Visitor safety information

Park visitors must be aware of the inherent risks of traveling to and within Vuntut National Park of Canada. The geographic isolation of the park can compound the severity of any incident. Visitors must plan their trips well, be knowledgeable, experienced and self-sufficient to ensure a safe trip.

• Weather
• Wildlife
• Search and rescue
• Communication
• Topographic maps

Weather  

Climate has a dramatic effect on the degree and severity of natural hazards found within the park. The weather is variable and can change quickly. Strong winds can pick up suddenly and temperatures can rise or fall as much as 15° C. in a few hours. Snow can fall at any time of the year. Be prepared for delays due to weather and carry extra food, fuel and clothing. Know the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and be prepared to treat it.

Wildlife

Wildlife encounters have the potential of being hazardous. Visitors should be aware of and follow safe practices for traveling in bear country. They should know the proper procedures for bear encounters, food storage, camping and personal hygiene in order to minimize the likelihood of problems with bears. Parks Canada recommends carrying bear spray. Firearms are NOT permitted.

Other wildlife species that could potentially pose threats to visitors include female caribou or moose with calves, bulls in rut or muskox.

Dense concentrations of black flies and mosquitoes occur during the summer (late June-July) and may result in severe insect harassment.

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Search and rescue

Vuntut National Park of Canada is a remote wilderness park. Travellers must be entirely self-sufficient and able to handle any emergency situations on their own. Search and rescue operations are constrained by lack of park facilities, geographical location, weather conditions and small numbers of park staff. Rescue services are basic and there can be lengthy delays due to weather and the availability of both aircraft and rescue personnel. (Aircraft have to come from Inuvik or Dawson City).

Communication

Satellite telephones are the preferred form of communication. Other satellite GPS messenger devices, such as a SPOT® or inReach® are also effective.

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Topographic maps

If you are looking for an overview of Vuntut National Park, three map sheets cover the entire park at the 1:250,000 scale:

• Old Crow (116 O and 116 N)
• Davidson Mountains (117 B)
• Blow River (117 A)

For any trips involving route finding, travellers should use 1:50,000 scale topographic maps.

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