EvanYellowknife, the capital and the only city in Canada’s Northwest Territories. It is best known for its prime location for viewing the Northern Lights.
Yellowknife was founded in the 1930s during the gold rush, it has since become a hub for adventure tourism, mining, and cultural experiences.
How to Get to Yellowknife
By Flight
Yellowknife Airport (YZF) is the primary gateway to the city. There are direct flights from major Canadian cities like Edmonton, Vancouver, and Calgary to Yellowknife. Airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Canadian North operate flights year-round.
By Car
For those seeking an adventurous road trip, Yellowknife is accessible via the Mackenzie Highway from Alberta, followed by the Yellowknife Highway (Highway 3). The drive offers scenic views but can be challenging in winter due to icy conditions.
How to Get Around Yellowknife
Local Tours
Many tour operators provide guided experiences, including aurora viewing and city tours. They include transportation from downtown hotels.
Taxi Services
Taxis, such as Aurora Taxi, provide reliable service throughout the compact city but can be expensive. It is best for short distances.
Car Rental
Ideal for travelers wanting flexibility, especially for winter road trips. Car rental in yellowknife is recommended for aurora hunting.
Public Bus
YKTransit operates three regular bus routes and one express service within the city, providing reliable public transportation.
Things to Do in Yellowknife
Most visitors would stay for a few days to maximize the chance of seeing Northern Lights. You may wonder what to do in Yellowknife Canada, let’s learn how to spend your days in Yellowknife.
Aurora Viewing
Yellowknife is renowned for its spectacular displays of the Aurora Borealis. Its location under the auroral oval and clear winter skies make it one of the best places globally to observe Northern Lights. From late August to April, visitors can experience vibrant light shows dancing across the sky.
Best Viewing Locations
Aurora Village
Located 25 minutes from downtown, this purpose-built aurora viewing facility offers heated traditional teepees and reclining chairs specifically designed for comfortable northern lights observation. The village’s location away from city lights provides exceptional darkness for optimal viewing.
Prelude Lake
About 30 km east of downtown on the Ingraham Trail, this territorial park offers unobstructed northern horizons and the beautiful backdrop of frozen lake ice in winter, creating perfect reflections for the dancing lights.
Great Slave Lake Ice Road
During winter months when the lake freezes solid, driving onto the ice road provides an otherworldly experience of watching auroras from the middle of a vast frozen expanse. The absolute darkness and 360-degree views make this a photographer’s dream location.
Canada Yellowknife Aurora Tours
Yellowknife is one of the world’s best locations for aurora borealis (Northern Lights) viewing due to its clear skies, low light pollution, and high latitude. Various tour operators provide different types of aurora viewing experiences, ranging from guided tours with photography services to comfortable viewing lodges.
| Tour Name | Inclusions | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora Village Yellowknife Canada | Heated teepees, hot drinks, transportation | Those looking for a comfortable and premium aurora experience | $$$ |
| Beck’s Kennels Aurora Tours | Warm shelter, local guides, transportation | Budget-friendly option with local experience | $$ |
| North Star Adventures | Small group tour, photography assistance | Travelers who want a small, personalized group experience | $$$ |
| Bucket List Tours | 360-degree open views, professional photos included | Those wanting clear, unobstructed views | $$$ |
Which Aurora Tour Should You Choose?
- If you want luxury & comfort: Aurora Village offers heated teepees, guided tour, and a relaxing experience.
- If you’re on a budget: Beck’s Kennels offers affordable yet enjoyable aurora experience.
- If you want professional photography: North Star Adventures helps you capture stunning aurora shots.
- If you want an open 360° view: Bucket List Tours have wide-open space for the best visibility.
Practical Aurora Tips
Timing: The lights are typically most active between 10 PM and 2 AM, prepare to stay out for 4 to 5 hours chasing aurora
Season: September/October and February/March offer ideal combinations of dark skies and milder temperatures
Photography: Bring a tripod, remote shutter release, fast wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), use long exposure for 10-20 seconds
Clothing: Extreme cold-weather gear is essential during winter viewing, temperatures can plunge below -40°C
Patience: Aurora activity fluctuates based on solar activity; plan for multiple viewing nights
Outdoor Adventures in Yellowknife
Apart from aurora viewing, there’s many outdoor activities to do, both in Summer and Winter.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a thrilling way to experience Yellowknife’s winter wilderness. You’ll ride through snowy trails pulled by a team of huskies, led by experienced mushers who share insights into this traditional form of transportation. Some tours allow you to drive the sled yourself, while others offer a guided ride.
| Tour Operator | Experience Type | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beck’s Kennels | Hands-on sled driving & guided tours | 1-3 hours | $$ |
| Enodah Kennel | Remote, self-drive dog sledding | 1-3 hours | $$$ |
Ice Fishing
Yellowknife’s frozen lakes provide the perfect setting for ice fishing, where you can catch northern pike, lake trout, or whitefish. Many tours include a heated tent, hot drinks, and even a fresh fish meal cooked on-site.
| Tour Operator | Includes | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Lights Tours | Ice fishing with Indigenous storytelling | Those wanting cultural insight | $$$ |
| Great Slave Lake Fishing Tours | Professional fishing experience | Serious anglers | $$$$ |
Snowmobiling
Speed across frozen lakes and snow-covered trails on a snowmobile adventure. This is one of the most exciting ways to explore Yellowknife’s winter landscape.
| Tour Operator | Route | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Lights Tours | Ice road & frozen lake experience | Adventure seekers | $$ |
| Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures | Scenic snowmobile ride | Those looking for a scenic experience | $$$ |
Ice Road Driving
The Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road—the world’s longest heavy-haul ice highway—begins operation each January, extending 400 km north of Yellowknife across frozen lakes. While the full road serves diamond mines and is restricted to commercial traffic, visitors can safely experience the first 70 km, witnessing this engineering marvel firsthand.
Fishing
During the summer, Great Slave Lake becomes a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. You can catch trout, pike, and walleye in one of the largest lakes in North America.
Best tour for fishing trips: Great Slave Lake Fishing Tours offers guided excursions with all the necessary equipment.
Yellowknife Outdoor Adventure also offers pike fishing day tours.
Hiking
Yellowknife and surrounding areas are a naturalist’s playground, though you’ll want to stick to the trails in this remote region. It’s not uncommon to encounter black bears.
Visit the Northern Frontier Visitors Centre in the Yellowknife Airport for a trail map and practical advice on which of the many hiking trails might best suit your level of physical activity.
There are several beautiful trails around Yellowknife.
- Cameron Falls Trail – A moderate 1-hour hike to a scenic waterfall.
- Frame Lake Trail – A paved urban trail with city and lake views.
- Prosperous Lake Territorial Park – Offers remote hiking with stunning views.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Paddle across the clear waters of Yellowknife Bay or explore hidden lakes. You can rent a canoe or kayak at Narwal Northern Adventures for self-guided trips.
- Yellowknife Bay: Easy day trips from the city with numerous small islands to explore
- East Arm: More remote multi-day expeditions through dramatic cliffs and crystal waters
- Prelude Lake Territorial Park: Protected paddling routes with established campsites
Float Plane Sightseeing
Experience breathtaking aerial views of Yellowknife and the Great Slave Lake. Book a floatplane tour with Ahmic Air or Air Tindi to see the city from above.
Midnight Golf
The Yellowknife Golf Club offers a unique 18-hole experience where tee times are available nearly around the clock during peak summer. Playing a midnight round under golden sunlight is a quintessential northern experience that draws golfers from around the world.
Cultural Experiences in Yellowknife
You can also do a city tour and visit different cultural attractions.
Experience different Festivals in Yellowknife
- Snowking Winter Festival (March)
Held every March, the Snowking Winter Festival is a unique celebration featuring a massive snow castle constructed on the frozen Yellowknife Bay. The castle hosts a month-long series of events, including concerts, art exhibitions, children’s theater, and more. The festival showcases the community’s creativity and resilience, making it a must-visit for winter travelers. - Long John Jamboree (March)
Embracing winter’s final weeks, this festival includes ice carving competitions, snowmobile races, and the infamous “Burn on the Bay” fire sculpture. - Folk on the Rocks (July)
This music festival brings performers from across Canada to an outdoor lakeside venue under the midnight sun, blending national acts with northern Indigenous performers. - Raven Mad Daze (June)
A lively street festival with music and entertainment. - Dead North Film Festival (February)
The world’s only circumpolar horror and science fiction film festival showcases northern filmmaking talent in appropriately dark winter conditions.
Yellowknife City Tour
A guided city tour covers major landmarks like:
Yellowknife Town Sign – A great spot for photos and a must-visit landmark.
Bristol Monument – A tribute to the bush pilots who shaped the region.
Yellowknife Visitor Centre – Receive Souvenirs, get maps, travel tips, and learn about local attractions.
Old Town – Wander through historic Yellowknife with unique shops and restaurants.
Bush Pilot Monument – Offers panoramic views of Yellowknife and Great Slave Lake.
Visit Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
This museum offers insights into the cultures and history of the Northwest Territories. Exhibits include artifacts from Indigenous communities, historical photographs, and displays on the region’s natural history. The center also houses the NWT Archives, providing a comprehensive look into the area’s past.
Visit Legislative Assembly
Visit the seat of government for the Northwest Territories, featuring beautiful architecture and free guided tours.
Buffalo Airways Hangar
Aviation enthusiasts will love this historic hangar, home to Buffalo Airways, featured in the TV show Ice Pilots NWT.
Visit NWT Diamond and Jewellery Centre
Learn about Yellowknife’s diamond industry and even purchase locally mined diamonds.
Dene Cultural Experience
Engaging with Indigenous communities offers a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. Activities include guided tours, traditional storytelling, and cultural workshops. These experiences provide meaningful connections and insights into the traditions and lifestyles of the Dene and other Indigenous peoples. B. Dene Adventures introduces visitors to Dene traditions, storytelling, and survival skills. A must-do for those interested in Indigenous culture.
Old Town Glassworks Workshop
Old town glassworks is a hands-on glass art workshop where you can create your own souvenir from recycled glass.
Yellowknife Artwalk
Explore local art galleries and public murals, showcasing the creativity of Northern Canadian artists. Follow the art walk map to take yourself on an art walk tour for over 100 pieces of public art around the city.
Arctic Artisan Co-operatives
The Down to Earth Gallery and Old Town’s numerous art studios showcase northern Indigenous artwork, including soapstone carvings, birchbark crafts, and distinctive prints. Many galleries offer opportunities to meet artists and learn about how northern landscapes and traditions influence their creative expressions. Support local artisans by visiting co-op stores featuring handmade crafts, sculptures, and traditional clothing.
Best Places to Eat in Yellowknife
What to Try:
- Bison Burgers – A northern specialty at Wildcat Café.
- Fresh Arctic Char – A must-try dish at Bullock’s Bistro.
- Craft Beer – Try locally brewed beer at The Woodyard Brewhouse.
Yellowknife offers diverse dining options, from local northern cuisine to international flavors. Here’s a closer look at some of the best restaurants:
Wildcat Café
Address: 3507 Wiley Rd, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2L5
Specialty: Traditional northern cuisine (bison, fish, Arctic char)
Atmosphere: Cozy, historical log cabin
Price Range: $$
Bullock’s Bistro
Address: 3534 Weaver Dr, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2J6
Specialty: Fresh fish & chips (locally caught)
Atmosphere: Casual, rustic
Price Range: $$
The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery
Address: 3905 Franklin Ave, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2S6
Specialty: Local craft beer, burgers, poutine
Atmosphere: Lively, modern pub
Price Range: $$
Zehabesha Traditional Ethiopian Food
Address: 5030 50 St, Yellowknife, NT X1A 3R8
Specialty: Authentic Ethiopian cuisine
Atmosphere: Warm, cultural
Price Range: $
Different Tours in Yellowknife
Beyond aurora viewing, there are various tours in Yellowknife for adventure seekers, cultural explorers, and nature lovers. You can check over these travel packages and see if any suit you best.
| Tour Company | Type of Tour | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Star Adventures | Aurora viewing & cultural tours | Travelers wanting a full adventure package | $$$ |
| Beck’s Kennels | Dog sledding, aurora tours | Dog lovers, outdoor adventurers | $$ |
| Aurora Village | Luxury aurora & outdoor experiences | Those seeking a comfortable, guided experience | $$$ |
| Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures | Fishing, canoeing, wildlife tours | Nature lovers, fishing enthusiasts | $$ |
| Bucket List Tours | Ice road driving, snowmobiling, winter road trips | Adventurous travelers looking for a thrill | $$ |
| Great Slave Lake Fishing Tours | Ice fishing, summer fishing | Fishing enthusiasts | $$ |
Which Tour to Choose?
- If you love dog sledding: Beck’s Kennels.
- If you want a cultural & adventure package: North Star Adventures.
- If you prefer comfort & luxury: Aurora Village.
- If you enjoy outdoor activities (fishing, canoeing): Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures.
- If you want an exciting winter drive: Bucket List Tours.
Where to Stay in Yellowknife
Yellowknife is a small town with not much accommodations, you may check out our guide to find the most suitable place to stay.
Chateau Nova Yellowknife
Address: 4571 48 St, Yellowknife, NT X1A 0E2
Price Range: $$$
Features: Full-service hotel, fitness center, steam room, sauna, on-site restaurant and lounge, pet-friendly
Chateau Nova Yellowknife is a modern, full-service hotel located in the northeast area of downtown, approximately 5 km from the airport. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, steam room, sauna, and the Quarry Restaurant and Lounge. The hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere, great amenities, and warm customer service.
The Explorer Hotel
Address: 4825 49th Ave, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2R3
Price Range: $$$
Features: Full-service 4-star hotel, 259 guest rooms, on-site restaurant and bar, free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle
The Explorer Hotel is the leading full-service 4-star hotel in Canada’s North, offering 259 guest rooms and a variety of contemporary dining options. Located just a short distance from the airport, the hotel provides free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant and bar, and an airport shuttle service.
Nova Inn Yellowknife
Address: 4401 Franklin Ave 3rd Floor, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2L9
Price Range: $$
Features: Pet-friendly, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, on-site restaurant, fitness center
Nova Inn Yellowknife is a convenient retreat located in the heart of Yellowknife’s business district. Guests can enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers a comfortable stay for both business and leisure travelers.
Yellowknife Downtown Toboggan Hill Retreat
Address: 5502 50A Avenue, Yellowknife, NT X1A 1G3
Price Range: $$
Features: Three-bedroom apartment, fully equipped kitchen, terrace, balcony, free Wi-Fi
Yellowknife Downtown Toboggan Hill Retreat offers a spacious three-bedroom apartment with modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, terrace, and balcony. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property and easy access to nearby attractions.
Lumi in Yellowknife
Address: 4914 44 Street, Yellowknife, NT X1A 1J8
Price Range: $$
Features: Cozy interiors, private rooms, shared kitchen, great aurora views, family-friendly
Lumi in Yellowknife is a charming boutique-style guesthouse designed for cozy stays and stunning aurora sightings. With minimalist Nordic-style interiors and warm lighting, it offers a peaceful escape from the cold outside. Rooms are spacious and well-insulated, and many offer large windows perfect for viewing the Northern Lights. The shared kitchen and common areas make it a great choice for families or travelers who enjoy a more communal environment. It’s located just far enough from downtown to avoid light pollution, yet close enough for convenient access to restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit Yellowknife
November to April
Ideal for viewing the Northern Lights and participating in winter festivals.
Shoulder Seasons: May and September
These months offer fewer crowds and a mix of seasonal experiences. In September, you might still catch the Northern Lights before the heavy snow arrives. May brings thawing landscapes and the return of migratory birds which is ideal for nature lovers.
June to August
If you’re not a fan of freezing temperatures, summer is the perfect time to visit Yellowknife. The Midnight Sun shines brightly, with daylight lasting up to 20 hours per day. This season is perfect for hiking, paddling on Great Slave Lake, fishing, and exploring Yellowknife’s many outdoor festivals and markets. The Folk on the Rocks music festival is a huge summer draw.
Weather in Yellowknife
Yellowknife has a subarctic climate, with extreme winters and mild summers.
In summer, Yellowknife could reach 25°C. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
During shoulder seasons like April, May, September and October, the weather is usually under milder conditions.
In winter, Yellowknife regularly reaches -30°C to -40°C, which is ideal for aurora viewing.
What to Wear in Yellowknife
As we just mentioned, Yellowknife could reach under -30°C in winter, what should we wear in extreme weather?
Thermal socks (may consider double up)
Heat packs (multiple sets for hands, feet, and core)
Check out Extreme Cold Weather Gear to learn more!
Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowknife
- It’s Remote, But Not Inaccessible: Yellowknife may be far north, but it’s a fully functional city with great infrastructure, amenities, and people who are more than used to visitors.
- Cash Isn’t King: Most places accept credit and debit cards. Just ensure you inform your bank you’re traveling to avoid any hiccups.
- Aurora Tips: The best aurora displays often happen after midnight. Dress warmly and be patient—it’s worth it!
- Respect Indigenous Lands and Traditions: Much of the land around Yellowknife is rich in Indigenous culture. Take guided cultural experiences seriously and be respectful during interactions.
- Driving Caution: If you’re driving in winter, make sure your vehicle has proper winter tires, and be familiar with cold-weather vehicle care.
- Language: English is widely spoken, but you may hear Indigenous languages such as Dene. Knowing a few greetings or cultural norms can go a long way.
FAQs
Is Yellowknife worth visiting?
Absolutely. Yellowknife offers an unforgettable experience for chasing the Northern Lights, learning Indigenous culture, or exploring untouched wilderness.
When can you see the Northern Lights in Yellowknife?
The best time is from mid-August to late April, with peak viewing in the darker months of winter.
How cold does it get in Yellowknife?
Winters can be brutally cold, with temperatures dropping below -40°C. But if you dress appropriately, it’s manageable and magical.
What is Yellowknife famous for?
Yellowknife is known for its Northern Lights, rich Indigenous culture, gold rush history, and the unique Snowking Winter Festival.
Can I see wildlife in Yellowknife?
Yes! Expect to see foxes, ravens, and possibly bison and black bears outside the city. Always keep a safe distance.
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