National Parks and National Historic Sites of Canada in Nunavut

Welcome

© Parcs Canada

So Much To See and Do

Dare to explore where relatively few visitors trek each year – to the far reaches of Canada’s arctic. Discover the protected ecosystems of the rugged north, and celebrate the establishment of some of the newest national parks in Canada.

The four national parks in Nunavut - Auyuittuq, Quttinirpaaq, Sirmilik and Ukkusiksalik - are among the most remote and northerly parks in the world.

The high arctic is THE choice for the truly adventurous. Quttinirpaaq National Park on Ellesmere Island can boast of being on “Top of the World”, as it encompasses one of the most northern points of land on our planet. The visitor season is brief but as Canada’s second largest National Park the choices for unique experiences abound.

Jagged mountains and enormous glaciers characterize Auyuittuq National Park, located on Baffin Island. The park offers world-famous opportunities for winter ski touring and ski mountaineering in a spectacular but unforgiving wilderness. The remote Akshayak Pass, traversed by Inuit for hundreds of years, is a prime destination for summer backpacking.

View icebergs, unexpected geological formations, sea ice, and sea birds at Sirmilik National Park on northern Baffin Island. Fifty bird species - including thick-billed murres and black-legged kittiwakes - live within the Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary and the sea bird colony at Baillarge Bay as well as elsewhere in the park. From bird watching to botany, the natural and cultural features of Sirmilik are sure to delight those willing to brave the rugged conditions of the region.

High densities of polar bears, an array of other wild life such as caribou, muskox, wolf, seal, golden eagle and peregrine falcon along with a reversing waterfall created by tidal action, await visitors in Ukkusiksalik National Park.

Inuit have forged a life in these harsh but delicate landscapes for thousands of years. Remnants of ancient cultures can be seen in all of these parks - from the Independence I and II cultures of Quttinirpaaq National Park to the Thule cultures in Auyuittuq National Park. Visitors may see tent rings, kayak stands, inuksuit, fox traps or other evidence
of ancient cultures.

© Parks Canada

Experience the warmth and hospitality of modern-day Inuit in the remote communities of Pangnirtung, Qikiqtarjuaq, Pond Inlet, Arctic Bay, Resolute Bay, Grise Ford, Repulse Bay, Baker Lake, Chesterfield Inlet, Coral Harbour or Rankin Inlet. Iqaluit is the starting point for access to Auyuittuq and Sirmilik and Quttinirpaaq national parks, as well as to their neighbouring communities. Ukkusiksalik can be accessed from Winnipeg, Rankin Inlet or Baker Lake.

Activities Information

Activities in the remote arctic parks revolve around backcountry adventure, with unique opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, boating, camping, wildlife viewing, kayaking, ski touring, and ski mountaineering. However, due to the remoteness of these parks and the inherent dangers of the arctic terrain, potential visitors should have strong skills in wilderness travel, survival and first aid unless travelling with an experienced and licenced guide.

Wildlife Viewing

Nothing can match the excitement of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Muskox, arctic fox, polar bear, arctic wolf, narwhal, beluga and bowhead whale are but a few of the mammal species that may be seen. Use caution and give wildlife the space and respect they deserve.

• Maintain a safe distance from all large animals. Be aware that large animals such as muskox and walrus may be aggressive.
• Please read the pamphlet “Safety in Polar Bear Country ” and view the DVD “Polar Bears:A Guide to Safety” for more information. These are available from the Parks Canada offices in Nunavut and the pamphlet can be read on our website: www.pc.gc.ca

Weather

The polar marine climate is characterized by long, cold, dark winters, with temperatures as low as -55 ºC. Summers are short and cool. Although you will be treated to endless daylight between May and August, the sun is totally absent between November and February in the high arctic parks and very diminished in the more southern ones. July is usually the warmest month with an average high of 11ºC.
Weather in the arctic is extremely changeable, with high winds, storms, and whiteout conditions possible at any time of the year. Travel is impossible during spring break-up and fall freeze-up. Visitors must be well prepared to deal with harsh weather - including travel delays due to weather - at any time of the year.

For Your Convenience

Careful planning is required as some supplies and services may be limited or unavailable in some northern communities. Please contact the Parks Canada office listed for each park or contact the Field Unit office in Iqaluit for a complete package of pre-trip planning information.

Cruise Ships

Although icebreaker expedition size cruise ships have been coming to Nunavut for years, more ships with more cruise options are visiting more communities now. Visits to both national parks and national historic sites are included in the sailing schedules. Visitors get day hikes, see marine wildlife, take part in cultural events and visit archaeological sites all from their floating staterooms.

Park and Site Regulations and Guidelines

Park and site regulations are developed to protect these special places, and ensure you have a memorable visit.

• A park use permit is required for day use and overnight stays in the backcountry. And all of Nunavut’s parks are considered backcountry. Visitors MUST participate in an orientation and registration session and pay their fees prior to departing for any of the national parks in Nunavut. De-registration is mandatory at the end of the trip.
• Choose routes on durable terrain. Avoid vegetated and soft soil areas as these areas are easily damaged by foot traffic.
• Fires are prohibited. Camp stoves must be used.
• Firearms are prohibited.
• Pack out all litter, including cigarette butts.
• Leave undisturbed any natural or cultural objects.
• Do not disturb wildlife.
• Fishing may be available in some of the National Parks in Nunavut but is currently under discussion as part of the management planning process. Check in advance with the park you intend to visit about the status of fishing. If fishing is permitted, a national park fishing license is required.

Map of National Parks of Canada in Nunavut

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