Canada's Northwest Territories (NWT) has untouched natural beauty, rich indigenous culture, and unique experiences. From the breathtaking Northern Lights to the historic trails and expansive national parks, the NWT offers an array of unforgettable adventures.
The Northwest Territories offer remote wilderness and unique Indigenous cultures, whereas other locations like the East Coast feature scenic coastal landscapes and a rich maritime heritage.
This guide will take you through the top 10 must-see places, detailing everything you need to know for an incredible journey.
What Places Should You Visit in the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories offer an array of spectacular destinations that showcase their natural beauty and cultural richness.
Here are the top 10 must-see places in the Northwest Territories that you shouldn't miss.
1. Nahanni National Park Reserve
Nahanni National Park Reserve is one of Canada's most breathtaking natural treasures. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is celebrated for its stunning Virginia Falls, which are twice the height of Niagara Falls and plunge 96 meters into a deep gorge.
The park features dramatic canyons, unique karst topography, and soothing hot springs. It is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, Dall's sheep, and mountain goats.
Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, rafting, and soaking in the hot springs while enjoying the park’s serene and undisturbed environment.
Price:
- Entry fees are around CAD $10 per person.
Best time to visit:
- The ideal time to visit is from June to September when the weather is favorable, and the park is most accessible.
Recommended duration:
- You should spend at least 2-3 days exploring the park to fully appreciate its natural beauty and the range of activities available.
2. Yellowknife
Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, is known as one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. This city offers a unique blend of modern amenities and natural wonders.
Aurora Village, located just outside of Yellowknife, provides a premier viewing experience for this stunning natural phenomenon. Visitors can enjoy heated outdoor seats designed to keep them warm while they gaze at the aurora borealis dancing across the night sky.
Price:
- Aurora viewing packages start at around CAD $75. However, the Northern Lights can be seen for free from various locations around Yellowknife, such as Pilot's Monument, Fred Henne Territorial Park, and Vee Lake.
Best time to visit:
- The optimal time for aurora viewing is from late August to April when the nights are longest and the skies are clearest.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend 3-4 days fully enjoying the Northern Lights and exploring the city's attractions.
3. Great Slave Lake
Great Slave Lake is the deepest lake in North America and a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This vast lake offers fantastic opportunities for fishing, boating, and ice fishing during winter. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife and scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating and exploring the numerous bays and inlets, while winter provides the unique ice fishing experience on the frozen lake. Both the Northwest Territories and Central Canada feature extensive forests and large lakes, but the Northwest Territories stand out for their remote and less accessible wilderness.
Price:
- Access to the lake is free, but fishing licenses may cost around CAD $20.
Best time to visit:
- The lake can be enjoyed year-round, with summer ideal for boating and winter perfect for ice fishing.
Recommended duration:
- While a longer stay is recommended to fully experience the lake and its surroundings, even a day trip can offer a rewarding experience of its natural beauty.
4. Wood Buffalo National Park
Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada's largest national park, is a vast wilderness that offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. Spanning Alberta and the Northwest Territories, the park is home to roaming bison herds, the rare whooping crane, and the striking Salt Plains, where mineral deposits create a unique landscape.
Visitors can explore this pristine environment through various hiking trails that provide an intimate look at the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity. While the West Coast forests are predominantly temperate rainforests, rich in biodiversity and lush greenery, the Northwest Territories feature boreal forests with a harsher, more rugged environment.
Price:
- Entry fees start at around CAD $9.00. Camping fees range from CAD $15.70 for a basic site to CAD $31.50 for a serviced site with electricity.
Best time to visit:
- The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is favorable for wildlife viewing and hiking.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend 3-4 days thoroughly exploring and appreciating the park’s vast landscapes and diverse wildlife. Camping is available if you want to enjoy the beautiful surroundings all the way.
5. Ice Roads
The Northwest Territories' ice roads offer a unique, thrilling winter travel experience. These seasonal roads span frozen lakes and rivers, connecting remote communities that are otherwise inaccessible by land during the rest of the year.
Driving on these ice roads is an adventurous way to explore the region's stunning winter landscapes, making it a popular activity for locals and tourists. The ice roads are meticulously maintained to ensure safety, allowing travelers to confidently journey across vast frozen expanses.
Price:
- Costs vary based on vehicle type and whether you choose to take a guided tour. Tour services can provide additional safety and local insights.
Best time to visit:
- The ice roads are operational from December to April, offering the best conditions for travel during these months.
Recommended duration:
- Depending on your itinerary, tours and self-guided trips on the ice roads can last from 1 to 2 days, allowing you to fully experience this unique mode of winter travel.
6. Pingos in Tuktoyaktuk
Pingos, unique ice-cored hills formed by permafrost, are a fascinating geological phenomenon found in large concentrations near Tuktoyaktuk. These landforms offer visitors a unique visual and educational experience, drawing those interested in natural history and distinctive landscapes. The largest pingo in the area, Ibyuk Pingo, stands over 49 meters tall and is one of the tallest in the world.
Exploring these formations provides insight into the dynamic processes of permafrost and the Arctic environment.
Price:
- Tours to explore the pingos, which offer guided insights and transportation, can range from CAD $50 to $100.
Best time to visit:
- The best time to visit Tuktoyaktuk for pingo exploration is from June to August, when the region is most accessible.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend 1-2 days exploring the pingos and the surrounding Arctic landscape.
7. Nunavut
Nunavut, Canada's largest and newest territory, offers unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. This vast region features stunning landscapes, dramatic fjords, majestic glaciers, and pristine wilderness. You can find breathtaking scenery and Arctic wildlife, including polar bears and narwhals.
Nunavut's vibrant Inuit culture immerses visitors in traditional practices, art, dog sledding, and community life, providing a deep appreciation for the Inuit heritage. Whether drawn by landscapes or cultural experiences, Nunavut promises an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Best time to visit:
- Late spring to early summer (May to July) for milder weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
Recommended duration:
- 7-10 days to fully explore the region's natural wonders and cultural experiences.
8. Midnight Sun Events
Inuvik, located in the Northwest Territories, is famous for its unique midnight sun phenomenon, where the sun remains above the horizon for weeks during the summer. This continuous daylight creates a vibrant atmosphere for various cultural festivals, sports events, and local traditions.
The Midnight Sun events in Inuvik include the Midnight Sun Fun Run, Indigenous arts and crafts fairs, music festivals, and community gatherings, all taking advantage of the endless daylight to celebrate and share the region's rich cultural heritage.
Price:
- Entry fees for events vary depending on the activity.
Best time to visit:
- The best time to experience the Midnight Sun events is from late June to early July, during the peak of the midnight sun.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend 2 to 3 days to fully enjoy the events and the unique experience of the midnight sun.
8. Banks Island
Banks Island, located in the remote Arctic region of the Northwest Territories, is renowned for its rugged landscapes and rich Arctic wildlife. The island is home to abundant populations of muskoxen and polar bears, making it an exceptional destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors to Banks Island can experience the untouched beauty of the Arctic, with opportunities to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitats and explore the island's pristine environments.
Price:
- Tour packages to Banks Island can be expensive, starting around CAD $500, reflecting the trips' remote location and specialized nature.
Best time to visit:
- The best time to visit Banks Island is from July to August, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend at least 3 days fully exploring the island and enjoying its unique Arctic landscapes and wildlife.
9. Dempster Highway
The Dempster Highway is a legendary 740-km gravel road that connects Dawson City in Yukon to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories. This iconic route offers stunning views of the Arctic tundra, mountain ranges, and diverse wildlife, making it a dream destination for road trippers and adventure seekers.
Driving the Dempster Highway provides a unique opportunity to experience northern Canada's remote and rugged beauty, with its vast landscapes and rich natural heritage.
Price:
- The drive itself is free, but vehicle rental costs vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental company.
Best time to visit:
- The best time to travel the Dempster Highway is from late June to September when road conditions are most favorable.
Duration:
- Allow 4 to 5 days for the trip to fully enjoy the scenic views, wildlife, and unique stops along the way.
10. Great Northern Arts Festival
Held annually in Inuvik, the Great Northern Arts Festival celebrates the region's cultural heritage and artistic talent. This festival showcases northern artists, including indigenous crafts, music, and performances, offering a unique glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the Arctic.
Visitors can engage with artists, attend workshops, and enjoy a variety of performances that highlight the creativity and cultural diversity of the North.
The festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the artistic spirit and cultural vibrancy of the Northwest Territories.
Best time to visit:
- The festival takes place in July, making it the best time to visit.
Recommended duration:
- Plan to spend 2-3 days at the festival to fully immerse yourself in the events and activities.
Why Visit the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories offer unmatched adventure and tranquility. Their pristine wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, stunning geological formations, and rich indigenous culture. Experience true wilderness across vast, untouched landscapes.
From the Northern Lights to Great Slave Lake, the NWT provides unique experiences for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like navigating ice roads, attending the Great Northern Arts Festival, or marveling at Virginia Falls for unforgettable memories.
While the Northwest Territories have so much to offer, don’t forget to explore other areas of Canada.
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