, situated at the end of a portage route around the Slave River rapids. The Hudson’s Bay Company set up shop here in 1874, and until Yellowknife became the territorial capital in 1967, this was the administrative center for most of Canada’s northern territories. Today the town remains a peaceful, appealing government hub and the headquarters of Wood Buffalo National Park. Two-thirds of the 2360 residents are Cree, Chipewyan or Métis.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009