Overview

Nahanni River, Northwest Territories © Paul Gierszewski

The vast Northwest Territories of Canada cover more than 386,000 square miles (one million sq km) north of the 60th Parallel, extending far above the Arctic Circle. Inside this icy space are two out of the five largest lakes in North America: Great Bear Lake and Great Slave Lake, as well as some incredible mountain ranges and the ruggedly beautiful Nahanni National Park.

Very few people inhabit this immense territory, with the Territories' largest city being the capital of Yellowknife and its population of less than 20,000. However, there are thousands of wolves, bison, bears, and caribou on the stark arctic plains and plenty of whales visible off the coasts of the numerous islands.

This is the land of the long summer days of the Midnight Sun, and the winter phenomenon of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in the night sky between late August and January. Adventurous visitors are drawn to this land for canoeing, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing, and dog sledding, as well as for the unique natural beauty and legendary wildlife. It is a harsh region, but very rewarding for keen outdoorsmen and those wanting to experience the Arctic.

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