Find Your Path North: Journey Along Yellowknife’s Trans Canada Trail

Perched on the Canadian Shield and the shores of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife has long been a gateway to Canada’s northern landscapes, and the traditional home of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation since time immemorial.

Today, the capital of the Northwest Territories attracts a wide variety of visitors. From travellers seeking meaningful cultural experiences to those pursuing outdoor adventure and the awe inspiring Northern Lights. Long famed as a base for northern travel, Yellowknife continues to welcome people drawn North by both its vibrant community and breathtaking landscape. 

Read on to discover how the Trans Canada Trail can connect you with Yellowknife’s natural splendour, diverse history and welcoming community.  

Photo credit: Dave Brosha Photography, NWTT

Explore northern natural beauty within city limits 

Start on the Frame Lake Trail, a seven-kilometre loop from Yellowknife’s core and Somba K’e Park that winds out to rocky backcountry and wetlands. Cycle, hike or run through boreal forest or watch waterfowl, foxes and other wildlife from boardwalks over the water.   

Another great spot for birding is the Niven Lake Trail, a haven for warblers, diving ducks and other species in summer.  

Located closer to the suburbs, the Range Lake Trail is a shorter, easier route that’s ideal for dog walkers and families with young kids.  

While not a section of the Trans Canada Trail, the nearby Tin Can Hill Trail lets outdoor adventurers see another side of Yellowknife. Climb past Labrador tea bushes and spruce trees before earning your reward: incredible vistas over Great Slave Lake.  

Walk through Yellowknife’s vibrant past and present 

The lands around Yellowknife have long been home to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, whose presence and stewardship continued through major periods of change. 

Connect with the Territory’s rich history at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre the museum and archives of the Northwest Territories. Its collection features paintings, sculptures, tools, geological samples and many other items that shed light on local and territorial heritage and cultures. Continue along the Frame Lake Trail and stop by the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly for a free guided tour.   

Then, head off the Trail towards Old Town to take in Houseboat Bay. This colourful community of floating homes has been here since the 1980s and is populated by locals all year round.  

Yellowknife’s flourishing arts scene also pays tribute to its rich past and exciting present. On the Trail, take in the ‘United in Celebration’ sculpture on the shore of Frame Lake. Then, follow the city’s art walk to discover galleries and shops selling a wide range of traditional and modern crafts.   

Photo credit: Destination Canada, NWTT

Watch for celestial wonders all year round 

As North America’s Aurora capital, Yellowknife’s skies play host to the Northern Lights up to an incredible 240 nights per year. Just outside the city, low levels of light pollution create an ideal spot to watch green and purple ribbons dance across the night sky overhead. 

In fall and winter, venture out on Yellowknife’s Trail sections after dark, when Aurora activity reaches its peak. Alternatively, treat yourself to an Aurora lodge stay nearby, which includes accommodation and activities guided by local operators.  

Visiting in summer? Prepare yourself for almost endless daylight, as the Midnight Sun dominates the skies between April and August. During this time of year, life in Yellowknife feels somewhat surreal: tackling the Trail in the wee small hours of the morning might seem like a midday hike! Bring your camera to capture this famed phenomenon – and the long golden hour it creates.

Get a taste for Yellowknife’s unique food scene 

Has all that adventuring in Yellowknife whetted your appetite? Luckily, this city offers plenty of places to satiate your hunger.  

For locally grown snacks and fresh produce, look no further than Yellowknife Farmers Market. Hosted in Somba K’e Civic Plaza each summer, it’s the perfect spot to pick up light bites and picnic supplies for your day on the Trail. The market also gives visitors a taste for Yellowknife’s music scene and features local performers and bands each week.  

Craving some caffeine or cookies? Head to Barren Ground Coffee – a short distance from the Frame Lake Trail – for a barista-made brew and some sweet treats.  

For dinner, take a stroll in Yellowknife’s historic Old Town. Start your evening with a refreshing pint from NWT Brewing Co. – Canada’s northernmost brewpub. Then, enjoy fish and chips with a view at Bullock’s Bistro, or a hearty plate of hot wings, steak or curry at Flamecraft Grill N Chill.  

A national trail network that connects Canada’s greatest landscapes 

Supported by the Government of Canada and generous donations, the Trans Canada Trail links every province and territory, including the spectacular landscapes around Yellowknife.  

Its enhancement is powered by our Trail Catalyst Fund, which helps trail managers across Canada complete repairs and improve accessibility. Find out more about the Trail Catalyst Fund or how you can support our work. 

Seeking more tips for an unforgettable break in the Northwest Territories? Visit our friends at Spectacular NWT for local knowledge and inspiration. 

Main photo credit: Lenora Barrett, NWTT