If you’re looking for a remote, untouched wilderness, Ivvavik National Park is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. Located in northern Yukon, this stunning Arctic park offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an adventure unlike any other.
Unlike most national parks, Ivvavik has no roads, very few visitors, and vast, open landscapes. It remains one of the most pristine natural areas in North America. Whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or thrill-seeking adventurer, Ivvavik National Park promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Table of Contents
1. Where Is Ivvavik National Park?
Ivvavik National Park is located in the far northern part of Yukon, Canada, near the Beaufort Sea and the Arctic Ocean. It borders Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, making it part of a vast, untouched Arctic ecosystem.
Because of its remote location, Ivvavik is only accessible by chartered plane from Inuvik, Northwest Territories. This makes it one of the least-visited national parks in Canada, adding to its exclusivity and sense of adventure.
Did You Know? Ivvavik means “a place for giving birth” in the Inuvialuktun language. The park is named this way because it serves as a vital calving ground for the Porcupine caribou herd.
2. The Unique Landscape of Ivvavik National Park
Ivvavik’s landscape is like no other national park in Canada. It is shaped by the Firth River, one of the most pristine, free-flowing rivers in North America.
What Makes Ivvavik’s Landscape Special?
- Rolling tundra – Vast, open Arctic grasslands stretch for miles.
- Towering mountains – The British Mountains create a dramatic skyline.
- Crystal-clear rivers – The Firth River is a top destination for rafting.
- Endless Arctic skies – Experience the Midnight Sun in summer and Northern Lights in fall.
Because the park has no permanent roads or buildings, visitors experience true Arctic wilderness in its purest form.
3. Incredible Wildlife in Ivvavik National Park
One of the biggest highlights of Ivvavik National Park is its rich Arctic wildlife. The park is home to a variety of unique animals, including some you won’t find anywhere else in Canada.
Ivvavik National Park Animals: What You Can See
- Porcupine Caribou – One of the largest caribou herds in North America migrates through the park.
- Grizzly Bears – These powerful predators roam the tundra and mountains.
- Arctic Wolves – Rare but occasionally spotted in the wilderness.
- Red and Arctic Foxes – Look for these clever hunters in the open tundra.
- Golden Eagles & Peregrine Falcons – Ivvavik is a great place for birdwatching.
- Arctic Char & Grayling – Found in the clear waters of the Firth River.
In addition to these, muskoxen, Dall sheep, and even polar bears can sometimes be seen in the park’s most remote areas.
Tip: The best time to see wildlife is in spring and summer, when the animals are most active.
4. Best Things to Do in Ivvavik National Park
Rafting the Firth River
One of the most unique experiences in Ivvavik is rafting down the Firth River. This multi-day adventure takes you through breathtaking canyons, rapids, and untouched wilderness.
Hiking & Camping
Ivvavik has some of the best backcountry hiking in Canada. However, since the park is completely remote, all hiking and camping trips must be well-planned and self-sufficient.
Popular hikes include:
- Halfway to Heaven Trail – A challenging but rewarding trek through the British Mountains.
- Imniarvik Base Camp Hikes – Day hikes from the Imniarvik fly-in wilderness camp.
Wildlife Viewing & Photography
With no roads and no crowds, Ivvavik is a paradise for wildlife photographers and nature lovers. The vast landscapes and Arctic animals provide incredible photography opportunities.
Experiencing the Midnight Sun & Northern Lights
In June and July, the Midnight Sun keeps the sky bright for 24 hours a day. Later in the year, you can see the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.
5. How to Get to Ivvavik National Park
Because of its remote Arctic location, reaching Ivvavik National Park requires careful planning and coordination. The journey begins with a flight to Inuvik, Northwest Territories, as there are no roads leading directly to the park. Most travelers fly into Inuvik from major cities like Edmonton or Yellowknife, as it serves as the primary gateway to Ivvavik.
Once in Inuvik, visitors must take a chartered flight to the park. Parks Canada offers exclusive fly-in trips that land at Imniarvik Base Camp, the main access point within Ivvavik. Since there are no permanent roads or infrastructure, flying is the only way to enter the park.
After arriving at Ivvavik, visitors can choose to join a guided tour or embark on a self-sufficient backcountry adventure. Most travelers camp or stay at Imniarvik Base Camp, which provides basic facilities while still offering an authentic wilderness experience. Since Ivvavik is one of Canada’s most isolated national parks, planning ahead is essential. All trips must be booked in advance through Parks Canada to ensure proper permits and access.
6. When Is the Best Time to Visit Ivvavik National Park?
Because Ivvavik is in the Arctic, it has short summers and long, harsh winters.
Best Times to Visit
- June–July (Midnight Sun) – 24-hour daylight, active wildlife, and great hiking.
- August–September (Northern Lights) – Cooler weather and chances to see the Aurora Borealis.
- October–May (Winter) – Extremely cold, with limited access.
Tip: Summer is the best time to visit because of the long daylight hours and better weather.
Final Thoughts
Ivvavik National Park is one of Canada’s most untouched wilderness destinations, offering a true Arctic adventure. With no roads or crowds, it provides pristine landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters, including caribou, grizzly bears, and Arctic foxes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting the Firth River, and witnessing the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is perfect for those seeking solitude, adventure, and raw natural beauty.
Ready for an adventure? Start planning your trip to Ivvavik National Park today!