Travel Guide for Visiting Yellowknife, NWT

Yellowknife is the capital city of the Northwest Territories, Canada, situated on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake — the 10th largest lake in the world! Located just south of the Arctic Circle, this remote yet vibrant city is the beating heart of the NWT.

Yellowknife is renowned for its crystal-clear skies, dramatic northern landscapes, Indigenous culture, and welcoming people. The city is home to a close-knit community of around 20,000 residents and is affectionately known as the “Diamond Capital of North America,” thanks to three nearby diamond mines.

While the Aurora Borealis grabs international headlines — and rightfully so — Yellowknife offers so much more. From dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing in the winter to hiking, fishing, and experiencing the midnight sun in summer, it’s a year-round destination filled with unforgettable experiences.

Fun fact: Yellowknife is also home to Ice Road Truckers, the iconic reality TV series showcasing northern resilience and remote road life.

 

Travelling to Yellowknife

By Air

Air travel is the most comfortable and efficient way to reach Yellowknife. The city is well connected year-round by flights from major Canadian hubs, often with direct or one-stop service.

Flight routes include:

• Edmonton (YEG) → Yellowknife (YZF)
• Calgary (YYC) → Yellowknife (YZF)
• Vancouver (YVR) → Yellowknife (YZF)

Airlines operate throughout the year, but winter flights (December to March) can fill up quickly during Aurora season — book early!

By Road

Driving to Yellowknife is a scenic and rewarding adventure for road trip lovers. However, road travel in winter is not recommended unless you are fully prepared. Temperatures can plummet below –40°C, and remote stretches of highway can pose challenges in case of a breakdown or emergency.

If you plan a drive in autumn, you’ll enjoy some of the most stunning fall colors Canada has to offer. The air is crisp, the forests glow with red and gold, and the journey becomes an experience of its own. The driving route from Edmonton to Yellowknife is summarized as follows: Edmonton → High Level → Peace River → Enterprise (NT) → Deh Cho Bridge (Big River Gas Station) → Yellowknife

Before setting out, ensure your vehicle is winterized and mechanically sound, carry emergency gear, and check weather and road reports.

 

Things to Do in Yellowknife

Yellowknife is not just a winter city. Every season offers something unique — and often, magical.

In Winter (Nov – Apr)

• Aurora Viewing: With over 240 clear nights annually, Yellowknife is one of the most reliable places to see the Northern Lights. Join our Aurora Viewing Tour for a cultural and immersive aurora viewing experience.
• Dog Sledding: Glide across snow-covered trails behind a team of eager huskies.
• Snowmobiling & Ice Fishing: Rent gear and head out for adventure on frozen lakes and trails.

In Summer (May – Aug)

• Boating & Pike Fishing: Great Slave Lake offers excellent opportunities.
• Bird Watching & Hiking: Walk the trails, spot wildlife, and breathe the freshest northern air.
• Midnight Sun: Experience long, sunlit days perfect for sightseeing or just enjoying nature around the clock.

Year-Round Attractions

• Cultural Experiences with the Indigenous People: Join B-Dene Adventure’s Dene Cultural Tour to experience the Indigenous culture and connect yourself with the beautiful Northern heritage. Each experience is led by Yellowknives Dene hosts, offering authentic storytelling and land-based traditions.
• City Tours: Explore key historical sites and scenic points around Yellowknife. Join our spectacular Yellowknife City Tour for a great experience.
• Camp Rentals & Wildlife Monitoring: Go off-grid in comfort or assist with land-based wildlife work.

 

Places of Interest Around Yellowknife

Explore the city’s cultural gems, nature trails, and scenic landmarks:

• Pilot’s Monument (Old Town): Panoramic views of Yellowknife and Great Slave Lake
• Rotary Park (Old Town): Access point for the famous ice road in winter
• Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre: Learn about Northern history, culture, and art
• Visitor Information Centre: Great first stop for maps and local advice
• NWT Diamond Centre: Discover the story behind Yellowknife’s diamond legacy
• Somba K’e Civic Plaza (City Hall): Relax in the heart of the city
• Nature’s North Wildlife Gallery: Small but worth a visit
• Cameron Falls Trail: A beautiful 4 km summer hike through the boreal forest

Please Note: Cameron Falls is not suitable for winter hikes due to ice and safety risks. It is only safe to go there in the Summer and Autumn seasons.

 

Where to Eat in Yellowknife

Food is an essential part of experiencing a new place, and Yellowknife offers a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. Try something new for every meal — you’ll find cozy cafes, local fish specialties, and international flavors.

Old Town

• Bullock’s Bistro – iconic for fresh Great Slave Lake fish
• Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery – craft beer and comfort food
• Flamecraft Grill N Chill

Downtown

• Bluebell Eatery
• Sushi North
• Taste of Saigon
• The Mantle
• Korea House
• Red Apple
• Vietnamese Noodle House
• Sushi Cafe
• Subway, Tim Hortons, McDonald’s
• Quarry Restaurant (Chateau Nova)
• Cai’s Kitchen (Nova Inn)
• Trader’s Grill (Explorer Hotel)

Uptown

• Copper House – fine dining and lake views
• KFC, Starbucks, Fatburger, Subway, Tim Hortons, Quiznos

 

Grocery & Pharmacy Stores (for essential supplies):

• Independent Grocers (Downtown and Uptown)
• Shoppers Drug Mart (Downtown)
• Walmart (Uptown)

 

Need Help With Planning Your Trip?

Best Time to Visit is from around December – April for the Aurora viewing season, and from around May – July for the bright summer season when we typically have the midnight-sun views.

What to Pack: Layered clothing, winter boots (for cold months), sunscreen (for summer), binoculars, and a good camera.

Whether you’re looking for things to do in Yellowknife or great advice on preparing for your travel, B-Dene Adventures is here to help you make the most of your Yellowknife journey. Come experience Yellowknife, embrace the North, and live the adventure.

📞 Call us: (867) 444-0451
📧 Email: admin@bdene.com
🌐 Visit: www.bdene.com

Embark on your unforgettable journey to Yellowknife today!