A Flightseeing Tour of Nahanni National Park: Is it Worth It?
Nahanni National Park Reserve is a remote and rugged wilderness in Canada’s Northwest Territories. The park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including deep canyons, waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks. Its remoteness makes it inaccessible by vehicle. You either have to canoe or fly in. We decided to do the flight tour. Here is all you need to know about a flightseeing tour of Nahanni National Park Reserve.
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Flightseeing Tour: Is it Worth It?
For those considering a flightseeing tour of Nahanni National Park Reserve, the question often arises: Is it worth it? The answer is a resounding yes. A flightseeing tour offers a unique perspective of the park’s vast and varied terrain, allowing you to see otherwise inaccessible areas. The aerial views of the park’s landscapes, including the famous Virginia Falls, are unparalleled.
Fly Over Nahanni National Park Reserve
A flight over Nahanni National Park Reserve provides a bird’s-eye view of its most iconic features. From the air, you’ll see the winding South Nahanni River, the deep canyons, and the stunning Virginia Falls, which is nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls. The flight also offers views of the park’s diverse ecosystems, from river valleys to rugged mountain peaks.
From Fort Simpson with Simpson Air
Your adventure begins in the quaint town of Fort Simpson, the gateway to Nahanni National Park Reserve. From here, you’ll board a flight with Simpson Air, a local airline renowned for its expert pilots and knowledgeable guides. Simpson Air offers a range of flightseeing tours, each designed to showcase the park’s most spectacular features.
What We Did: Extended Tour
We opted for an extended day tour with Simpson Air in their Cessna 185, which included three stops at some of the park’s most famous landmarks. This tour is, on average, 7-8 hours. Our tour included:
Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls)
One of the park’s most iconic features, Virginia Falls, is a must-see. At nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls, the falls are a stunning sight from the air and from the ground. The plane flies over the falls and lands a few hundred meters upriver. We then hiked to the lookout over the falls, an incredible sight.
This guided hike is mainly on a boardwalk, with the last bit on a narrow dirt path. It is easy and short, but I recommend a good pair of hiking shoes.
Glaciers and the Cirque of the Unclimbables
One of the highlights of our tour was flying over glaciers and the Cirque of the Unclimbables, a series of towering granite peaks that attract climbers from around the world. The views from the air were simply breathtaking, with the jagged mountains rising from the valley floor.
Glacier Lake
The lake is set in a remote valley and offers pristine, turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks. This is the second stop on the tour. Again, the view from the air and ground is stunning.
The famous Parks Canada red chairs are placed perfectly to enjoy the beautiful lake and the mountains in the background.
Doctor Lake
A hidden gem, Doctor Lake is known for its serene beauty and crystal-clear waters. The plane flies between a split in the mountains bordering the lake before landing on the water. The sandy beach is inviting.
Other Tours Available with Simpson Air
Simpson Air offers a variety of other flightseeing tours, each providing a unique perspective of Nahanni National Park Reserve.
You could opt for the 5-hour Virginia Falls day tour with two stops or be dropped off and make it a 10-day canoe trip as you make your way back on the water. For more information, you can inquire at SimpsonAir.ca.
Watch the video or our flight tour
To Know Before You Go
Book in Advance
Flightseeing tours are popular and can fill quickly, especially during peak season. Be sure to book your tour well in advance.
You will need to give a 50% deposit to secure your seat on the plane upon reservation.
Dress Appropriately
The weather in Nahanni National Park Reserve can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. Pack a rain jacket even on a sunny day. It is also a good idea to bring sunscreen and bug spray.
Food and drinks
Depending on the tour length you choose, pack snacks, lunch and enough water for the day.
Bring a Camera
The views in Nahanni are simply stunning. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the incredible landscapes.
What to Expect During the Tour
During your flightseeing tour, you can expect:
Expert Pilots and Guides
Simpson Air’s pilots are experienced and knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary throughout the tour. They will even take your pictures at all stops, so you don’t have to rely only on selfies to prove you were there!
Spectacular Views
From the moment you take off until you land, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the park’s most iconic features.
Comfort and Safety
The aircraft used by Simpson Air are well-maintained and comfortable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is It Worth It?
A flightseeing tour of Nahanni National Park Reserve is an experience like no other. The unique perspective of an aerial view, combined with the expertise of Simpson Air’s pilots and guides, makes this a must-do adventure for anyone visiting the Northwest Territories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, a flightseeing tour of Nahanni National Park Reserve is definitely worth it.
By taking a flightseeing tour with Simpson Air, you’ll witness the beauty of Nahanni National Park Reserve and gain a deeper appreciation for this remote and pristine wilderness. So, if you’re considering booking a tour, don’t hesitate – the experience is truly one of a kind.
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