200 kilometers north of the Arctic circle and at the edge of the Mackenzie River delta, lies the town of Inuvik. Connected to southern Canada by the Dempster Highway, Inuvik in the height of summer becomes a bustling launchpad for adventures across the Western Arctic. Groups embarking on bucket list destinations like Ivvavik National Park and the Firth and Horton Rivers, some of the most unique regions on the planet, will begin their journeys here.
A melting pot of Northern cultures, Inuvik is a major centre of commerce, arts and culture for the Beaufort Delta and the whole western Arctic. Home to large communities of Gwich’in and Inuvialuit people whose powerful cultures are a fascinating juxtaposition to the 21st century installations from the Canadian Space Agency and Royal Canadian Airforce!
Getting to Inuvik: An Immersive Journey!
Situated at the end of the Dempster Highway, traveling to Inuvik by road is an adventure in itself!
Fortunately, excellent and convenient commercial flights are available from major hubs via Whitehorse (Air North) or Yellowknife (via Canadian North)! As you head North the airports quiet and you will see the vast lands of the Yukon and the Northwest Territories play out around you.
For the intrepid traveller, driving to Inuvik offers an epic road trip through the untamed wilderness of the Yukon and NWT. The 740 kilometres of gravel road from Dawson City promise an immersive adventure through rich boreal forests, rugged tundra and dramatic mountain landscapes, as well as fantastic opportunities to observe wildlife including bison, moose and bears.
Make sure to leave extra time for adventures into Tombstone Territorial Park, some hiking in the Richardson Mountains and variable road conditions. Spectacular NWT and Travel Yukon both offer helpful resources for planning your trip.
If you would like more information the team in the Canadian River Expeditions office would be happy to help you with your planning!
A Northern Town Warm at Heart
Originally named New Aklavik, Inuvik (meaning “Place of People” in Inuvialuktun) was created in 1953 by the Canadian Government as the original regional hub of Aklavik was prone to frequent flooding by the Mackenzie River.
Its unique location offers a variety of attractions throughout the year. Perfect for nature lovers, art aficionados, photographers or history enthusiasts, the town has a variety of activities to dive into while you are there. Read on for a list of our top recommendations of what to do, see and eat in the summer!
Western Arctic Regional Visitor Centre
An ideal location to begin your exploration of Inuvik, the Western Arctic Regional Visitor Centre offers fascinating info on the region’s history, ecology, cultures and up-to-date events and attractions. Be sure to receive your “You’ve Crossed the Arctic Circle” certificate and grab the opportunity to chat with local staff to gain a local’s perspective on life in the Arctic. There is even a Cessna 170 mounted as a weathervane outside – perfect for aviation enthusiasts!
Arts, Crafts & Produce
Inuvialuit and Gwich’in Craft Shop
More than just protection from the elements, clothing has traditionally played a central role in Inuvialuit identity and culture. As well as traditional clothing and tools, the Inuvialuit Craft Shop sells a variety of paintings, carvings and jewellery, supporting Indigenous artists across the Western Arctic.
Located at 107 Mackenzie Road, the ICS is well worth a visit, offering the chance to purchase beautiful artwork as well as gain an insight into some of the North’s rich craftsmanship and traditions.
https://craftshop.inuvialuit.com/
Gwich’in Craft Store
Gwich’in Tribal Council Offices provide another great opportunity to pick up an incredible handmade and timeless souvenir.
Located at 3 Council Crescent, the Gwich’in Craft Store operates to preserve and promote Gwich’in craftsmanship and culture from across the Western Arctic. Here you’ll find a variety of handmade items reflecting the rich heritage of the Gwich’in People.
Ph: (867) 777 – 7900
Arctic Market
Showcasing artists, growers, chefs and craftspeople from the local area, this year round market is a weekly highlight for visitors and locals alike. Savour the taste of freshly caught fish, admire the intricate beadwork by local artisans, and satisfy your sweet tooth with baked goods warm from the oven!
Throughout June, July and Arctic, Inuvik’s Arctic Market is located at Chief Jim Koe Park between 11 am and 2 pm.
https://www.facebook.com/Arctic.Market
Hidden Gems!
Of course no small town is complete without a few hidden gems. Ask your guide teams about some of the unofficial craft vendors who can welcome you into their homes and provide access to local and custom goods and even the chance to pick up some of the famous “dry fish” of the region.
The Igloo Church
Standing out as perhaps the most iconic architectural landmark in town, Inuvik’s Igloo Church aims to resemble traditional Inuvialuit snow houses. The church was constructed in 1960 with wood shipped 2,000km down the Mackenzie River – and without any formal planning permission, since officials in Ottawa were unable to decipher the original blueprints!
Tours run through weekdays and weekends during the summer months.
Community Greenhouse
A centrepiece for residents, Inuvik’s Greenhouse is an impressive feat of ingenuity and community spirit. The 16,000 square foot repurposed hockey stadium houses more than 170 beds, including personal plots and a commercial section. The idea is to create a blueprint for northern food sustainability, as well as providing fresh produce to residents. Public and private tours are available during the week.
Outdoor Delights
Boot Lake Trail
If you fancy stretching your legs whilst immersing yourself in pristine birch and spruce forest, the Boot Lake Trail is a 3km loop around the scenic Boot Lake. Ideal for runners and walkers alike, be sure to take your bear spray and keep an eye out for foxes, beavers and moose. Scents of wildflowers will waltz through the air whilst you are soaked in an avian soundbath from the Arctic’s summer migrants.
Jak Park Lookout
Located south of downtown, Jak Park is a wonderful territorial campground with a number of trails and a fantastic lookout where you can ponder the immense scale of the Beaufort Delta and see the distant mountains which mark the edge of the Porcupine Caribou Herd’s range.
Festivals
Inuvialuit Day
June 5 honours Inuvialuit culture with drum dances, music and delicious food. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the festivities!
Midnight Madness Weekend
Summer is short but sweet in the North, so every weekend before the Summer Solstice sees a three day celebration of the Midnight Sun with workshops, dances, music and food. Each year is a little different, so keep up to date with the Town of Inuvik Facebook page for updates!
National Indigenous Peoples Day
On June 21, the town of Inuvik comes together to celebrate Gwich’in, Inuvialuit and Metis cultures. It’s a day full of workshops, performances and community gatherings.
Great Northern Arts Festival
A 10 day bonanza celebrating Arctic games, music, dancing, art and cuisine, the Great Northern Arts Festival takes place every July to celebrate and showcase artists and performers from across the North.
Fuelling Your Adventure: Where To Eat in Inuvik
Any true adventurer requires good fuel! Here are our top two recommendations to re-energise you after a day exploring the Arctic.
Alestine’s – a family owned and operated eatery with the only patio north of the Arctic Circle, you will be welcomed with typical northern warmth and a hearty place of local fish or other homemade delight. Be sure to get there early!
https://www.facebook.com/alestines/
The Roost – if a hearty burger, pizza or plate of pasta is tempting your taste buds, The Roost will answer the calling. This family run restaurant is open 7 days a week and offers curbside pickup if you’d rather dine in your accommodation.
Where To Stay in Inuvik
Arctic Chalet Bed and Breakfast
25 Carn Street
Ph: (867) 777-3535
Fax: (867) 777-4443
Email: judi@arcticchalet.com
arcticchalet.com
The Arctic Chalet is a short drive out of town.
Nova Inn Inuvik
300 Mackenzie Road
https://novahotels.ca/nova-inn-inuvik/
MacKenzie Hotel
185 MacKenzie Road
Ph: (867) 777-2861
Fax: (867) 777-3317
Email: mackenziehotel@northwestel.net
mackenziehotel.com
Arctic Char Suites
170 Mackenzie Road
https://arcticcharsuites.com/
Practical Tips for Visiting Inuvik
A Note on Clothing
Summer is unpredictable in the Arctic, so ensuring you pack the right gear will ensure you make the most out of your time here. The northern latitude means the UV index is high, making sun block, lip chap, sun glasses and a wide brim hat all essentials in your suitcase.
Though summer temperatures are typically warmer, it is not unusual for temperatures to reach zero or even for snow to arrive! “Pack for the Arctic with a side of Mexico” is a classic adage of our Firth River guides and has served us well in our 40 years of operation. Having waterproof clothing, a puffy jacket and several warm layers will keep you toasty whilst you’re exploring.
Don’t forget to pack your bug shirt either! The Arctic’s rich ecosystems are home to healthy insect populations – including mosquitoes. We recommend The Original Bug Shirt and a bottle of good bug spray such as Off!
A Note about Northern Prices
The north is not a mass market destination; the experiences found here are like nothing else on the planet. The cost of goods and services in Inuvik tend to be higher due to the town’s remote location. However, the stunning landscape, warm hospitality and lifelong memories far exceed any price tag!
Ready to Explore the Arctic?
Inuvik offers a rare chance to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic firsthand. Now that you have become acquainted with the rich culture, history and traditions of the region, you are ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime and explore the unique ecosystems, awe-inspiring landscapes and untouched wilderness which await!
Find out more about our Firth River Rafting or Horton River Canoeing expedition, or get in touch with our friendly Expedition Planning Team to start planning your own unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arctic Tundra!
