Known traditionally as Tthenáágó – meaning “strong rock” in Dene Zhatıé – Nahanni Butte sits under the protective watch of the scenic mountain that lends this cozy hamlet its name. The settlement is located at the confluence of the South Nahanni and Liard Rivers, about 125 kilometres north of the British Columbia border.
With its proximity to Blackstone Territorial Park and easy river access, Nahanni Butte is a common stop for paddlers exiting the Nahanni National Park Reserve. During your visit, don’t miss out on a chance to hike Nahanni Butte’s namesake mountain for incredible views of the community and surrounding landscape.
The Naha Dene and Kaska have used this area for centuries, but it became permanently settled in the late 1950s when the federal government relocated people from nearby Netla River, 24 kilometres away. The Dene of the area are represented by the Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band.
Being so close to the mysterious Nahanni wilderness, Nahanni Butte is also home to many legends and myths that have arisen over the years. The area has been haunted by rumours of a lost gold mine, mysterious disappearances, and even a Bigfoot-like creature called a Nuk-luk that was reportedly seen in 1964.
There is no all-season road access to Nahanni Butte. During the winter months cars can use the ice road to cross the Liard. In the summer, drivers can arrange a river taxi. Contact the local band office to get in touch with taxi operators and arrange a pickup before your trip.
