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Activities & Experiences

Activities & Experiences

Northwest Territories, Canada

Outdoor Adventures

Yellowknife is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities that connect one with the Northern landscape.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Frame Lake Trail

An easy, paved, 7 km loop around Frame Lake, suitable for all fitness levels. Offers accessible urban nature with boardwalks and interpretive signs. Popular for strolls, jogs, or bike rides in summer.

Prosperous Lake Trails

Located a short drive from Yellowknife, this network of trails offers more rugged terrain and a greater wilderness feel. Trails vary from easy walks to moderate hikes, good for immersion in the boreal forest.

Cameron River Falls Trail

A moderate hike located approx. An hour's drive from Yellowknife on the Ingraham Trail. The trail to the falls is relatively short but includes some rocky terrain. The reward is a beautiful waterfall and a scenic viewpoint.

Water Sports & Activities Summer

  • Paddling: Kayaking, canoeing, and Stand-up paddleboarding are popular on Frame Lake, Long Lake, or Great Slave Lake. Local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours.
  • Boating/Cruises: Scenic boat tours on Great Slave Lake offer different perspectives of Yellowknife, including views of the Old Town houseboat community, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Some tours also combine sightseeing with fishing.
  • Fishing: Great Slave Lake is renowned for its world-class fishing, especially for Arctic char, whitefish, and lake trout. Guided fishing tours are highly recommended, as local guides know the best spots and provide all necessary gear.
  • GetYourGuide: Explore and book a variety of outdoor activities and tours in Yellowknife for convenience.

Dog Sledding Winter

  • A quintessential Northern experience.
  • Guided tours range from short, exhilarating rides to multi-day expeditions.
  • Learn to mush your own team, connecting deeply with the dogs and environment.
  • Book Dog Sledding

Snowmobiling Winter

  • Guided tours across vast frozen lakes and along groomed trails.
  • A fast-paced way to explore the winter landscape.
  • Tours range from short introductory rides to longer, more adventurous trips.
  • Book Snowmobiling

Ice Fishing Winter

  • A unique Northern activity where you fish through a hole in the thick ice.
  • Many tours include heated shacks, gear, and the chance to cook your catch.
  • A relaxing yet rewarding experience.
  • Book Ice Fishing

Important Safety Considerations

Always check ice conditions and weather before venturing onto frozen lakes. Do not approach bison or other wild animals; maintain a safe distance. Layered clothing is useful for Northern weather, especially in winter. Always follow local guidance and tour operator instructions.

Cultural Immersion

Yellowknife provides opportunities for cultural exchange and connection with local traditions.

Workshops & Cultural Performances

  • Local Art Workshops: Some Old Town studios, like Old Town Glassworks, offer workshops in glass blowing, jewelry making, or other crafts. These provide a hands-on experience and a chance to learn from local artists. Check their schedules for availability.
  • Cultural Performances and Traditional Ceremonies: Dettah, the nearby Dene community, sometimes hosts cultural demonstrations or events. Access is often via the seasonal ice road in winter or by boat/floatplane in summer.
  • Community-Based Tourism Initiatives: These may include storytelling, traditional food tastings, wilderness survival skills, and insights into Dene traditions and their deep connection to the land. Inquire with local tourism operators.
  • Language Learning Opportunities: No formal language learning opportunities exist for tourists. English is widely spoken in Yellowknife.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Snow King Festival March

Held in a giant snow castle built on the frozen Great Slave Lake. This unique festival features ice sculptures, cultural performances, live music, and family activities. It is a highlight of the winter season.

Folk on the Rocks July

An outdoor music festival held on the shores of Long Lake, featuring Canadian and international artists across various genres. It draws a large crowd and creates a lively atmosphere.

Long John Jamboree March

Another winter festival offering outdoor activities, snowmobile races, cultural events, and family fun on the frozen lake, providing festive entertainment.

Relaxation & Wellness

Yellowknife features opportunities for relaxation and personal well-being.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Yellowknife's nightlife focuses on local pubs and community events.

Shopping & Markets

Opportunities for local crafts, Northern apparel, and souvenirs.

Relaxation & Wellness

While Yellowknife is known for adventure, opportunities for relaxation and personal well-being exist.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Yellowknife has limited high-end spa facilities comparable to larger cities.
  • Some hotels may offer basic fitness centers or small pools.
  • Yellowknife Multiplex facility offers an indoor public pool, fitness facilities, and various recreational programs.
  • No hot springs are in the immediate Yellowknife area. The focus here is on connecting with nature directly.

Yoga & Meditation / Traditional Healing

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Limited formal options within Yellowknife for dedicated retreats. Some local studios may offer drop-in yoga classes.

Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional healing practices are part of the local community's wellness approach. These are not typically tourist offerings.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Long Lake Beach (Fred Henne Territorial Park): A popular sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation in summer. It offers picnic areas and a playground.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

The Black Knight Pub often features local musicians. NWT Brewing Co. Hosts live music and themed nights.

Theater & Performance Spaces

Northern Arts and Cultural Centre (NACC): The main venue for plays, concerts, dance performances, and touring acts. Check their schedule.

Nightclubs & Late-Night

Yellowknife has limited dedicated nightclubs. Some pubs may have DJ nights or live bands. Nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities.

Shopping & Markets

Yellowknife offers shopping opportunities for local crafts, Northern apparel, and souvenirs, giving you a piece of the North to take home.

Traditional Markets & Artisan Workshops

  • Yellowknife Farmers Market (Summer): Operates weekly during the warmer months (typically Tuesday evenings). It offers local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts from various vendors. A good place to experience local community life and pick up unique items.
  • Artisan Workshops & Crafts: Old Town is home to several artisan studios and galleries selling local art, jewelry, and crafts. Old Town Glassworks, for example, features beautiful glass art. Many artists work out of their homes or small shops, offering unique creations.
  • Weaver & Devore Trading Ltd.: A historic general store that also sells Northern clothing and crafts, providing an opportunity to purchase authentic Northern pieces.
  • This supports fair trade and cultural preservation.

Souvenir Recommendations

Northern-Themed Apparel

T-shirts, hoodies, and hats with local motifs or "NWT" branding make for practical souvenirs.

Buffalo/Bison Products

Consider leather goods or, if allowed for transport, specialty meat products.

Aurora-Themed Items & Diamonds

Postcards, prints, small crafts depicting the Northern Lights. Yellowknife is a diamond mining center; local jewelers may offer Northern diamonds.

Global Booking Platforms

Find and book a wide range of activities and experiences in Yellowknife for a seamless trip. Visit GetYourGuide

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping: Canada Post offices are available in Yellowknife for sending postcards or packages home.
  • Customs: Be aware of customs regulations for your home country regarding the import of certain goods, especially animal products or alcohol. Declare all items as required.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Limited luxury and boutique shopping options.
  • Yellowknife focuses on practical necessities, outdoor gear, and local crafts rather than high-end fashion.

Entertainment & Nightlife Overview

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls
  • The downtown area has a few pubs and bars within walking distance, making a small pub crawl possible.
  • The Black Knight Pub and NWT Brewing Co. Are popular choices for evening gatherings.
  • Yellowknife's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities. Pubs and restaurants typically close by late evening or midnight.
Late-Night Entertainment
  • Yellowknife has limited dedicated nightclubs. Some pubs may have DJ nights or live bands that encourage dancing.
  • Aurora Viewing Tours: In winter, these are the main late-night activity. Tours run late into the night (often until 1 AM or 2 AM), providing an unique form of "nightlife."
  • Consider booking an aurora tour for a memorable evening experience.

Traveler's Tip

For unique souvenirs, explore the small, independent art studios in Old Town. One may find an one-of-a-kind piece and meet the artist, supporting local creators.

Activity Planning Summary

Seasonal Activities

  • Winter: Aurora viewing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, fat biking, Snow King Festival.
  • Summer: Hiking, paddling, boating, fishing, Yellowknife Farmers Market, Folk on the Rocks.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Offer a mix of changing outdoor opportunities and fewer crowds.
  • Plan activities based on your visit season for optimal experience.

Cultural & Wellness Activities

  • Cultural Immersion: Local art workshops, Dene community events (Dettah), community-based tourism.
  • Relaxation & Wellness: Limited high-end spas; focus on connecting with nature. Yellowknife Multiplex has pools/fitness.
  • Entertainment: Local pubs with live music (Black Knight Pub, NWT Brewing Co.), Northern Arts and Cultural Centre for performances.
  • Shopping: Yellowknife Farmers Market, Old Town art studios for local crafts and souvenirs.