Old Crow

The northernmost community in Yukon, accessible only by air, offering a glimpse into arctic Gwich'in culture and pristine northern wilderness. It's an extraordinary destination for adventurous travelers seeking remote authenticity.

Things to do

• Porcupine River Paddling — Canoe or kayak the pristine Porcupine River to experience vast Arctic wilderness, wildlife viewing, and traditional travel routes used by Gwich'in for generations.
• Arctic Wildlife Viewing — Observe caribou migrations, musk oxen, moose, and Arctic birds in their natural habitat during peak seasons, often guided by local hunters with deep knowledge of animal patterns.
• Rampart House Historic Site — Visit the ruins of this 19th-century Hudson's Bay Company trading post downriver, a significant site in fur trade history and Gwich'in cultural heritage.
• Northern Lights Viewing — Experience the Aurora Borealis from September through March in one of Canada's premier aurora viewing locations with minimal light pollution and extended darkness.
• Gwich'in Cultural Tours — Join local guides for immersive experiences learning about traditional hunting, trapping, dog sledding, and Gwich'in language and customs from community elders.
• Winter Dog Sledding — Experience traditional Arctic dog sledding across frozen landscapes, a quintessential northern skill still practiced by Old Crow residents for transportation and recreation.

Food to try

• Moose Stew — A hearty traditional dish made with locally harvested moose meat, root vegetables, and wild herbs, representing the backbone of Gwich'in subsistence diet.
• Arctic Char — Freshly caught from local rivers and lakes, this cold-water fish is prepared grilled, smoked, or in traditional stews and is highly prized for its delicate flavor.
• Caribou Meat and Traditional Preparations — Harvested during seasonal hunts, caribou is prepared in various traditional ways including dried meat (dried meat strips), stews, and roasted preparations central to Gwich'in cuisine.
• Wild Berries and Bush Tea — Local lingonberries, blueberries, and cloudberries are foraged seasonally and served fresh or preserved, often accompanied by traditional spruce tip or Labrador tea.
• Fish Soup with Traditional Root Vegetables — A warming soup made from local whitefish, pike, or Arctic char combined with wild roots and greens foraged from the surrounding tundra.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Hunting and Trapping Practices — The community's economy and culture center on seasonal hunting and trapping; visitors should show respect for these practices and avoid interfering with active hunting or trap lines.
• Learn Basic Gwich'in Greetings — While English is spoken, learning simple Gwich'in phrases like 'Mahsi' (thank you) demonstrates respect for the indigenous language and culture that defines the community.
• Embrace Self-Sufficiency and Flexibility — Old Crow operates on Arctic time with limited services and weather-dependent schedules; visitors should arrive with patience, adaptability, and appreciation for the remote lifestyle.
• Support Local Indigenous Businesses — Prioritize purchasing from Gwich'in-owned establishments, artisans, and guides to directly support the community's economic well-being and cultural preservation.