Timmins, Canada

With a population of just 43,686, Timmins is a remote outpost in northern Ontario where the long, brutal winters are a constant test of endurance. The city's economy revolves around resource extraction, with industries related to mining and forestry dominating the landscape. While the region's gold rush history has left a legacy of wealth, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache - the city was only incorporated in 1912, and even today the local government is still grappling with the aftermath of a devastating 1911 fire that destroyed much of the original settlement. Yet for hardy souls who can withstand the frigid climate, Timmins offers ample opportunity for outdoor recreation, from snowmobiling to cross-country skiing.