The Northwest Territories in Canada are home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems. With vast wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, it is no wonder this region attracts adventurers from all over the world.
Canadian Northwest is hard to imagine with an extensive swath of boreal forest and Arctic tundra. Therefore, the best places to visit in Northwest Territories offer incredible outdoor experiences, from hiking rugged mountains to relaxing in natural hot springs.
Whether seeking solitude, a chance to see the Northern Lights in Canada, or to explore indigenous cultures, this area has amazing locations to offer to everyone who loves nature and adventure.
1. Yellowknife
Yellowknife, the capital of Northwest Territories, offers an exciting mix of urban and natural wonders. The city sits right on the edge of Great Slave Lake, perfect for outdoor adventures. It is one of the best spots to check out in Northwest Territories to see the northern lights, especially during the winter months.
Visitors can enjoy canoeing, hiking, and exploring the rich local history. Overall, with a lively arts scene and several museums, Yellowknife provides something for every traveller seeking excitement and relaxation in one place.
Yellowknife combines city comforts with outdoor adventure, making it ideal for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
2. Tombstone Mountains
Know that the Tombstone Mountains offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in Northwest Territories. Towering peaks, jagged ridges, and wide-open valleys create a paradise for hikers and photographers. The area is part of the Ogilvie Mountains and provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for those willing to explore.
Wildlife enthusiasts visiting the Tombstone Mountains often spot caribou, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep. Because of its remote location, moving to a different province might feel simpler than travelling here, but the journey is worth it. The Dempster Highway provides the main access, offering incredible views as you drive toward this hiking hotspot.
3. Nahanni National Park Reserve
Nahanni National Park Reserve is one of the most stunning and remote areas in Canada. The park is famous for its majestic Virginia Falls, which are twice as high as Niagara Falls. It offers a range of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, rafting, and wildlife watching. With its rugged canyons and lush forests, Nahanni is a must-visit for adventurers. Also, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park preserves some of the most pristine landscapes in the world, making it one of the best places to see in Northwest Territories.
4. Great Slave Lake
Great Slave Lake is a huge, crystal-clear body of water located in the heart of Northwest Territories. Great Slave Lake is the deepest, followed by Crater Lake and then Lake Tahoe. The shoreline of this body of water runs for a sprawling 1,690 miles, and there is an additional 512 miles of shoreline spread among the 26 main islands in the lake.
It holds the title of Canada's deepest lake and is perfect for water activities like fishing, kayaking, and boating. The surrounding area offers beautiful hiking trails, ideal for exploring the northern wilderness.
In winter, the lake transforms into a popular location for ice fishing and snowmobiling. So, whether you enjoy quiet moments on the shore or outdoor adventure, Great Slave Lake provides plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.
5. Wood Buffalo National Park
Well, Wood Buffalo National Park is, for sure, Canada's largest national park. It spans over 44,000 square kilometres, offering diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Visitors often spot the park’s iconic free-roaming bison. It is one of the best places to visit in Northwest Territories for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.
The park also provides great opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and camping in pristine nature. Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada's largest park, attracts wildlife enthusiasts with its roaming bison and untouched landscapes.
6. Kakisa
Kakisa is a peaceful spot, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. With its clear lake and surrounding nature, it's ideal for fishing, camping, and boating. Canada is a great country to live and work in, and Kakisa is a great example of a quiet, remote location where you can enjoy the outdoors.
The area offers incredible views and a serene environment, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to unwind in the northern wilderness.
7. Inuvik
Inuvik offers a unique experience at the edge of the Arctic. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich Indigenous culture. Inuvik will not leave you indifferent. The igloo church and the greenhouse are obligatory visits. Remember to ask in the visitor center for your certificate of having crossed the Arctic Circle.
Here are a few things you can enjoy in this wonderful area:
- Visit the Midnight Sun Festival and experience 24 hours of daylight.
- Explore the nearby Tundra and its unique wildlife.
- Take a trip on the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway, the first all-weather road to the Arctic coast.
- Discover local art and culture at the Inuvik Community Centre.
- Inuvik offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travellers interested in the far North.
8. Liard River Hot Springs
Liard River Hot Springs is a peaceful and relaxing spot that offers a natural geothermal experience. The warm waters, surrounded by dense forest, create a tranquil environment. Visitors can enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs while taking in the serene landscape.
This spot is perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking or sightseeing. It is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate, making it one of the best natural retreats in the region.
9. Fort Providence
Fort Providence is located along the Mackenzie River, offering a glimpse into the past. It is quite the perfect spot to check out for history buffs and outdoor lovers. Here is what you can do when you come to Fort Providence:
- Learn about the area's history through local museums.
- Hike nearby trails and spot local wildlife.
- Enjoy a river cruise to take in scenic views.
- Visit the local craft shops for handmade souvenirs.
- Fort Providence is a peaceful place where history meets nature in the beautiful Northwest Territories.
10. Whitehorse
Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, is an excellent base for exploring the north. Known for its stunning landscapes, it offers opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and experiencing wildlife up close. Whitehorse is one of the best locations to visit in Canada for travelers seeking adventure in a breathtaking setting. Whether you are exploring the nearby mountains or soaking in the natural hot springs, this charming town provides unforgettable experiences in the heart of the wilderness. Explore the rugged coastal landscape in Northwest Territories.
11. Aulavik
Few visit the lone Aulavik, one of the four national parks of the territory to photograph one of the largest waterfalls in the world.
12. Great Bear Lake
Great Bear Lake is situated near the Arctic Circle, and its Dease Arm — one of the five main sections of this body of water is located north of the Circle. It is the fourth largest lake in North America, the eighth largest in the world, and the biggest lake located entirely within Canada. It is also one of the deepest bodies of water on the continent, with a maximum depth of 1,463 feet - more than 100 feet deeper than Lake Superior.
Although both native American tribal peoples and later European settlers fished in the Lake, it was described as a biological desert. Only 16 species of fish are found here, a consequence of the extreme cold, the great depth, and the nutrient-poor waters from the rivers that feed into the Lake.
Nevertheless, there are three notable fishing lodges located here, and they are popular destinations for dedicated anglers.
The waters of Great Bear Lake are noted for their exceptional clarity. The surface of the Lake is frozen for 7 to 8 months of the year, with the thick ice suitable for use by ice road truckers. All in all, a place with an interesting history despite its extremely remote location.
Unforgettable Places to Explore in Northwest Territories
As you can expect, the Northwest Territories offer a unique and unforgettable experience for those who venture into its stunning wilderness. The best places to visit in Northwest Territories allow travellers to connect with nature, immerse themselves in history, and explore remote areas rarely seen by outsiders.
From spectacular national parks to pristine lakes and charming villages, these destinations provide an exceptional adventure that few places can match. So, the untouched beauty and peaceful isolation make the region a true hidden treasure for anyone craving something extraordinary and different from typical tourist spots.
