Yellowknife Travel Guide

Yellowknife is the capital city of the Northwest Territories, on the North Arm of Great Slave Lake, on Yellowknife Bay. Yellowknife is the main entry point for visitors to NWT. Many tourists come to experience the Northern climate and traditional lifestyle, and to see the Northern Lights. It is home to about 20,000 people (census, 2021)

Air travel is one of the oldest ways of getting to Yellowknife (the city was founded in the mid-1930s, and space for float planes can still be found at the Old Town docks).

Driving, particularly away from the main highway, may involve long distances without seeing much traffic. Be sure to check the usual summer driving requirements: spare tire, water, etc. In winter, temperatures can drop to -40 °C/°F and colder. Be prepared! Bring a candle lantern for heat, a thermos of hot water, foods such as chocolate or nuts and a heavy blanket, and mitts (not gloves). If stranded, do not leave your vehicle unless forced to. See our page onwinter drivingfor more tips.

Since the wildfire evacuation in August 2023, availability for hotel rooms in Yellowknife has been tight (especially during peak aurora period, i.e. mid-November to early-April, or whenever there are events happening in the city). It is best to reserve a hotel room far in advance.