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Hiking Trails in Northern Canada (Land of the Midnight Sun)
There are numerous hiking trails in Northern Canada within the National Parks. In our comprehensive guide, we have selected three trails from each National Park – easy, medium, and difficult. We have categorized them by Territory and the National Park they belong to.
There are so many hiking trails within each of the Canadian National Parks. We have selected trails for all fitness levels.
Northwest Territories
Exploring the Untamed Wilderness: Hiking Trails in Northwest Territories’ National Parks
Northwest Territories, a land of vast wilderness and pristine landscapes, is home to some of Canada’s most remote and awe-inspiring national parks. From the rugged canyons of Nahanni to the Arctic tundra of Tuktut Nogait, these parks offer a range of hiking trails that promise unforgettable adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s embark on a journey through Northwest Territories’ national parks and discover the breathtaking beauty of their hiking trails.
Nahanni National Park Reserve
Virginia Falls Trail: Easy
Begin your exploration of Nahanni National Park Reserve with a visit to one of Canada’s most iconic waterfalls. The Virginia Falls Trail offers an easy hike to the base of the majestic falls, where you can marvel at the sheer power and beauty of the cascading waters plunging into the Nahanni River below. Approximately 4 km (round trip)
Sunblood Mountain Trail: Medium
Ascend to new heights on the Sunblood Mountain Trail, is a moderate hike that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. Trek through alpine meadows and rocky slopes to reach the summit, where sweeping vistas of the Nahanni River Valley and the Ragged Range await. Approximately 12 km (round trip)
Cirque of the Unclimbables Trail: Difficult
For experienced hikers seeking a true wilderness adventure, the Cirque of the Unclimbables Trail offers a challenging trek to one of the park’s most iconic rock formations. Navigate rugged terrain and steep ascents to reach this remote cirque, where towering granite walls and breathtaking scenery await amidst the untamed beauty of Nahanni. The trail is approximately 100 km in length. This hike is typically part of a multi-day climbing expedition, so specific distances may vary depending on the route.
Tuktut Nogait National Park
Bluenose Lake Trail: Easy
Discover the pristine wilderness of the Arctic tundra on the Bluenose Lake Trail, an easy hike that meanders through vast expanses of tundra and along scenic lakeshores. Enjoy peaceful moments of reflection amidst the park’s rugged beauty, where the silence is broken only by the call of birds and the rustle of the wind. Approximately 5 km (round trip)
Hornaday River Trail: Medium
Follow the meandering course of the Hornaday River on this moderate hike through Tuktut Nogait National Park. Trek through boreal forests and across open plains as you explore this remote wilderness area, where opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching abound amidst the pristine landscapes. Approximately 20 km (one way)
Brock River Canyon Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Brock River Canyon, a challenging trail that leads to one of the park’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Descend into the depths of the canyon, where sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape unlike any other. Approximately 30 km (one way)
Naats’ihch’oh National Park Reserve
Arctic Circle Trail: Easy
Begin your journey through Naats’ihch’oh National Park Reserve with a leisurely hike along the Arctic Circle Trail. This easy route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic photography amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. Approximately 2 km (round trip)
Windy Pass Trail: Medium
Discover the rugged beauty of Naats’ihch’oh on the Windy Pass Trail, a moderate hike that traverses alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach a scenic mountain pass. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as you explore this remote and untamed wilderness area. Approximately 10 km (round trip)
Divide Lake Trail: Difficult
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Divide Lake Trail offers a rugged trek through some of the park’s most rugged and remote terrain. Navigate steep ascents and rocky ridges as you journey to this pristine alpine lake, where solitude and serenity await amidst the wild beauty of Naats’ihch’oh. Approximately 15 km (round trip)
Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve
East Arm Trail: Easy
Explore the stunning landscapes of Thaidene Nëné on the East Arm Trail, an easy hike that offers panoramic views of Great Slave Lake and the surrounding wilderness. Wander along sandy beaches and rocky shorelines as you discover this remote park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Approximately 5 km (round trip)
North Arm Trail: Medium
Discover the hidden gems of Thaidene Nëné on the North Arm Trail, a moderate hike that leads to secluded bays and pristine forests. Trek through rugged terrain and along scenic lakeshores as you explore this remote wilderness area, where the spirit of the land is alive and thriving. Approximately 15 km (round trip)
Hornby Creek Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Hornby Creek Trail, a difficult route that leads to one of the park’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Follow meandering streams and rocky pathways as you journey to this remote and pristine destination, where the beauty of nature unfolds in every direction. Approximately 20 km (round trip)
Nááts’ihch’oh National Park Reserve
Nahanni Butte Trail: Easy
Begin your exploration of Nááts’ihch’oh National Park Reserve with a leisurely hike along the Nahanni Butte Trail. This easy route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic photography amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. Approximately 2 km (round trip)
Broken Skull Trail: Medium
Discover the rugged beauty of Nááts’ihch’oh on the Broken Skull Trail, a moderate hike that traverses alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach a scenic mountain pass. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as you explore this remote and untamed wilderness area. Approximately 10 km (round trip)
Ragged Range Trail: Difficult
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Ragged Range Trail offers a rugged trek through some of the park’s most remote and rugged terrain. Navigate steep ascents and rocky ridges as you journey to this pristine alpine lake, where solitude and serenity await amidst the wild beauty of Nááts’ihch’oh. Approximately 20 km (round trip)
Nunavut, Canada’s northernmost territory, is a land of rugged beauty and pristine wilderness. Home to several national parks, Nunavut offers adventurers the opportunity to explore some of Canada’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. From towering mountains to icy fjords, these parks boast various hiking trails suitable for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s embark on a journey through Nunavut’s national parks and discover the awe-inspiring beauty of their hiking trails.
Auyuittuq National Park
Akshayuk Pass Trail: Easy
Begin your adventure in Auyuittuq National Park by hiking along the Akshayuk Pass Trail. This easy route offers stunning views of towering peaks, glaciers, and icy rivers. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Inuit hunters as you traverse the Arctic landscape, where the raw beauty of the land is on full display. Approximately 10 km (one way)
Summit Lake Trail: Medium
Ascend to new heights on the Summit Lake Trail, a moderate hike that leads to a pristine alpine lake nestled amidst the rugged mountains of Auyuittuq. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you journey to this scenic destination, where tranquility and serenity await amidst the wild beauty of the Arctic. Approximately 4 km (round trip)
Mount Thor Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek to the legendary Mount Thor, the world’s tallest vertical cliff. This difficult trail leads through rugged terrain and steep ascents to reach the base of this iconic peak, where you can marvel at its sheer granite walls and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail to Mount Thor is typically part of a mountaineering expedition rather than a hiking trail, and specific distances may vary depending on the route taken.
Qausuittuq National Park
Resolute Passage Trail: Easy
Explore the coastal beauty of Qausuittuq National Park on the Resolute Passage Trail, an easy hike that follows the shores of the Arctic Ocean. Wander along sandy beaches and rocky cliffs as you discover the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of this remote wilderness area. Approximately 5 km (one way)
Tanquary Fiord Trail: Medium
Discover the stunning fjords of Qausuittuq on the Tanquary Fiord Trail, a moderate hike that offers panoramic views of towering cliffs and icy waters. Trek through tundra and rocky slopes as you explore this pristine landscape, where solitude and serenity await amidst the untamed beauty of the Arctic. Approximately 10 km (one way)
Craig Harbour Trail: Difficult
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Craig Harbour Trail offers a rugged trek through some of the park’s most remote and rugged terrain. Navigate steep ascents and rocky ridges as you journey to this secluded harbor, where the spirit of the Arctic comes alive amidst the wild beauty of Qausuittuq. Approximately 15 km (one way)
Quttinirpaaq National Park
Lake Hazen Trail: Easy
Begin your exploration of Quttinirpaaq National Park with a leisurely hike along the Lake Hazen Trail. This easy route offers stunning views of the park’s pristine wilderness, where rugged mountains and icy fjords stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore the shores of Lake Hazen, one of the largest lakes in the Arctic, and discover the unique flora and fauna that call this remote landscape home. Approximately 5 km (round trip)
Grise Fiord Trail: Medium
Discover the remote beauty of Grise Fiord on this moderate hike through Quttinirpaaq National Park. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you explore this remote wilderness area, where towering mountains and icy waters create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape unlike any other. Approximately 20 km (one way)
Tanquary Fiord Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Tanquary Fiord Trail, a challenging route that leads to some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Navigate steep ascents and rocky slopes as you journey to this secluded fjord, where solitude and serenity await amidst the untamed beauty of Quttinirpaaq. Approximately 10 km (one way)
Sirmilik National Park
Arctic Bay Trail: Easy
Begin your journey through Sirmilik National Park with a leisurely hike along the Arctic Bay Trail. This easy route offers stunning views of the park’s rugged coastline and icy waters, where towering cliffs and rocky shores create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Explore the shores of Arctic Bay and discover the rich biodiversity of this remote wilderness area. Approximately 3 km (round trip)
Qaqqaliaq Trail: Medium
Discover the beauty of Qaqqaliaq on this moderate hike through Sirmilik National Park. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you explore this remote wilderness area, where towering mountains and icy waters create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape unlike any other. Approximately 10 km (one way)
Borden Peninsula Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Borden Peninsula Trail, a difficult route that leads to some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Navigate steep ascents and rocky slopes as you journey to this secluded peninsula, where solitude and serenity await amidst the untamed beauty of Sirmilik. Approximately 40 km (one way)
Ukkusiksalik National Park
Wager Bay Trail: Easy
Begin your exploration of Ukkusiksalik National Park with a leisurely hike along the Wager Bay Trail. This easy route offers stunning views of the park’s pristine wilderness, where rugged mountains and icy waters stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore the shores of Wager Bay and discover the unique flora and fauna that call this remote landscape home. Approximately 5 km (round trip)
Gull Glacier Trail: Medium
Discover the remote beauty of Gull Glacier on this moderate hike through Ukkusiksalik National Park. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you explore this remote wilderness area, where towering mountains and icy waters create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape unlike any other. Approximately 10 km (round trip)
Anialikuluk Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Anialikuluk Trail, a difficult route that leads to some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Navigate steep ascents and rocky slopes as you journey to this secluded fjord, where solitude and serenity await amidst the untamed beauty of Ukkusiksalik. Approximately 20 km (round trip)
Yukon
Exploring the Yukon’s National Park Hiking Trails: From Arctic Tundra to Glacial Peaks
The Yukon, a land of vast wilderness and towering mountains, is home to some of Canada’s most spectacular national parks. From the rugged beauty of Ivvavik to the majestic peaks of Kluane, these parks offer adventurers the opportunity to explore some of the most pristine landscapes in the world. With a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast to discover. Let’s embark on a journey through the Yukon’s national parks and uncover the breathtaking beauty of their hiking trails.
Ivvavik National Park
Sheep Creek Trail: Easy
Begin your adventure in Ivvavik National Park with a leisurely hike along the Sheep Creek Trail. This easy route follows the tranquil waters of Sheep Creek, offering stunning views of the surrounding Arctic tundra and rolling hills. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including Dall sheep and grizzly bears, as you explore this remote and pristine wilderness area. Approximately 2 km (round trip)
Firth River Trail: Medium
Discover the rugged beauty of the Firth River Valley on this moderate hike through Ivvavik National Park. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you follow the meandering course of the river, where towering cliffs and ancient glaciers create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape unlike any other. Approximately 5 km (round trip)
Sheep Creek to Sheep Camp Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek to Sheep Camp, a remote backcountry campground nestled amidst the mountains of Ivvavik National Park. This difficult trail leads through rugged terrain and steep ascents, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s a hike that promises adventure and excitement at every turn. Approximately 15 km (one way)
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Cottonwood Trail: Easy
Begin your exploration of Kluane National Park with a leisurely hike along the Cottonwood Trail. This easy route meanders through dense forests and scenic rivers, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. Approximately 1 km loop
King’s Throne Trail: Medium
Ascend to new heights on the King’s Throne Trail, a moderate hike that leads to breathtaking panoramic views of Kluane National Park. Trek through alpine meadows and rocky slopes to reach the summit, where sweeping vistas of towering peaks and glacial valleys await. Approximately 6 km (round trip)
Donjek Glacier Trail: Difficult
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Donjek Glacier Trail offers a rugged trek through some of the park’s most remote and untamed terrain. Navigate rocky moraines and icy streams as you journey to the foot of the glacier, where the beauty of the Arctic landscape is on full display. Approximately 18 km (round trip)
Qikiqtaruk – Herschel Island Territorial Park
Simpson Point Trail: Easy
Explore the coastal beauty of Qikiqtaruk on the Simpson Point Trail, an easy hike that offers stunning views of the Arctic Ocean and surrounding islands. Wander along sandy beaches and rocky cliffs as you discover the rich history and unique ecology of this remote island park. Approximately 3 km (round trip)
Muskox Ridge Trail: Medium
Discover the rugged beauty of Muskox Ridge on this moderate hike through Qikiqtaruk. Trek through tundra and rocky terrain as you explore this remote wilderness area, where opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching abound amidst the pristine landscapes. Approximately 8 km (round trip)
Ice Mountain Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek to Ice Mountain, the highest point on Qikiqtaruk. This difficult trail leads through rugged terrain and steep ascents, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding Arctic landscape. It’s a hike that promises adventure and excitement amidst the wild beauty of Qikiqtaruk. Approximately 10 km (round trip)
Vuntut National Park
Snake River Trail: Easy
Begin your journey through Vuntut National Park with a leisurely hike along the Snake River Trail. This easy route follows the river’s meandering course, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. Approximately 5 km (one way)
Hess River Trail: Medium
Discover the remote beauty of the Hess River Valley on this moderate hike through Vuntut National Park. Trek through forests and along riverbanks as you explore this pristine wilderness area, where solitude and serenity await amidst the untamed beauty of the Yukon. Approximately 20 km (one way)
Hart River Trail: Difficult
Challenge yourself with a trek through the rugged terrain of the Hart River Valley, a difficult route that leads to some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Navigate rocky slopes and river crossings as you journey deeper into the heart of Vuntut, where the beauty of nature unfolds in every direction. Approximately 50 km (one way)
Conclusion
The National Parks of Northern Canada offer a wealth of hiking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re exploring any of the Northern Territories, these trails promise unforgettable experiences and opportunities for adventure. So lace up your boots, pack your gear, and embark on a journey through some of the National Park’s most spectacular landscapes. Happy hiking!
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