Yellowknife

Though technically in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is the closest major hub to central Nunavut and a gateway for northern lights viewing and Arctic exploration. Many Nunavut visitors use it as a staging point for flights into the territory.

Things to do

• Northern Lights Viewing — Watch the aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky from September to March, with Yellowknife's location at 62°N offering some of Canada's best viewing conditions.
• Yellowknife Old Town Walking Tour — Explore the historic wooden buildings, houseboats, and gold rush heritage of the original settlement on the north shore of Yellowknife Bay.
• Dettah Ice Road Drive — Drive across the frozen surface of Yellowknife Bay to the nearby settlement of Dettah during winter months, experiencing traditional Arctic travel.
• Midnight Sun Viewing — Experience continuous daylight from late May through mid-July when the sun never fully sets below the horizon.
• Yellowknife Museum — Learn about local gold mining history, Indigenous heritage, and Arctic exploration through exhibits and artifacts.
• Prelude Lake Loop Trail — Hike or snowshoe this scenic 8-kilometer loop through boreal forest with views of the lake and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Great Slave Lake Winter Activities — Fish for Arctic char and northern pike through ice holes, or explore the frozen landscape on snowmobile.

Food to try

• Arctic Char — This delicate, cold-water fish native to northern lakes is prepared fresh and is a staple of Northern cuisine found in local restaurants.
• Bison Steak — Lean and rich northern bison meat is served in steakhouses and local establishments as a signature Arctic protein.
• Whitefish — Smoked or grilled whitefish from Great Slave Lake offers a mild, flaky texture and is commonly served at casual dining spots.
• Bannock Bread — This traditional fried bread is a staple in Indigenous and Northern cuisine, often served with butter, jam, or as a side to meals.
• Musk Ox and Caribou — Game meats from the surrounding tundra appear on menus at upscale restaurants and provide authentic Arctic dining experiences.
• Northern Berries and Cloudberries — Local wild berries including cloudberries, blueberries, and cranberries appear in desserts and preserves during summer months.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace Extreme Weather Preparedness — Winter temperatures drop below -30°C, so proper insulated clothing, layers, and respect for weather warnings are essential for safety and comfort.
• Respect Indigenous Heritage — Yellowknife is traditional Dene and Métis land; be respectful of cultural sites, avoid taking photos without permission, and support Indigenous-owned businesses.
• Adjust to Seasonal Light Extremes — During winter darkness (November-January) and summer midnight sun, your body's circadian rhythm will be affected, so plan activities and sleep accordingly.
• Book Accommodations and Tours in Advance — Aurora season and summer months fill quickly; reserve lodging and guided experiences months ahead to ensure availability, especially for northern lights tours.