Aulavik National Park
Far above the Arctic Circle, on the northern end of Banks Island, Aulavik National Park protects one of the most remote wilderness landscapes in Canada. Rolling tundra valleys, braided rivers, dramatic badlands, and endless Arctic skies define this vast northern park.
Aulavik means “place where people travel” in Inuvialuktun, reflecting generations of Inuit and Inuvialuit travel across this region. Today, the park is known for remote wilderness journeys along the Thomsen River, one of the northernmost navigable rivers in the world.
With no roads, no permanent facilities, and very few annual visitors, Aulavik offers a rare opportunity to experience the Arctic on its own terms.
One of Canada’s Most Remote Parks
Aulavik National Park is defined by its isolation, scale, and self-reliant adventure. Located on Banks Island in the Western Arctic, the park sees only a small number of visitors each year, creating a level of solitude that is increasingly rare.
The Thomsen River flows through the centre of the park, drawing experienced paddlers looking for multi-day Arctic canoeing, kayaking and rafting expeditions. Long stretches of open tundra, quiet river travel, and uninterrupted wilderness make the journey feel completely removed from the modern world.
Wildlife of the Western Arctic
Wildlife is part of that experience, unfolding naturally as part of the landscape itself. Muskox moving across ridgelines, birds lifting from tundra lakes, or tracks marking the edge of a riverbank. In Aulavik, encounters are earned through travel, not expected on arrival.
Banks Island supports one of the largest muskox populations in the world, making wildlife viewing one of the defining experiences of visiting Aulavik National Park.
Travellers may also encounter Arctic foxes, barren-ground caribou, wolves, snowy owls, and large numbers of migratory birds during the short Arctic summer. Along the coastline and surrounding waters, seals and whales are occasionally spotted during seasonal migrations.
Arctic Paddling on the Thomsen River
For many visitors, the Thomsen River defines the Aulavik experience. It offers multi-day Arctic canoeing, kayaking and rafting journeys through a vast, undeveloped Arctic landscape.
The river is generally gentle, suited to experienced wilderness paddlers seeking remote expedition travel rather than technical whitewater. Routes follow braided channels, gravel bars, and long stretches of uninterrupted tundra.
These journeys require full self-sufficiency, careful planning, and experience in remote backcountry travel. Conditions can change quickly, and flexibility is essential.
Best Time to Visit Aulavik
Aulavik National Park experiences long winters and a short but dramatic summer season shaped by light, weather, and changing wildlife activity.
Most visitors travel to Aulavik National Park between late June and early August, when rivers are navigable and nearly continuous daylight transforms the tundra under the Midnight Sun. This is the best time for paddling the Thomsen River, wildlife viewing, and backcountry travel. Typical summer temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C.
During the brief Arctic summer, migratory birds arrive in large numbers, wildflowers bloom across the tundra, and long daylight hours allow for extended travel days on the land and water.
By mid to late August, temperatures begin to cool and the landscape shifts into deep reds, golds, and rust colours. Fall brings quieter conditions and striking tundra scenery, though weather becomes more unpredictable.
Because of Aulavik’s Northern location, snow, freezing temperatures, and strong winds are possible at any time of year, including summer. Winter conditions are extreme, often ranging from -20°C to -35°C. Flexibility and preparation are essential parts of travelling in the High Arctic.
Planning Your Journey North
Visiting Aulavik National Park requires significant planning, but the journey is part of what makes the experience so rewarding.
There are no roads into the park. Most visitors access Aulavik by charter aircraft from communities in the Western Arctic. Trips are typically organized through experienced outfitters or independently planned wilderness expeditions.
Travellers should prepare for:
- Charter flight logistics and weather delays
- Self-sufficiency in the backcountry
- No visitor facilities or services inside the park
- Strict Leave No Trace practices
- Wildlife awareness and bear safety preparation
Because access is limited and weather dependent, visitors should build flexibility into their travel plans.
Travelling Through Inuvialuit Lands
Aulavik National Park lies within the traditional homeland of the Inuvialuit. For generations, these lands and waterways have supported travel, harvesting, and cultural traditions.
Today, the park is cooperatively managed with Inuvialuit partners, ensuring that ecological protection and cultural heritage remain deeply connected. Visitors are encouraged to travel with respect for both the land and the animals that call it home. This includes following Leave No Trace practices, minimizing environmental impact, and maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife at all times.
In a place as remote and fragile as Aulavik, every action matters. Travelling responsibly helps ensure this Arctic landscape remains intact for future generations, both human and wildlife alike.
