Gateway to the Industrial Heartland

The City of Fort Saskatchewan is located 25 km northeast of the City of Edmonton. Fort Saskatchewan plays a critical role in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and the economy of the province. It is a major hub for petrochemical production and Canada’s largest hydrocarbon processing region.

Fort Saskatchewan is its own municipality. It is not part of Strathcona County but it is bordered by it on all sides, other than the river. Once you head west across the river, you’re into Sturgeon County , important regional partners in the Industrial Heartland.

The Fort is home to about 25,000 people. It was established in 1875 by the North West Mounted Police. It has a colourful past, history enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the city, its historic downtown and the Fort Heritage Precinct.

Fort Saskatchewan Water Tower

The Water Tower

One of Fort Saskatchewan’s most recognizable landmarks is the water tower that has stood on that spot for over 60 years, built in 1957. The city added murals in 1985, in recognition of Fort Saskatchewan becoming a city.

It is a working water tower, containing 250,000 gallons of water that provides water pressure to the residents of Fort Saskatchewan. Tanks underneath the structure hold emergency stores of water for the city.

A sheep named Auggie…

In 1992, the City of Fort Saskatchewan decided to hire sheep to mow their lawns. This clever idea has led to international acclaim for its success. The city’s sheep have become a great tourist draw and a beloved part of the community. Annually, there is a “Welcome Back Celebration”, “Sheep Week” and a “Sheep Leaving Parade”. The wooly lawnmowers welcome visitors in the summer on weekends (check the City’s website for details). They have adopted a sheep named Auggie as their mascot, he even has his own account on X – @AuggieFtSk.

Fort Saskatchewan Train Station

History

If you enjoy history, then you will enjoy exploring Fort Saskatchewan. Visitors can explore the historic village and train station and remnants of the old fort. Learn about the Indigenous people who called this place “Birch Hills”; the fur traders and the NWMP.

The River Valley

One of our favourite things about the Fort is the fantastic river valley. Much of the city immediately borders the river & some of the views are awesome. Fort Saskatchewan has over 73 km of trails, mostly paved, well marked and easy to navigate. The Capital Region River Valley Park covers an impressive 18,000 acres and 88 km through the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Fort Saskatchewan River Valley

Links to learn more about the Community