It’s always a good time to visit Yellowknife! The capital city of the Northwest Territories is famed for its Aurora viewing. For up to 240 nights a year, you can witness the Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as the Northern Lights. 

Does it get cold here? You bet. But that doesn’t stop Yellowknifers from having fun all winter long. Here’s our guide to the best winter activities to enjoy in Yellowknife—don’t miss out if you’re visiting between November and April.

First things first: you’ll need to suit up. Yellowknife’s temperatures can dip down to -40°C (or colder), but that doesn’t stop locals from enjoying the outdoors. The trick is having the right gear to keep you warm so you can fully embrace the cold. Many tour operators offer cold-weather gear rentals, or if you’re looking to purchase winter clothing, you can check out Weaver & Devore. Established in 1936, this store has everything you need, from parkas and snow pants to hats, mitts, boots, and so much more. It’s your one-stop Northern shop!

Huskies are some of the original trailblazers of the North, and they’re sure to lead you to a good time. Trust us—a dogsledding tour is a must  when visiting the NWT. Feel the thrill as you glide through the snow on a sled pulled by energetic, well-trained dogs, experiencing uniquely Northern and age-old traditions.

If you prefer horsepower over dog power, take a snowmobile tour. Or, if you’d rather hit the trails under your own steam, try a fat bike tour—there are options for all cycling abilities.

Yellowknife is famous for its extensive network of trails, each leading to unique northern sceneries. While you’re downtown, check out Frame Lake or Niven Lake—both scenic and accessible on foot. Tin Can Hill, a two-kilometre loop which offers breathtaking views, includes a spectacular look at Yellowknife Bay. Then there’s Ranney Hill Trail, just six kilometres from Yellowknife, which provides a short hike with outstanding views of the surrounding landscape.

Looking for more adventure? Head a little further to the scenic Cameron Falls, a stunning waterfall that looks like a picture frozen in time. And don’t forget your camera!

Prefer ski trails? Rent a pair of cross-country skis and explore the freshly groomed routes along the ice-covered Frame Lake, Back Bay, and the 14 kilometres of well-marked trails at the Yellowknife Ski Club.

As dusk settles in, it’s time for nature’s ultimate light show—the spectacular Aurora Borealis. Book an evening with a local Aurora tour operator and journey through Yellowknife’s many unique backdrops to experience the Northern Lights dancing above.

Or, turn your adventure up a notch by pairing your Aurora viewing with a Northern winter experience. Imagine being whisked away from the city lights, riding on a snowmobile or dogsled to witness the luminous glory of the Lights in the wilderness.

Why settle for just one night of Aurora chasing? Staying at an Aurora lodge in the Northwest Territories is a great way to immerse yourself in unparalleled Northern landscapes, while still enjoying the comforts of modern amenitiesBring your best camera, rent a tripod on-site, and let the experienced operators show you how to capture the perfect shot of the Aurora—a memory frozen in time.

If you’re in Yellowknife in March, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience! March brings longer daylight hours, perfect for winter activities, while still offering incredible Aurora viewing at night.

One of the season’s biggest highlights is the famous Snowking’s Winter Festival. Every year, Anthony Foliot—better known as the “Snowking”—and his team build a stunning snow castle on the frozen Great Slave Lake. The castle features ice bars, slides, craft markets, shows, and concerts. It’s an authentic Yellowknife attraction you won’t want to miss.

One of the wonders of winter in the NWT is driving on an ice road. It’s a surreal experience driving on a frozen lake, but rest assured—the ice gets thick enough to support tractor-trailers and even concerts!

The ice road to Dettah across Yellowknife Bay opens as early as mid-December until mid-April, growing 4-6 feet thick. Take a short trip – 6km (3.7 mi) – to visit the Dene community of Dettah, or drive up the ice road from Vee Lake to set up your ice fishing hut for the day.

If you’re looking to spend a few hours indoors, why not do something creative? Check out Old Town Glassworks, where you can sandblast your own design onto recycled glass for a unique Yellowknife souvenir. Or perhaps you’d prefer a more laid-back artistic experience. Head over to Down to Earth Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in authentic Northern creations by talented artists. You may even get to hear stories behind the crafts, as most of the staff are artists themselves. 

After a jam-packed few days, you’ll have some amazing memories of your time in Yellowknife. Visit Yellowknife’s shops and galleries downtown and in Old Town and pick up a memento to proudly display back home. You’ll find handmade moccasins, beadwork, carvings, prints, birchbark baskets, local treats like birch syrup, and even diamonds. While downtown, it is always fun to take a Yellowknife walking tour, snow or shine. Get to know the eclectic city as you journey through its history, moving from the Old Town to the modern south end.

The winter air will recharge your body, now let’s refresh your mind. Come inside from the great outdoors to experience one of the many historical spaces within Yellowknife and its interesting history. The Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly is a unique building designed to maintain its natural landscape setting, including the trees, rock outcrops, and the lakeshore. Carvings and crafts from across the territory are featured within the space and free guided tours are available Monday to Friday and Sundays. Find out about the territory’s consensus-style government, and don’t miss the NWT’s special collection of Group of Seven painter A.Y. Jackson’s works on display.

Nature’s North Wildlife Gallery is sure to be a family favourite. Featuring taxidermy exhibits of incredibly resilient and diverse Northern species, this space lets your imagination step into the world of wildlife, offering a unique Northern experience. After exploring the natural and modern worlds, step into history at the Yellowknife Historical Society Museum.

After a day of skiing, hiking, or sightseeing, satisfy your appetite with a taste of Yellowknife’s local flavors. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to try traditional foods with a Northern twist, from fresh fish sourced straight from Great Slave Lake to bannock and bison dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light bite, there’s no shortage of delicious options to warm you up after your winter adventures.

Excited to see a true winter wonderland? Read more about what Northerners look forward to every winter and the ways you can keep busy (and warm!) on your authentic Northern experience.

Find the best way to fill your day while you wait for the Northern Lights to return at nightfall with more winter activities to do during your visit to the NWT.