Sun-Soaked Escapes: Summer Weekends in the NWT

Home Story Sun-Soaked Escapes: Summer Weekends in the NWT

FISHING AND BOATING ON GREAT SLAVE LAKE IN THE NWT. Image Angela Gzowski — Sun-Soaked Escapes: Summer Weekends in the NWT

Welcome to summer in the Northwest Territories, where sunny skies and temperatures averaging at a high of 21°C (71°F) invite you to make the most of your weekends and holidays. With nearly 24 hours of daylight under the Midnight Sun, summer in the NWT is a season of boundless adventure, where locals and visitors alike head outdoors to soak up every moment.

People Fly Fishing in Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve int eh NWT — Cast a Line Under the Midnight Sun

With long daylight hours, summer in the Northwest Territories means more time to fish under the glowing Midnight Sun. Whether you’re casting from a boat on Great Slave Lake or hopping on a float plane to take you to a remote fishing lodge, you’ll find pristine waters teeming with fish, offering some of the best freshwater fishing in the North.

A highlight of any fishing adventure is the traditional shore lunch. After a successful morning on the water, fishing operators prepare a hearty meal right on the shoreline. Freshly caught fish are expertly filleted and cooked over an open fire, accompanied by tasty sides such as bannock, roasted potatoes, and grilled corn. This outdoor culinary experience, set against the stunning Northern landscape, turns a great day of fishing into an unforgettable adventure.

Trips are available for all skill levels, from half-day excursions to full-day adventures. With knowledgeable guides and all the gear provided, fishing in the NWT is as effortless as it is extraordinary.

The MacKenzie River in the Sahtu region of the NWT. Photo Nicky Lynn Richards — Paddle Northern Waters

The NWT also offers unforgettable paddling. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out, paddling operators and outfitters across the territory provide everything you need to get on the water, including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and safety gear.

Paddle tours range from short outings to multi-day adventures, with options suited to all skill levels. Explore the red cliffs of the East Arm and Thaıdene Nëné National Park Reserve by kayak, paddle through Yellowknife’s Houseboat Bay, or join a guided trip along ancient Dene travel routes in the Dehcho. Looking for whitewater? The Slave River rapids near Fort Smith draw paddlers from around the world, with local guides offering support to both experts and adventurous intermediates.

And in summer, it’s not just where you paddle that’s memorable, it’s when. With the Midnight Sun lighting the sky well past conventional hours, there’s no need to rush. You can paddle in golden twilight at 11 p.m., or enjoy still waters bathed in that soft Arctic glow. It’s a serene, surreal experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Nahanni National Park waterfall. Person enjoying the spectaular NWT — Camp, Hike and Bike all Weekend

With over 30 territorial parks and six national parks, the Northwest Territories is a camper’s paradise. Whether you’re pitching a tent or pulling in with an RV, you’ll find scenic spots across every region. If you need gear, local outfitters in nearly every community can help with equipment rentals. Campsite reservations can be made through NWT Parks, where you can explore campground amenities and availability.

For hikers, many parks and campgrounds offer easy access to scenic, well-marked trails that lead into some of the most beautiful backcountry in Canada. If you prefer a guided experience, knowledgeable operators and outfitters offer hiking tours in many communities across the NWT.For a different kind of adventure, hop on a bike or e-bike to explore trails, parks, or community paths at your own pace, making it easy to add a little extra motion to your weekend getaway, no matter your fitness level or cycling style.

People swim at Lafferty Creek in Nahanni National Park Reserve. NWT. Photo Angela Gzowski — Cool Off in the land of Lakes

When the summer sun heats things up, head to one of the countless lakes spread across the Northwest Territories – here, you’re never far from a refreshing swim or a peaceful shoreline. Popular sandy beaches can be found in Hay River, Yellowknife’s Long Lake, Great Bear Lake, Pine Lake, and Little Doctor Lake. The long daylight hours mean the water has time to warm up (at least in most places.) If you’re dipping into the Arctic Ocean in Tuktoyaktuk, though, brace yourself, it’s still cold!

Dene Drummers preform at Folkk on the Rocks Music festival in Yellowknife NWT — Celebrate Summer at Festivals and Markets

Don’t miss vibrant weekly markets like:

Yellowknife Farmers Market

Hay River’s Fisherman’s Wharf

Inuvik’s Arctic Market

These gatherings feature fresh local food, handmade crafts, and live music.

On National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), enjoy cultural showcases, art displays, and a traditional fish fry in Yellowknife, hosted by the North Slave Métis Alliance. Canada Day on July 1, brings music, fireworks, and celebrations across the territory.

Looking for more summer fun?

Folk on the Rocks – Yellowknife’s iconic music and culture festival (mid July)

Hay Days Festival – Family fun and music in Hay River (July)

Open Sky Festival – Multidisciplinary arts in Fort Simpson (late June or early July)

Great Northern Arts Festival – Five days of art, dance, and storytelling in Inuvik (mid July)

Old Town Ramble & Ride – Yellowknife’s August long weekend street festival with music, workshops, and walking tours (early August)

Find a full list of events on our Festivals & Events page.

Pingos in the Northwest Territories. A Candian Nation Landmark. Chris Kelly — Witness Iconic Northern Sights

In Wood Buffalo National Park, discover the world’s largest beaver dam, a 775-metre wonder visible from space. Charter a sightseeing flight from Fort Simpson to see it for yourself.

In the Western Arctic, visit Tuktoyaktuk and the Pingo National Landmark. Home to more than 1,300 pingos, ice-cored hills unique to the Arctic, the area features Ibyuk, the second-largest pingo on Earth, towering 15 stories high.

By mid-August, the Midnight Sun begins to fade and darkness returns, bringing the first flickers of Fall Aurora. It’s the perfect end to a summer weekend: a sky full of dancing Northern Lights. Tour operators across the territory are ready to guide you on an unforgettable Aurora adventure.

Ready to explore even more of what makes the NWT spectacular? Discover the Northwest Territories’ National Parks, where epic landscapes, rare wildlife, and timeless traditions await.

Start planning your Northern adventure today! Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter to get inspired and learn more about all the spectacular Northwest Territories has to offer!

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