Yellowknife Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and safety tips in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. Use our travel guide to plan your trip!


Yellowknife is the territorial capital of Northwest Territories, located in Northern Canada. It’s known for its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, Yellowknife offers a wealth of experiences that will mesmerize you. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, cultural customs, and travel tips to help you plan your trip to Yellowknife.

Introduction to Yellowknife

Yellowknife is nestled on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, surrounded by dense forests, rocky hills, and pristine lakes. It’s a small city of about 20,000 people, but it’s a hub for tourism, mining, and government administration. The city is named after the Yellowknife Dene First Nation, which were early inhabitants of the area and were known for their hunting and trading skills.

List of Places to Visit in Yellowknife

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Yellowknife has a rich cultural history, and there are numerous museums and historical sites that showcase the city’s heritage.

Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre

This museum highlights the natural and cultural history of the Northwest Territories. You’ll find permanent and temporary exhibitions displaying Aboriginal artifacts, photographs, and videos.

Yellowknife Heritage Tours

This tour takes you on a scenic drive around Yellowknife, visiting significant historical sites, landmarks, and buildings. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s past and present.

Somba K’e Park

The park is named for its traditional Dene name, which means “place of the rabbit.” It’s a beautiful green space in the heart of downtown Yellowknife, surrounded by waterfalls, trails, and a babbling creek. You can enjoy a picnic, watch the northern lights, or take a leisurely stroll.

Natural Attractions of Yellowknife: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Yellowknife’s breathtaking nature is what makes it truly unique. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

Aurora Village

Located just outside the city, Aurora Village is a must-visit attraction in Yellowknife. It’s a great place to witness the Northern Lights, with comfortable glass-enclosed teepees and knowledgeable guides.

Cameron Falls

Cameron Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Hidden Lakes Territorial Park. It’s a short hike from the parking lot and offers remarkable views of the falls and surrounding wilderness.

Yellowknife Bay

Yellowknife Bay is a large lake located near downtown. It’s a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and boating. You can rent equipment or join a guided tour.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yellowknife

Yellowknife has a great network of trails suitable for biking, hiking, and running. Here are the best ones to explore:

Frame Lake Trail

This is a great trail for biking, walking, or running around Frame Lake. It’s about 6 km long and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding scenery.

Pilot’s Monument Trail

This trail is a moderate hike up to the top of Pilot’s Monument, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding wilderness.

Niven Trail

This trail connects the downtown area to Old Town. It’s a flat trail suitable for walking, biking, and snowshoeing in the winter.

Best Things to Do in Yellowknife: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in Yellowknife:

Ice Fishing

Yellowknife is famous for its ice fishing opportunities, where you can catch fish like lake trout, arctic grayling, and more. There are many guided tours that can take you out on the ice.

Northern Lights Viewing

As mentioned earlier, Yellowknife is a great place to witness the Northern Lights. There are many tours that can take you to prime locations and give you the best chance to see them.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a traditional activity in the Northern Territories. You can take a tour and experience the thrill of mushing your own sled with a team of sled dogs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yellowknife

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Yellowknife:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Yellowknife, check-in to hotel
Day 2 Northern lights tour in the evening
Day 3 Visit Cameron Falls and Somba K’e Park
Day 4 Visit Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre and take a heritage tour
Day 5 Guided hike to Pilot’s Monument and Frame Lake Trail
Day 6 Ice fishing or dog sledding tour
Day 7 Visit Yellowknife Bay and depart Yellowknife

Food and Drink Scene of Yellowknife

Yellowknife’s cuisine is a mix of traditional Aboriginal dishes and modern Canadian fare. Here are some must-try foods and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Sourdough Bread

Yellowknife is famous for its sourdough bread, which has been a staple since the gold rush of the early 1900s. You can find it in local bakeries and restaurants.

Arctic Char

Arctic Char is a delicious freshwater fish found in the Great Slave Lake. You can try it at any local restaurant.

Local Beverages

Arctic Ice Wine

Made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine, Arctic Ice Wine is a sweet dessert wine that’s unique to the region.

Bluenose

Bluenose is a locally brewed beer made with malted barley, flaked oats, and Amarillo hops. It’s a refreshing and tasty beer to try during your visit.

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

Yellowknife has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury Hotels

Chateau Nova Yellowknife

This hotel is well-located near downtown Yellowknife and offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant.

Explorer Hotel

Located near Yellowknife Airport, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center. It’s a good option for business travelers or those looking for a luxurious stay.

Budget Accommodations

Northern Lites Motel

This motel provides budget-friendly rooms, free breakfast, and good amenities, including free Wi-Fi and parking. It’s located near downtown Yellowknife.

Hostelling International – Yellowknife

This hostel is a great choice if you’re looking for a budget stay. It offers dorm and private rooms, a shared kitchen, lounge, and free Wi-Fi.

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

Yellowknife has many great souvenirs and local products to take home with you. Some popular items include:

Northern Apparel

Yellowknife is known for its cold winters, so there are many shops selling winter gear, like parkas, mittens, and hats.

Northern Arts and Crafts

There are many talented artists in Yellowknife who make traditional Aboriginal arts and crafts, such as handmade jewelry, sculptures, and clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Yellowknife

Yellowknife is a diverse community that blends traditional Aboriginal, Canadian, and modern cultures. Here are some customs and cultural practices to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect the traditional lands of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation and Inuit communities
  • Learn about the local history and culture through museums, tours, and talks
  • Try local foods and beverages to experience the unique tastes of the region
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and respect the environment

Best Time to Visit Yellowknife

Yellowknife has a subarctic climate, with long cold winters and short mild summers. The best time to visit is during the summer months of May to September, when the weather is more comfortable and there are more outdoor activities available. If you want to witness the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is during the winter months of November to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yellowknife

Do:

  • Visit atttractions like Aurora Village, Cameron Falls, and Yellowknife Bay
  • Try traditional foods like sourdough bread and Arctic Char
  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and bring warm clothing

Don’t:

  • Engage in any activities that harm the environment or wildlife
  • Disrespect traditional lands or cultural practices
  • Litter or pollute the natural environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Yellowknife

Yellowknife is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any city, take precautions such as:

  • Stay in well-lit areas at night
  • Lock your car and hotel room
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Health in Yellowknife

Yellowknife has good health facilities, including Yellowknife Health Centre and Stanton Territorial Hospital. However, be prepared for long wait times and limited resources, especially during the winter months.

Getting to Yellowknife: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yellowknife

Yellowknife Airport is the main airport for the Northwest Territories. It receives regular flights from major Canadian cities, like Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa, and Vancouver.

Bus Stations Near Yellowknife

There are no bus stations near Yellowknife, but Greyhound buses operate in some nearby towns.

Other Options

You can also drive to Yellowknife via the Mackenzie Highway, which connects northern Alberta to the Northwest Territories.

How to Get Around in Yellowknife

Yellowknife is a small city and you can easily get around on foot or by bike. Alternatively, you can use the local taxi service, public transit, rental car, or join a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Yellowknife: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the Northwest Territories, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Fort Providence: A small town on the Mackenzie Highway with traditional arts and crafts and scenic views.
  • Inuvik: A remote town north of the Arctic Circle, with unique culture and traditions.
  • Nahanni National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning landscapes, including Virginia Falls.

Conclusion

Yellowknife is a true gem of Northern Canada, rich in culture and natural beauty. Whether you come to see the Northern Lights, adventure into the wilderness, or explore the local culture and history, Yellowknife will offer you an unforgettable experience. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make your visit to Yellowknife a memorable one.

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