Journey to Arctic

Locations:Tombstone Territorial Park, Eagle Plains, Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk and Pingo Canadian Landmark
Distance: 1 300 km roundtrip from Dawson City, YT to Tuktoyaktuk, NT

This 7 to 10-day itinerary will take you beyond the Arctic Circle for a unique immersion in the Far North.

Stop 1

Location: Tombstone Territorial Park, YT

Make your way to the famed Dempster Highway, where your journey starts. Commemorate this adventure with a roadside selfie and enjoy the journey to Tombstone Territorial Park (YT km 65). Once there, be sure to check out the Tombstone Interpretive Centre (YT km 71), take a walking tour, or go for a hike. Behold the scenic views of the rugged mountains.

 

Stop 2

Location: Eagle Plains, YT

As you continue north, stop at various scenic pullouts along the way for breathtaking landscapes, such as the Ogilvie-Peel Viewpoint (YT km 259). Eagle Plains (YT km 369) is the perfect place to rest before continuing your journey to the Northwest Territories. As the Dempster Highway crosses the Arctic Circle (YT km 405), be sure to snap a pic and take in the incredible views of the area.

 

Stop 3

Location: Inuvik, NT

The Yukon-Northwest Territories border is located at YT km 465 and NWT km 0 (kilometres reset at the territorial border). Consider exploring the Gwich’in communities of Fort McPherson (NWT km 86) or Tsiigehtchic (NWT km 143) along your route. Once in Inuvik (NWT km 272), check out some of the local sights and don’t forget to stop into the Parks Canada Office to say hello and find out why Inuvik is the perfect starting point for further northern exploration!

 

Stop 4

Location: Tuktoyaktuk, NT

At your final destination, visit the unique landforms at Pingo Canadian Landmark. Don’t miss the impressive Ibyuk, the largest pingo in Canada, the second largest in the world. While in Tuktoyaktuk, go for a paddle, visit the large coin monument, or dip your toe in the Arctic Ocean. Immerse yourself in the Indigenous culture, art and history of this Arctic coast community.

Travel Tips:

• June to early September is the best time to visit
• Prepare for varying weather conditions with appropriate clothing and gear
• Fill your gas tank whenever you can and carry a spare tire
• Be cautious and respectful of wildlife on and near the road
• The Dempster Highway can be rough gravel; check on road conditions before you start your trip
• Bring a satellite phone if you have one and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to arrive.