Skip to main content

Find out more about the current wildfire and wildfire-related concerns in the NWT.

Home Story The Mackenzie River the NWT’s Gateway to the Arctic Ocean
Aurora view from Mackenzie River

The Mackenzie River - the NWT’s Gateway to the Arctic Ocean

The longest paddling trip you can take in Canada without ever having to carry your canoe, the 1,800-kilometre Mackenzie River is brimming with astounding landscapes, thrilling adventures, and rich history. Paddling the Mackenzie is a journey full of changing rhythms and beats, pushes and pulls.

The month-long voyage winds through the Northwest Territories, maneuvering past rugged peaks and boreal woodlands, crossing the Arctic Circle, descending through the Mackenzie Delta, and finishing at the Arctic Ocean. Novice and experienced paddlers alike will enjoy this sensational route. Ready to get the lowdown? Here are some insider details on how to experience this unforgettable journey on the “Big River” for yourself.

Deh Cho bridge over the mighty Mackenzie River in the NWT.  Photo Corey Meyers

Go with a Gentle Flow

The Mackenzie River begins at the western end of Great Slave Lake, a sort of warm-up before the main event, with a quiet, slow-moving river amid a calm and peaceful environment. The slow pace and solitude experienced here free the mind of the daily bustle and provide endless opportunities for sightseeing, including vivid and vibrant sunrises.

Travel alongside the Mackenzie Bison Sanctuary, home to North America’s largest land animal, the majestic wood buffalo. Feel the pull of the river as you make your way through waves, waterfalls, and blissful currents. Then take a deep breath as you paddle beneath the iconic Deh Cho cable bridge, the only bridge spanning the Mackenzie River. This eye-catching structure serves as a reminder of humanity’s footprint and our ability to work in harmony with the environment.

The first of about twelve communities along the river, Fort Providence is a friendly Dene and Métis settlement on the north side of the river. If you are looking to stretch your legs, pop into The Snowshoe Inn and marvel at the handmade goods, like caribou antler jewelry and moose tufting wall hangings. Back on the river, watch for plentiful waterfowl as you cross Mills Lake, the widest part of the Mackenzie River, 20 kms at the widest point.

View of Mackenzie River and teepee from Mackinnon Park in the Northwest Territories

Continue the Adventure into Communities Alive with Tradition

After the river narrows, keep your eyes out for the small community of Jean Marie River, traditionally called Tthets’ek’ehdeli, meaning “water flowing over clay”. Here lies a community with fewer than 100 residents nestled in an idyllic setting.

A traditional lifestyle is still very much thriving, and activities like hunting, fishing and trapping are part of everyday life. This community is home to the TthedzehK’edeli Got’ie First Nation and is the perfect pit stop. Have a picnic, stretch your legs, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the flats

Aerial of Fort Simpson on the Mackenzie River

Not far downriver beyond the rocky shoreline, you’ll arrive at Fort Simpson, where the Liard and the Mackenzie Rivers meet. This place isn’t just entertaining, it’s practical too. It’s a perfect spot to stock up on food and travel essentials. But make sure to leave time to relax and enjoy the local sights, like the Indigenous craft artist shops and the riverfront heritage sites.

Next, hop back on the Mackenzie and swing north at Camsell Bend. Now is a good time to introduce yourself to the majestic mountains, as they’ll accompany you for most of the rest of your trip!

Bear rock along the Mackenzie river int eh community of Tulita NWT. Photo Angela Gzowski

Pedzéh Kı̨́, as it is traditionally known, more commonly Wrigley, is the perfect example of a place where natural and man-made elements are perfectly intertwined. This small but vibrant community is easily accessible by road, sitting at the end of the Mackenzie Highway. But arriving by river provides a truly spectacular sight, looking at the small homes amidst the permanence of the Franklin Mountains.

After this, you’ll spend the next several weeks beyond the reach of roads. First stop, a mere 620 kilometers from Yellowknife, and 72 km from Norman Wells, a small community only accessible by air, paddling, or winter roads: Tulita.  This community sits at the junction of the Bear and Mackenzie Rivers, in the shadow of legendary Bear Rock, a sacred Dene site used for reflection and prayer. 

Be sure to squeeze in a few extra days for off-water fun, as there are stunning day hikes off the Mackenzie. The Bear Rock Trail offers stunning views of Tulita and your twisting water highway. Local guides will lead you to the most scenic lookouts. You’re not far from one of Canada’s newest parks, the Nááts’ihch’oh National Park Reserve, full of fast-flowing whitewater adventures

Norman Wells_Sahtu_NWT_Nicky Richards

Paddle to “Where there is Oil”

Take your memories with you and follow the mountains to a very different world, the Mackenzie’s famous oil fields. Here, Alexander Mackenzie, for whom the river is named after, observed oil bubbling out of the banks of the river. Witness man-made mid-river islands and more pumpjacks than trees, busily pulling petroleum from deep beneath the streambed. Industrious Norman Wells, traditionally named Tłegǫ́htı̨, translates to “where there is oil.” 

This historic town of approximately 650 residents is another great place to take a break from the big river and learn about the NWT’s industrial history. Here you’ll find grocery stores, restaurants, museums, and even a golf course! Before heading back to the Mackenzie, play a quick round of golf at the Ptarmigan Ridge Golf Course.

Here in Norman Wells, you’ll also find the starting point of the Canol Trail, a historic and rugged route originally built during WWII to transport oil. Intrepid hikers can follow this remote trail through breathtaking landscapes, crossing alpine plateaus, river valleys, and remnants of the old pipeline. The Canol Trail offers a unique challenge for seasoned hikers and history buffs alike, with its mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

The MacKenzie Delta in the Northwest Territories

Traverse the Ever Changing Landscapes of the North

Back on the river, marvel at the sheer-sided Ramparts, a narrow canyon of limestone walls that chokes the Mackenzie River for twelve kilometres, narrowing from almost 2 kilometres wide to about 100 metres. The golden hues juxtaposed with the blue skies and changing water are a photographer’s paradise. 

Float your way to the banks, where Fort Good Hope sits. It is home to the Lady of Good Hope church, the oldest permanent structure in Northern Canada. As you continue along the Dehcho, be sure to look out for wildlife that use the river as a life source. Caribou, Muskox, moose, and bears roam these lands, so keep an eye out for these incredible creatures!

Each sunrise is a small reminder that you are a little further on your journey. There’s nothing like the morning sun reflecting off the paddle as it dips in and out of the water, following the changing landscape. As you near the Gwich’in community of Tsiigehtchic, you enter the winding web of the Mackenzie Delta, which empties into the Beaufort Sea.

Congratulations, you are now beyond the treeline…

An aerial view of a Pingo near Tuktoyaktuk in the NWT. Photo Kristian Binder

The Secret Path to the Arctic Ocean

Inuvik, the capital of the Western Arctic and the largest town along the Mackenzie River, is a must-stop. Check out the local landmarks and food options, like Alestine’s, a local big yellow school bus diner! Tasty reindeer chili and burgers, as well as local White Fish tacos, are served up and made to order. Word has it it’s the only patio north of the Arctic Circle. The reviews are fantastic, so don’t miss this opportunity to fill up on more than just paddling supplies! 

Onward to Tuktoyaktuk, the “pingo” capital of the world. Pingos are ice mounds covered by vegetation and are truly the only “hills” in sight. This is the perfect opportunity to take a guided tour of the fascinating Pingo Canadian Landmark.

You’ve made it! Here you are, at the mouth of the Mackenzie, where it pours into the Arctic Ocean. Dip your toes in and reflect on your remarkable journey. You’ve paddled 1,800 kilometres, and no portages!

Not quite ready to paddle your way to the Arctic Ocean? Embark on the road trip of a lifetime and drive the Dempster Highway from Dawson City in the Yukon to Inuvik and then to Tuktoyaktuk, where the highway ends right at the edge of the Arctic Ocean.

member icon Member
Nahanni River Adventures

Spectacular river journeys on Canada’s most iconic rivers. Travel with expert guides by raft or canoe and immerse yourself in......

member icon Member
Blachford Lodge

What began as a “part time fishing lodge” has now become a “full time Aurora Wilderness Lodge” open year round......

member icon Member
Trail Blazer Tours

Book an adventure with us at Trail Blazer Tours for an unforgettable experience! Your adventure with us will create lasting......

member icon Member
Canoe North Adventures

For over 30 years, Canoe North Adventures has made it our mission to create spectacular memories for life, and to show......

member icon Member
Ji Guang Tour

With over 30 years of living in Yellowknife, we offer a variety of tourism experiences for our guests. We are......

member icon Member
Andrew Lake and Lynx Tundra Lodges

Arctic Adventure & Wildlife viewing on the edge of the tree line of Canada’s Northwest Territories. Lynx Lake 400 km......

member icon Member
Ram Head Outfitters Ltd.

Commercial air charter service providing air support for hikers on Canol Road, sightseeing in the beautiful Mackenzie Mountains, and fly-in fishing......

member icon Member
Arctic Chalet Tours

Best Northern Road Trip! Now you can drive all the way to the Arctic ocean linking Canada from coast to......

member icon Member
Aylmer Lake Lodge

DISCOVER A MOMENT THAT LASTS A LIFETIME. Aylmer Lake Lodge is located in Rocknest Bay, which is on the Barren......

member icon Member
Simpson Air

Simpson Air (and its predecessor) is the oldest continuously-operated flying service in the Mackenzie Valley, established in the early 1960s.......

member icon Member
Canoe North

Canoe North, located in Hay River, Northwest Territories offers kayak and canoe rentals and sales. We can set you up for a......

member icon Member
Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures

For a Great Northern Experience! Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures offers a variety of day trips ranging from 2 to 10 hours......

member icon Member
Watta Lake Lodge

Comfortable lodge a 20 minute by floatplane ride from Yellowknife. Guided fishing for Lake Trout (to 34 lb), Arctic Grayling (to......

member icon Member
Bluefish Outfitting

With Bluefish Outfitting you’ll get an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. Bluefish Outfitting offers personalized, guided fishing trips and boat tours on......

member icon Member
North-Wright Airways Ltd.

If are looking for a spectacular weekend retreat nestled in the serenity of the Mackenzie Mountains at Ten Stone Mountain Lodge. North-Wright......

member icon Member
Nahanni Mountain Lodge

Remote private wilderness paradise on Little Doctor Lake, 100 km west of Fort Simpson. Accommodates 20 in cabins. Fishing, swimming,......

member icon Member
Great Slave Lake Tours

Great Slave Lake Tours offers winter and summer trips on Great Slave Lake, the ninth biggest lake in the world......

member icon Member
Yellowknife Tours

Come experience world-class Aurora Borealis viewing in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. We are the only guides in the Northwest Territories......

member icon Member
Sundog Adventures

Sundog Adventures is a year-round experiential tour company based in Yellowknife’s Old Town. During the winter we offer kicksled tours......

member icon Member
Jackpine Paddle

Unplug from the commonplace with our Northwest Territories canoe and kayak expeditions. We specialize in true wilderness adventures to the......

member icon Member
Diamonds de Canada

Canada has a deep love for our natural resources with diamonds being the highest expression of love.  Thanks to Canada’s world class standard for sustainable mining, we are custodians of our precious lands and take great pride and care releasing these rare gems.  From the moment our land is surveyed to the final reclamation (the […]...

member icon Member
Dancing Skies Photo Tours

Dancing Skies is a new tour operator in Yellowknife, led by an experienced northern lights chaser and photographer with a passion for contemplation. Specializing in private tours and small groups of up to 5 people, we prioritize silent, serene observation and photography of the aurora, far from the crowds. With expertise in Space Weather data, […]...

member icon Member
Kasba Lake Lodge

World Class Fishing Within Reach Yet Beyond Belief For 3 generations we have been honing the Kasba experience to be like no-other. Our level of hospitality, dedication to the fishery, and a legendary passion for the experience that permeates through our entire team is undeniably contagious. No matter what you’re looking for in your fishing […]...

member icon Member
My Backyard Tours

We offer winter clothing rentals. Our winter clothing will keep you warm and comfortable for your outdoor fun – ask us......

member icon Member
Arctic Tours Canada

Arctic Tours Canada is a Yellowknife based tour operating company that offer Aurora Hunting and Viewing tours, Yellowknife sightseeing tours,......

member icon Member
Black Feather - The Wilderness Adventure Company

For over 50 years, Black Feather has had the opportunity to operate canoe, hiking and sea kayaking expeditions throughout the......

member icon Member
Tukto Lodge

Tukto Lodge has been exceeding anglers’ expectations for more than fifty years. As the only fishing and eco-tourism lodge in......

member icon Member
NARWAL Northern Adventures

Northern and Remote Wilderness Adventures Ltd. (NARWAL) is a small, friendly, majority Aboriginal owned and operated family business. Our reputation......

member icon Member
Old Town Glassworks

Etching popular northern designs on unique 100% recycled glass, since 1994. Visit our gift shop in Old Town or come......

member icon Member
Yellow Dog Lodge, Inc.

Yellow Dog Lodge is a comfortable lodge with 3 private cabins for our guests. The lodge is a short (15 minute) floatplane ride from Yellowknife. Located on Duncan and Graham Lakes, the lodge is your hub for adventure. Choose from an additional 5 lakes for guided day trip excursions. Each lake is unique and offers unspoiled first class fishing. We are the only lodge that operates guided trips on each of these remote lakes located in the NWT taiga wilderness. Packaged trips feature superb sport fishing and safe outdoor adventure. The lakes and streams offer the finest Lake Trout, Northern Pike, Walleye and Arctic Grayling in the region. As an added bonus, our guests will enjoy the midnight sun and may even catch the northern lights later in the fall or early spring....

member icon Member
2 Seasons Adventures

2 Seasons Adventures is a family-owned company. Our professional guides boast a lifetime of experience enjoying the unique lifestyle of......

member icon Member
South Nahanni Outfitters Ltd.

Outfitting to all of us is a way of life, one that we cherish because we love to hunt, love the......

member icon Member
Peterson's Point Lake Lodge

Peterson’s Point Lake Lodge provides you access to known waters teeming with monster lake trout. Their current record is a......

member icon Member
Aurora Village

Aurora Village – A Class of Its Own Aurora Village is a unique Aurora-viewing facility situated 25 minutes from downtown......

Book this entire cabin in the remote wilderness of the stunningly breath-taking, Mackenzie Mountains. This cabin is hands down the......

Pehdzeh Ki First Nation is located in the community of Wrigley, Northwest Territories, Canada. We are a Designated Authority in......

Welcoming and friendly with a rustic charm and all modern conveniences, Grey Goose Lodge immediately catches your eye as you......

Fishing and Barrenlands wildlife photography, including migrating caribou, at the Obstruction Rapids in the central Barrenlands north of Yellowknife....

To truly experience the Northwest Territories, take your camping gear for a highway driving adventure! Long ribbons of road without......

Remote naturalist’s lodge snuggled in the Mackenzie Mountains, in the largest mountain wilderness in North America. Located along the Canol......

member icon Member
Beaufort Sea Adventures

Beaufort Sea Adventures is a family-owned and Indigenous-operated business, proudly offering Arctic experiences in Tuktoyaktuk. Our family lives and breathes the North, giving us a unique insight into the hidden gems that make Tuktoyaktuk truly special. We offer guests an authentic cultural immersion, sharing our Inuvialuit heritage, stories, and deep connection to the land and […]...

Spectacular NWT        </div>
                
    </div>
</div> <!-- end .endo -->

</div>

<script>
    jQuery(document).ready(function(){
        getReadingTime();
        if($('.story-fullwidth section:first').hasClass('mediastack--hero') || $('.story-fullwidth section:first').hasClass('mediastack--video')) {
            $('#social01').css('display', 'none');
            $('#social02').css('display', 'block');
        }else{
            $('#social01').css('display', 'block');
            $('#social02').css('display', 'none');
        }
    });
</script>
					</main><!-- /#main -->
				
<section id=