Yellowknife is the capital city of Canada’s Northwest Territories. It lies on the north shore of Great Slave Lake, with possible views of the northern lights in fall and winter. Exhibits at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, by Frame Lake near downtown, highlight the area’s human and natural history. The Ingraham Trail, a scenic drive, crosses the Yellowknife River and heads east to lakes and trails.
August – April: Best for northern lights (aurora borealis) – one of the world's top viewing spots.
June – August: Enjoy 24-hour daylight (midnight sun), hiking, and fishing.
December – March: Perfect for dog sledding, ice road driving, and winter festivals.
By Air: Yellowknife Airport (YZF) has direct flights from Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and Ottawa.
By Road: The Mackenzie Highway (Highway 1) connects Yellowknife to Alberta, though it’s a long and remote drive.
By Bus: Limited bus services from southern Canada.
Aurora Village: One of the best places on Earth to see the northern lights.
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre: Learn about Indigenous cultures and Northern history.
Old Town Yellowknife: Explore historic buildings, houseboats, and local art shops.
Bush Pilot’s Monument: Climb for panoramic views of Great Slave Lake.
Great Slave Lake: The deepest lake in North America, ideal for fishing and boating.
Snowcastle on Great Slave Lake (March): A magical ice castle built annually for the Snowking Festival.
Cameron Falls Trail: A scenic hiking spot just outside the city.
Yellowknife Ice Road: Drive on a frozen lake in winter!
Fred Henne Territorial Park: A great summer camping and swimming spot.
Frame Lake Trail: A beautiful nature trail in the heart of the city.
Watch the Northern Lights – Best from August to April.
Go Dog Sledding – Experience a traditional northern adventure.
Take a Boat Tour on Great Slave Lake – Visit remote fishing lodges and floating cabins.
Try Ice Fishing in Winter – Catch trout and whitefish.
Visit a Traditional Indigenous Camp – Learn about Dene and Métis cultures.
Join the Snowking Winter Festival – A must-see event in March.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking in Summer – Explore Yellowknife Bay.
Attend Folk on the Rocks Festival (July) – A famous northern music festival.
Explore Hidden Lake Territorial Park – Great for hiking and canoeing.
Drive the Ingraham Trail – A scenic route leading to outdoor adventures.
Luxury: The Explorer Hotel – The best high-end option in town.
Mid-Range: Chateau Nova Yellowknife – Modern rooms and a great restaurant.
Budget: The Yellowknife Inn – Affordable with a central location.
Cabins & Lodges: Aurora Village Lodge – Best for northern lights viewing.
Camping: Fred Henne Territorial Park – Great for summer stays.
Bullock’s Bistro – Famous for fresh fish and wild game.
The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery – Great local beer and comfort food.
Zehabesha Traditional Ethiopian Restaurant – A surprising gem in the North!
Fishy People – A must-visit for fresh fish dishes.
Copperhouse Eatery & Lounge – High-quality steak and northern specialties.
Indigenous Heritage: Home to Dene, Métis, and Inuit communities with deep cultural traditions.
Gold Mining History: Yellowknife was a key site during the gold rush in the 1930s.
Northern Lifestyle: Locals embrace outdoor life, from fishing and hunting to snowmobiling.
Arts & Music Scene: The city has a growing creative scene with festivals and local artists.
Yellowknife offers an authentic northern experience, from dancing auroras in the sky to dog sledding across frozen lakes. Whether you visit in summer for the midnight sun or in winter for icy adventures, this remote yet vibrant city will leave you in awe.
4o