Self-Sufficiency
The park has no infrastructure; visitors must be fully equipped for self-reliant wilderness travel and emergency situations.
Aulavik National Park
CA
National Park·Remote, Pristine, Vast, Untouched
Aulavik National Park is a sprawling, remote wilderness situated on the northern end of Banks Island in the Northwest Territories. As an Arctic sanctuary, it offers a rare glimpse into a pristine, high-latitude ecosystem characterized by rolling tundra, deep river valleys, and a coastline that meets the Beaufort Sea. The park is perhaps best known for its significant population of muskoxen and its status as a critical habitat for migratory birds. Because of its extreme isolation and lack of established infrastructure, it is a destination reserved for self-sufficient travelers and experienced backcountry explorers. Visitors can traverse the landscape via the Thomsen River, which provides a unique corridor for paddling and hiking through one of the most northerly navigable river systems on the planet.
Aulavik National Park is a sprawling, remote wilderness situated on the northern end of Banks Island in the Northwest Territories. As an Arctic sanctuary, it offers a rare glimpse into a pristine, high-latitude ecosystem characterized by rolling tundra, deep river valleys, and a coastline that meets the Beaufort Sea. The park is perhaps best known for its significant population of muskoxen and its status as a critical habitat for migratory birds. Because of its extreme isolation and lack of established infrastructure, it is a destination reserved for self-sufficient travelers and experienced backcountry explorers. Visitors can traverse the landscape via the Thomsen River, which provides a unique corridor for paddling and hiking through one of the most northerly navigable river systems on the planet.
You might want to ask
Highlights
One of the world's highest concentrations of muskoxen.
Navigable paddling routes along the Thomsen River.
Pristine Arctic tundra and Beaufort Sea coastline.
Critical habitat for diverse migratory bird species.
Before you go: Aulavik National Park essentials
Extreme isolation with no cell service or established facilities.
Strictly for experienced backcountry travelers with navigation skills.
Weather conditions in the Arctic can change rapidly and be severe even in summer.
Logistics
Access to Banks Island is extremely limited and requires specialized charter flights from communities like Sachs Harbour.
Best For
Experienced backcountry explorers and Arctic wildlife enthusiasts.
Currency
CAD $
Average Cost
$500-$1000+ p/day (due to charter flight requirements)
Languages Spoken
English
Wildlife Safety
Maintain a respectful distance from muskoxen and other Arctic wildlife; always follow park guidelines for bear safety in the North.
Occasion Tags
Adventure, Nature Lovers, Wildlife Enthusiasts
Add dates for experiences
Location
Northwest Territories, Canada