Northwest Territories tourist attractions and Trip Itinerary
We spent the summer discovering Canada’s North and adventuring all that the Northwest Territories had to offer. This Northwest Territories trip itinerary includes all the must-sees and must-dos to experience this northern territory’s history, culture, landscape, and wildlife. This guide will be undeniably helpful in planning an unforgettable adventure with all the Northwest Territories tourist attractions and most of the best-kept local gems.
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Why Visit the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories (NWT) is a vast and remote region of Canada that offers natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and the possibility of wildlife encounters. This territory is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, from the majestic waterfalls and expansive boreal forests to the stunning auroras that dance across the night sky.
With a mix of Indigenous cultures, historic sites, and pristine landscapes, visiting the Northwest Territories is an opportunity to explore a part of Canada that remains largely untouched by modern development.
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How to Get There?
- Driving from Alberta: The most common route from Alberta is via Highway 35, which becomes Highway 1 as you cross into the NWT. The roads are generally well-maintained but be prepared for long stretches between services. It’s essential to fuel up and check your vehicle before setting out.
- Driving from British Columbia: The drive from British Columbia is more rugged, involving travel along the Liard Highway. This route offers stunning scenery but also presents challenges like wildlife encounters and rougher road conditions.
- Flying: For those short on time or looking for a more convenient option, flights to Yellowknife, the capital of NWT, are available from several major Canadian cities. Once in Yellowknife, you can rent a vehicle to explore the surrounding areas or join guided tours.
How Many Days Do I Need to Visit the Northwest Territories?
Like ours, a 12-day road trip is ideal for experiencing the best of what NWT has to offer. This duration allows for a balance of driving, sightseeing, and relaxation. However, depending on your interests and pace, you could extend your stay to explore more remote areas or shorten it if you focus on specific attractions.
Trip Itinerary including Northwest Territories Tourist Attractions
Stop 1 – 60th Parallel Visitor Centre
This is a great place to start your journey. It offers a wealth of information about the region and the chance to grab your certificate for crossing into Canada’s North. The exhibits provide an excellent introduction to the wildlife and history of the NWT, setting the stage for your adventure.
The staff gave us some pointers about our planned itinerary. We also picked up a map of the territory, which was very helpful for the next few days.
Of course, a selfie with the huge welcome sign is also a must!
Stop 2 – Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park
Located approximately 80 kilometres from the Visitor Centre, Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park is a must-see. With its impressive height and width, Alexandra Falls is a highlight, and the trail to the rocky riverbed offers a closer look at the falls.
Louise Falls, while smaller, is equally stunning and offers beautiful viewpoints. Both falls are accessible via well-maintained trails, making this an excellent easy day hike. The territorial park has two campgrounds for those looking for a place to spend the night: Louise Falls Campground and Escarpment Creek Group Campground.
The park is near Enterprise, a tiny community that was the victim of the 2023 wildfire season. The residents were evacuated with little notice, and some lost everything they had left behind. In 2024, driving through this small town, the remnants of burned houses could still be viewed, as only the foundations and burnt ruins remained.
We had the opportunity to talk with a local who told us her story of the events, which was very sobering and humbling. As she said, nothing in her house was worth her or her husband’s lives. After hearing her story, we drove through hundreds of kilometres of burntwood forest. We saw it all through different eyes.
Stop 3 – Hay River
We stopped in Hay River for our first night on our road trip in Northwest Territories. This small city has all the amenities you might need: a service station, water, groceries and a hardware store. The town’s Visitor Centre is a great resource for learning about local culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Hay River Heritage Centre, which showcases artifacts from the area’s rich history.
We spent some time at the beach on the shore of Great Slave Lake. The sand and blue water are perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
#vanlife: We spent the night in the beach's parking lot and filled-up on potable water at the Visitor Centre in town.
Stop 4 – Wood Buffalo National Park
This is an out-of-the-way park from Hay River, but as we pursue all national parks on our road trips, we drove the 3 hours from Hay River to Wood Buffalo National Park.
Unfortunately, the park suffered major loss and damage from the 2023 wildfires, and most trails and day-use areas were closed. We stopped at the Pine Lake Day Use Area, which was open. It looked unmaintained and in poor condition.
Before heading out for this part of the trip, I strongly recommend you inquire about the park’s state. Make sure the Salt Plains area is open, as it is, in my opinion, the only region of the park worth the drive. It is a surreal landscape of salt flats and mineral springs.
We also made a pit stop in Fort Smith, where the Visitor Centre of Wood Buffalo National Park is located. The small town is set on the banks of Slave River and offers a beautiful riverfront view.
Stop 5 – McNallie Creek Falls
A brief stop at McNallie Creek Falls is a great way to break up the drive between Hay River and Kakisa. The falls are picturesque and easily accessible, making them perfect for a quick photo or picnic.
Stop 6 – Kakisa
Kakisa is a must on your Northwest Territories road trip itinerary. Evelyn Falls is the star attraction in Kakisa, and the trail leading down to the base of the falls offers a scenic experience. The steep descent is manageable with the help of cables, but suitable footwear is essential. After your hike, explore the small, peaceful community of Kakisa, which offers a glimpse into the local way of life.
Stop 7 – Whati
This stretch of the road from Kakasi to the turn-off for Whati passes through the MacKenzie Bison Sanctuary. Be alert and ready to stop, as you will surely encounter herds of bison grazing on the side of the highway.
Whati, now accessible year-round, offers excellent fishing opportunities and the chance to see the impressive Whati Falls. The community is welcoming, and visitors can learn about the traditional way of life in this remote part of Canada.
Stop 8 – Yellowknife and Dettah
We spent three days in Yellowknife, and there was plenty to do. Most restaurants and attractions are closed on Sundays and Mondays, but if you can make it here any other day, you won’t be at a loss for things to do. We loved our stay.
#vanlife: The Old Town parking lot allows overnight stays for up to 48 hours. We took adventage of it and spent two nights right by most of the attractions.
We hiked to a beautiful waterfall, biked around the city, visited museums, and ate great meals while enjoying local beer.
Dettah, a nearby Indigenous community, offers a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.
Stop 9 – Fort Providence
Again, you will pass through the MacKenzie Bison Sanctuary from Yellowknife to Fort Providence. Be alert and prepared to stop at the sight of bison.
Fort Providence is another great stop to see bison up close, especially around the Mackenzie River area. The community is known for its stunning river views and the Children’s Monument, a tribute to the victims of residential schools.
Stop 10 – Sambaa Deh Falls Territorial Park
Sambaa Deh Falls is a hidden gem offering stunning views. The campground is well-maintained and provides a peaceful setting for an overnight stay. The short hike under the bridge offers unique perspectives of the falls, and the friendly staff is always willing to share tips on the best spots to visit.
Stop 11 – Fort Simpson
Fort Simpson is a gateway to Nahanni National Park Reserve, and a stop at the Visitor Centre is a must. The town’s self-guided historical tour is a great way to learn about its past, and the scenic river views are not to be missed.
For an unforgettable experience, consider a flightseeing tour of Nahanni National Park Reserve. This tour was the highlight of our trip and offered breathtaking views of Virginia Falls, canyons, and the rugged landscape.
Stop 12 – Blackstone Territorial Park
This unplanned stop was a happy surprise during our road trip to Northwest Territories. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful setting by the river. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic or overnight camping, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
From Blackstone Territorial Park to the B.C. Border
As you approach the border, the landscape begins to change, offering glimpses of the rugged terrain that awaits in British Columbia. The drive is scenic and perfect for ending your journey through the Northwest Territories.
Watch our Northwest Territories Road Trip Highlights video
Important Information
- Road Information: Before setting out, check road conditions, closures, and construction updates at https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways.
- Wildfire Information: Be aware of current wildfire conditions, which can affect travel plans. Visit the NWT Wildfire website for up-to-date information.
- Campgrounds and Territorial Parks: Although reservations are recommended for campgrounds, especially during peak season, we never had problems finding a site in the campgrounds along our route. Check the NWT Parks website for availability and park information.
- Possible Wildlife Encounters: The NWT is home to various wildlife, including bison, bears, foxes, wolves, caribou, deer, and moose. Always practice safe wildlife viewing by keeping a safe distance and never feeding animals.
Northwest Territories Trip Itinerary Map
This detailed itinerary provides travellers with a comprehensive guide to exploring the Northwest Territories’ tourist attractions. With proper planning and an adventurous spirit, this road trip will be an unforgettable experience.
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