Welcome to Northwest Territories Adventure Travel — your official guide to eco-conscious travel in one of Canada's most rugged and remote regions. Known as the "Land of the Midnight Sun," this vast territory is home to untouched wilderness, Indigenous cultures, and some of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world. From the dazzling Aurora Borealis to Canada’s deepest lake, the Northwest Territories (NWT or N.W.T.) promises unforgettable adventures and authentic Canadian experiences.
The Northwest Territories Adventure Travel experience is rooted in the landscape itself. Located in northern Canada, the NWT is defined by the Boreal Forest, Canadian Shield, Mackenzie Delta, and the frigid shores of the Arctic Ocean. At the heart of it all lies the capital city of Yellowknife, perched on the northern edge of Great Slave Lake — the second-largest lake entirely within Canada and the deepest in North America.
Notably, the Mackenzie River — Canada’s longest river — flows through this rugged land, which is also home to Inuvik, the northernmost town in Canada. Much of the territory remains wild, with few roads and even fewer cities, offering adventurers the rare opportunity to truly disconnect and embrace pristine nature.
Fortunately, Northwest Territories Adventure Travel is all about embracing the outdoors. A wide variety of activities cater to every level of explorer. Popular things to do include fishing, kayaking, birding, and hiking through endless backcountry trails. In the winter months, dog sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing take center stage — and if you're lucky, you’ll catch the northern lights, visible up to 250 nights per year.
In summer, paddlers can explore wild rivers, while photographers flock to waterfalls along the scenic Waterfall Highway. Moreover, the midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight, maximizing your adventure time.
Several protected areas across the N.W.T. rank among the most remote and majestic in the world. For instance, Nahanni National Park Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the 90-metre-high Virginia Falls and dramatic canyons carved by the South Nahanni River. The Wood Buffalo National Park — the second-largest on Earth — protects the last natural nesting ground of the endangered whooping crane.
Aulavik National Park on Banks Island shelters a herd of 80,000 musk oxen, while the Tuktut Nogait National Park remains one of Canada’s least-visited destinations, perfect for travelers seeking true solitude. Even Great Bear Lake, Canada’s largest entirely domestic freshwater lake, offers world-class fishing and cultural experiences with local Indigenous guides.
Because of the fragile northern ecosystem, eco-travel is essential when exploring the N.W.T. Travelers are encouraged to leave no trace, travel in small groups, and use local guides whenever possible. Many tourism operators in the Northwest Territories are Indigenous-owned and offer sustainable, culturally respectful experiences that educate and inspire.
Furthermore, wildlife such as the elusive Grolar bear (a rare mix of grizzly and polar bear) and herds of bison require respectful observation. Ice roads, float planes, and boats are often necessary for access to remote locations, so proper planning and responsible travel are key.
Ultimately, Northwest Territories Adventure Travel isn’t just a trip — it’s a transformation. It’s where your spirit reconnects with nature, and every day brings new awe. Whether it's paddling past muskoxen on the tundra, hiking under endless daylight, or witnessing the northern lights in absolute silence, the N.W.T. delivers rare and profound experiences.
Above all, adventures here are led by nature, shaped by Indigenous knowledge, and powered by the courage to go beyond the ordinary. For those seeking meaningful, sustainable, and off-the-beaten-path travel, this is the place.
Explore eco-friendly adventures, local culture, and outdoor activities with EH Canada Travel’s Northwest Territories Adventure Travel guide. Your next wild Canadian journey begins here.
Discover the top things to do, tips, parks, and must-see attractions in the N.W.T. Start your Northwest Territories Adventure Travel experience today and explore Canada’s true north.
Great article Sonya. It was really interesting to learn how you packed for your trans Canada hike. I was also happy to see some similarities in what we pack (as reassurance, that my packing is on the right track). We always pack a pair of camp shoes too, which are usually sport sandals. We...
Great article Sonya. It was really interesting to learn how you packed for your trans Canada hike. I was also happy to see some similarities in what we pack (as reassurance, that my packing is on the right track). We always pack a pair of camp shoes too, which are usually sport sandals. We also pick a light weight 3-person tent, for the same reasons you did. I just upgraded my sleeping pad to one that is still light weight but has a higher R-value and is thicker. It is SOOOO dreamy and comfortable. For navigation we have the Garmin Inreach Mini and also use the Gaia GPS app and always have our back up paper map.
You'll have to give yourself a day or 2 next time. It is worth it!
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