Winter in the Northwest Territories: Our Top Activities and Trails for Snow-Filled Fun
Winter and the Canadian North go hand in hand. Whether you’re gliding across snowy trails, chasing the Aurora or warming up with a post-outing treat, the Northwest Territories is your perfect cold-weather playground.
Did you know that 3,400 kilometres of the Trans Canada Trail is situated in the Northwest Territories, including water and land routes? We’ve compiled a few suggestions of where to get outside and have fun, on and off the Trans Canada Trail, in the Spectacular Northwest Territories.
What winter activities to do
As you can imagine, people up north have found many ways to get active and have fun outside. Among them, our top two are cross-country skiing and snowshoeing – with some Aurora spotting mixed in.
And much more winter fun is out there: snowmobiling, dog sledding and ice fishing are all popular outdoor activities in the colder months.
Where to cross-country ski in the territory
Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to move, explore and stay warm in the snowy season. It’s an excellent form of full-body exercise, and it gives you a peaceful, active option for getting outside and getting moving.
Photo credit: Paul Zizka/NWTT
Our suggestions:
• Yellowknife: Try the City of Yellowknife – Frame Lake, Range Lake or Niven Lake trails. After you ski, head into town for a bite to eat at the popular NWT Brewing Company or Bullock’s Bistro, or one of several other excellent options. For options off the Trans Canada Trail, Yellowknife Ski Club’s trail network is a great bet.
• Fort Smith: Fort Smith is home to the annual Thebacha Loppet, Western Canada’s oldest classic ski tour! Practice for the main event – or just get some trail time in – on Fort Smith’s cross-country ski network.
No gear? No problem! Several outdoor outfitters rent cross-country skis, and many lodges offer winter gear for guests.
Photo credit: Destination Canada/NWTT
Where to snowshoe in the territory
Snowshoeing is easy to learn, another great form of outdoor exercise – and often the most practical option in deep snow – and an integral part of NWT culture. Snowshoes were traditionally crafted by Indigenous artisans and are still made in the same way today. Many cabins and lodges offer them for use, and rentals are easy to find if you’re exploring on your own.
Our suggestions:
• Fort Simpson: The Fort Simpson Village Loop takes you around the circumference of the village. Learn more about snowshoeing and other visitor attractions in the area. And don’t miss the Film Festival if you’re in town!
• Hay River: The Town of Hay River Trail offers snowshoeing options. Don’t miss the Polar Pond Hockey tournament in March, or the K’amba Carnival, hosted by K’atlo’deech First Nations!
• Inuvik: The Boot Lake Trail is groomed year-round and offers a 3-kilometre loop with beautiful views.
Photo credit: Weronika-Murrary/NWTT
Must-do: Aurora viewing
While not strictly Trans Canada Trail-related, we can’t talk about winter in the NWT without mentioning the Aurora Borealis. The Northwest Territories is one of the best places on the planet to see the Northern Lights, which are visible up to 240 nights a year. Aurora viewing experiences draw visitors from across Canada and around the world.
Our suggestion for the full Aurora experience: Book a stay at one of the region’s many Aurora lodges or take a guided excursion.
Nature awaits
From cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to Aurora gazing and beyond, the Northwest Territories offers a winter experience like no other, both on and off the Trans Canada Trail. . And we’ve just scratched the surface! Dog sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling and more are all popular activities for the colder months. Find inspiration on the Spectacular NWT website.
Photo credit: Chris Kelly/NWTT
Tips for being outdoors in the Canadian North
Winter in the Northwest Territories is magical, but powerful! Stay safe and comfortable with these quick tips:
• Dress the part: Average temperatures in the winter range from –15°C to –30°C, with lows of –40°C! This video gear guide from Spectacular NWT will help you get prepared.
• Layer up: You’ll warm up fast when you’re outside and moving on the Trail. Wearing layers allows you to regulate your temperature more easily while still staying protected from the elements.
• Plan ahead: Check the weather, map your route, and tell someone your plans. Depending on where you’re headed, you may need to bring a printed map or a GPS device.
• Stay on the Trail: Venturing off for that amazing shot or secret spot might look tempting, you can run into risky situations quickly in cold temperatures.
• Use sun protection: Both sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
Learn more about Northwest Territories winter fun at Spectacular NWT.
Explore the Northwest Territories on our interactive map. You can even filter by activity to find your perfect route.
Find more winter inspiration with #Blahs2Ahhhs presented by Manulife
Main photo credit: Destination Canada/NWTT
