Délı̨nę Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Délı̨nę, from local culture and customs to the best places to visit and things to do.


Introduction to Délı̨nę

Located in the Northwest Territories, Canada, Délı̨nę is a small, remote town that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Northern Canadian culture and nature. The town is situated on the shore of Great Bear Lake, the fourth largest lake in North America, which provides a stunning backdrop for all outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Délı̨nę

Délı̨nę offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions that make it a must-visit destination. Here are some of the top places to see:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Délı̨nę has a rich indigenous history that is celebrated in its cultural attractions. A few of the must-see museums and historical places are:

  • Délı̨nę Heritage Centre: This cultural centre showcases the traditional way of life for the Sahtu Dene and Métis peoples.
  • Jigging Hill: This hill was once the central meeting place for the local Délı̨nę community and remains an important cultural site.
  • K’áwáziè Online: This online collection of traditional stories and teachings is a valuable resource for learning about Délı̨nę’s culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Délı̨nę: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those looking to explore the natural beauty of Délı̨nę, there are endless outdoor activities to choose from. These are a few of the top natural attractions:

  • Great Bear Lake: This stunning lake provides endless opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming and more.
  • Tisi Cone: This volcanic cone rises about 600 meters above the surrounding landscape and provides sweeping views of the area.
  • Délı̨nę Cutoff Road: This scenic drive offers amazing views of the Mackenzie River and the surrounding forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Délı̨nę

Délı̨nę offers some great hiking and biking routes for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the region. These are a few of our top picks:

  • Camp Trail: This trail runs along the shore of Great Bear Lake and provides stunning views of the water and surrounding forest.
  • Tsiigehtchic Road Trail: This trail runs through the forest and provides a chance to see wildlife such as moose and caribou.
  • Pike’s Portage Trail: This trail provides a challenging hike through rugged terrain and ends at a historic portage that was once used by fur traders.

Best Things to Do in Délı̨nę: Activities and Tours

There are a variety of activities and tours available in Délı̨nę to help visitors experience the best of what the town has to offer. These are a few of our top picks:

  • Fishing: Great Bear Lake is known for its fishing and supports a variety of species, including lake trout, Arctic grayling and more.
  • Cultural tours: Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Sahtu Dene and Métis peoples through cultural tours of the town.
  • Northern Lights watching: Délı̨nę is an excellent place to see the Northern Lights, and visitors can take guided tours to get the best view.

Week-Long Itinerary for Délı̨nę

If you have a week to spend in Délı̨nę, here is an itinerary that will help you experience everything the town has to offer:

Day Activities
1 Arrive and settle into your accommodations; take a walking tour of the town and visit the Délı̨nę Heritage Centre
2 Take a guided tour of the Mackenzie River and visit Jigging Hill
3 Go fishing on Great Bear Lake and try to catch a trophy-size lake trout
4 Take a hike on Camp Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake
5 Explore the Tsiigehtchic Road Trail and see if you can spot any wildlife
6 Take a cultural tour of the town and learn more about the Sahtu Dene and Métis peoples
7 Watch the Northern Lights and take a guided photography tour to capture the moment.

Food and Drink Scene of Délı̨nę

Délı̨nę’s food and drink scene is focused on local tastes and traditions. Visitors can try traditional dishes, unique local beverages and more.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Whitefish: The local fish is a staple in Délı̨nę’s cuisine and is usually cooked in a wood-fired oven for a unique flavor.
  • Bannock: This traditional bread is a staple in indigenous cuisine and is often served with meals.
  • Caribou meat: Visitors can try caribou in a variety of dishes, from stews to sausages.

Local Beverages

  • Arctic Ice Tea: This tea is made from locally harvested Labrador tea and is a refreshing way to experience Northern Canada.
  • Cranberry Juice: This juice is made from local cranberries and is a great way to experience the flavors of the region.

Where to Stay in Délı̨nę: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Délı̨nę offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from hotels to guesthouses. These are a few of the best options:

  • North-Wright Airways Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located close to the airport and offers comfortable rooms for a reasonable price.
  • Bear Creek Lodge: This lodge is located on the shore of Great Bear Lake and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding forest.
  • Arctic Chalet: This chalet is located in the heart of Délı̨nę and offers comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Délı̨nę: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Délı̨nę can purchase a variety of souvenirs and locally-made products to bring home as a reminder of their trip. These are a few of the best options:

  • Indigenous art: Visitors can purchase traditional Sahtu Dene and Métis art, including carvings and paintings.
  • Handmade clothing: Visitors can purchase handmade clothing made from traditional materials such as moosehide and beaver fur.
  • Local jams and jellies: Visitors can purchase locally made jams and jellies featuring wild berries such as cranberries and blueberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Délı̨nę

Délı̨nę is a town with a rich indigenous heritage, and visitors should be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

  • The Sahtu Dene and Métis peoples are the traditional owners of the land, and visitors should be respectful of their customs and traditions.
  • Visitors should ask permission before taking photos of any cultural sites or events.
  • Alcohol is prohibited in Délı̨nę, and visitors should adhere to this local custom.

Best Time to Visit Délı̨nę

The best time to visit Délı̨nę is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild, and visitors can enjoy all of the town’s outdoor activities. However, visitors who want to see the Northern Lights should plan their trip for the winter months when the skies are clearer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Délı̨nę

Here are a few important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Délı̨nę:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Be open to trying new foods and experiences.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of cultural events or sites without permission.
  • Bring alcohol into the town.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Délı̨nę is a safe destination for visitors, but it is important to take proper precautions when exploring the outdoors. Here are a few important tips:

Safety in Délı̨nę

  • Be aware of wildlife such as bears and moose and take appropriate precautions.
  • Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water.
  • Take proper precautions when hiking, including carrying bear spray and a first aid kit.

Health in Délı̨nę

  • Visitors should bring any necessary medications with them and ensure that they have a current tetanus shot.
  • Visitors should be aware of the risks of exposure to cold temperatures and take appropriate precautions.

Getting to Délı̨nę: Transportation Options and Logistics

Délı̨nę is a remote town, but there are a few options for getting there. Here are a few transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

  • By air: Visitors can fly into Délı̨nę Airport from Yellowknife, Norman Wells, and Fort Good Hope.
  • By road: Visitors can also reach Délı̨nę by driving the 186 km on the winter ice road connecting Délı̨nę to Mackenzie River.
  • By boat: Visitors can arrive in Délı̨nę via a cruise or boat tour adventure.

Airports Near Délı̨nę

  • Délı̨nę Airport (YZF)

Bus Stations Near Délı̨nę

  • There are no bus stations near Délı̨nę.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also access Délı̨nę through charter flights, helicopters, and snowmobiles.

How to Get Around in Délı̨nę

Walking is the best way to get around Délı̨nę, but visitors can also rent bikes from local shops and take taxis to reach more distant destinations.

Where to Go Next from Délı̨nę: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Délı̨nę is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding wilderness of Northern Canada. These are a few destinations and excursions that are within reach:

  • The Western Arctic: Visitors can explore the other towns and attractions of the Northwest Territories, including Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk, and Aklavik.
  • The Yukon: The Yukon River is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, and visitors can explore the historic towns of Dawson City and Whitehorse.
  • Alberta: Visitors can explore the Canadian Rockies from Alberta or take a road trip through the province to see all its wonders.

Conclusion

Délı̨nę is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and culture of Northern Canada. Whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, or learning about local traditions, Délı̨nę has something for everyone. With its remote location and rich heritage, Délı̨nę is a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers.