Exploring Western Canada

Q & A

Growing up in Saskatchewan, what kickstarted your love for snowboarding?

I fell in love with snowboarding simply because I didn’t have access to it all the time.

I was fortunate enough to get time at our local hill, Mission Ridge, but I always wanted more time on the snow. My brother Mark and I would wakeboard all summer and jump on the trampoline doing everything we could to imitate snowboarding. We watched videos and read magazines so we knew there was this whole world out there and we wanted in.

What do you love most about Western Canada?

Great question! How could I pick just one? For me it comes down to a couple of things: the people and the terrain. The people are down to earth and the terrain is simply unmatched. Nowhere else in the world do you have such dynamic landscapes, from the island to the ocean to the coastal mountains, the snowy interior, into the Rockies, and the western Prairies. I’ve spent time in all these locations and each one is so special. I love it.

What are your favourite summer activities in Western Canada?

Get me on the water! I love the lakes in BC — there are so many hikes to mountain lakes.

That’s always a great way to spend the day. You also can’t beat surfing on the island when the temperatures are high. The swell isn’t as strong in the summer but every once in a while it will get a little pulse.

What recreational activities do you recommend for people looking to spend more time outdoors?

I think the most underrated and simplest activity is a walk through the forest. I know it’s not the wildest thing one can do but there's something grounding about being surrounded by huge trees. It’s an activity that I find helps me put things into perspective. Whenever I need to have a think I’ll go for a trail walk through the forest.

What should be on someone’s bucket list when visiting Western Canada? Fly into Vancouver on a clear spring day. The mountain tops will be snowy and the city will be starting to bloom.

Drive the Sea to Sky highway on a crisp morning. I’ll argue that there isn’t a more scenic drive.

Stand on a beach in Tofino or Ucluelet and watch the sunset.

Visit truenorthliving.ca for Paul Zizka's Q&A.

A FAMILY HIKE IN THE LAKE O'HARA REGION, YOHO NATIONAL PARK. PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL ZIZKA.

PHOTO CREDIT: JOSEPH ROBY

WITH CRAIG MCMORRIS

From the Prairies to the mountains, Canadian professional snowboarder Craig McMorris is sharing his experiences in Western Canada and highlighting activities for your next trip out west.

How One Town Is Your Perfect Base for Exploring Western Canada’s Mountains

There are few things more exhilarating than a visit to the mountains. And when it comes to a Rocky Mountain experience in Canada, it’s all golden — Golden, BC, that is.

Heart of the parks

Nestled comfortably in the Canadian Rockies, Golden is ideally located as a base for the perfect outdoor vacation. Situated at the confluence of the Columbia and Kicking Horse rivers and surrounded by six of Canada’s stunning national parks — Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke — there's a wealth of activities to do in the region. Take your pick of parks to explore or stay long enough to see them all. And just three hours’ drive from Calgary and an

easy and scenic drive from Kelowna or Vancouver, Golden is easily accessible. Come spring, when the skis get put away, the breathtaking mountain landscape around Golden throws off its snowy blanket, revealing iconic hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes, and heritage sites. There’s something for the entire family. You won’t be able to contain the smiles and laughs as you take to the Kicking Horse for some whitewater rafting, navigate the trails on a mountain bike, or get up close and personal with awe-inspiring peaks. And summer days in Golden are warm and long, giving you lots of time to explore the region at your own pace, without feeling rushed.

The golden rules about sustainable tourism

Aside from being at the centre of some of the world’s greatest parks, what makes Golden special is that it’s not a commercialized destination. There's no pretension here. They let the stunning landscape speak for itself. And the golden rule here is sustainable and responsible tourism. This means being pre -

pared, researching your activities, and asking locals for advice on how to have a memorable and safe experience. It also means treading lightly on the environment by staying on trails and while it’s likely you’ll see wildlife, respect their home and don’t feed them.

The Ktunaxa Indigenous peoples have long called the area around Golden home. In the late 1800s, the Canadian Pacific Railway recognized that travellers through Golden would want to stay and explore this incredible landscape. The railway built hotels and attracted professional Swiss guides to lead visitors into the mountains. The marketing slogan at the time was “50 Switzerlands in one.” The mountains that captivated those Swiss guides more than a century ago are still there. If you’re looking for a unique and authentic Canadian experience, Golden is the real deal.

Discover Golden, BC in the Canadian Rockies. A paradise for outdoor adventure, located at the heart of six national parks.

At the Heart of the Parks

Golden Golf Club

We are a Small-Town Club with Big Time Golf. Also offer a 42 site RV Park, full practice facility, Mini-Golf Course, and Restaurant with Patio. 1-250-344-2700 www.golfgolden.com

Golden Snowmobile Rentals

GSR offers THE BEST snowmobile tours & rentals in Golden BC. Voted #1 Riders Choice Award. Come discover our light, dry powder on brand new snowmobiles. 1-250-344-0969 www.goldensnowmobilerentals.com

Glacier Raft Company

Whitewater rafting and scenic float trips on the Kicking Horse River - the #1 Activity in Golden on TripAdvisor. Come live an adventure! 1-877-344-7238 www.GlacierRaft.com

Kicking Horse Culture

The world comes to play in Golden. Free, all-ages, Wednesday evening concerts throughout the summer featuring artists from around the world and close to home. 1-250-344-6186 www.kickinghorseculture.ca

tourismgolden.com tourismgolden.com

Find FSC-certified products online at shopfsc.ca more about FSC and its approach to sustainable forestry at ca.fsc.org This article was sponsored by the Forest Stewardship Council.

A Barrett Photography

Canadians are craving unique and authentic travel experiences close to home. And when you explore your own backyard, you don’t have to worry about ever-changing pandemic-related rules and restrictions for international travel. You just go.

Ken Donohue

PHOTO COURTESY OF A BARRETT PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE BEST

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE BEST

Visit tourismgolden.com to learn more.

This article was sponsored by Tourism Golden

6 Things

Prince George

GO FISH

TASTE LOCAL

You’ll be drawn in by the smell of freshly-roasted coffee, but you’ll delight in local

at the year-round farmers’ market. Sample jellies and jams, and spices crafted by local artisans. During the summer months, you can also wander through the Wilson Square market.

HEAD TO THE PARTY

Check the community events calendar, because chances are there’ll be a festival, seasonal celebration, street market, or outdoor concert in the downtown area. And everyone’s welcome.

THE PERFECT BASECAMP FOR YOUR NORTHERN ADVENTURE:

Why a Visit to Prince George Is a Must

The diverse landscape of Prince George, BC, offers up lush river valleys that carve through towering mountain ranges and pristine forests. To the west is the Pacific coast, teeming with marine life. Go east and the rich earth pops with warm hues in the prairie-like environment. Marvel at the northern lights, and learn of the rich Indigenous culture and ancient history of the traditional lands. Your list of exciting to dos will be long. And Prince George, or PG as it’s commonly known, is the basecamp for exploring the north.

PG is the largest city in British Columbia’s northern region and is perfectly situated for exploration. The province’s longest river, the Fraser, meets the Nechako River here and with daily non-stop flights from Vancouver, and flights from Edmonton and communities across northern BC, getting to PG is easy.

Outdoor adventure. Urban fix. Planning your itinerary will be wildly fun. PG is a city for all seasons and will spoil you for things to do. The bowl, or valley, in which most of the city is located is surrounded by large hills with vibrant greens in the spring and summer, and dramatic yellows in the fall. The mix of urban and rural is what makes PG an appealing destination. You can enjoy the

convenience of city amenities — great restaurants, art galleries, and sporting and cultural events — yet be steps away from spectacular wilderness opportunities.

PG boasts more than 100 kilometres of walking trails, including the 30-kilometre Centennial Trail, a large loop that connects neighbourhoods, rivers, parks, and the University of Northern British Columbia. With 1,600 lakes, rivers, and streams within 100 kilometres of the city, the region is a paradise for paddling, boating, and fishing.

And PG embraces winter as enthusiastically as it does summer. Visitors can explore the many cross-country ski trails or go deeper into the backcountry on a snowmobile. You’ll have stories to share about ice fishing adventures. And in the city, enjoy the outdoor skating oval.

The spirit of community

Ask anyone who lives in Prince George and they’ll tell you that the warmth of the community is what stands out. You can join the locals throughout the year, as the downtown is filled with good vibes and fun with a variety of festivals and celebrations.

The Indigenous peoples of the Lheidli T'enneh, meaning where two rivers flow, have known the beauty of PG and the surrounding region for thousands of years. The secret’s out. PG is waiting for you.

COME HUNGRY

There’s been an explosion of flavours in the Prince George food scene in recent years. You won’t be starving for choices. Some eateries are inspired by the finest local ingredients, while others will wow you with their creative dishes.

TRAVEL THE ALE TRAIL

Your tour of Northern BC’s craft beers starts in Prince George. Here, you can sample exquisite beers from three local breweries. Then taste your way across the region at 12 other craft breweries. And if wine is more your thing, then head to Northern Lights Estate Winery, the northern-most fruit winery in the province.

EXPLORE ANCIENT CULTURES

The ancient ways aren’t far away. For thousands of years Indigenous peoples have lived in the region. Enrich your visit by stopping at one of the many Indigenous communities and lands, such as the Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park/Ancient Forest, which stands on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. The land has strong ties to the First Nations, where you can learn more about their history, culture, and art.

With an abundance of water around, there’s no shortage of places to fish. Expert angler or new to fishing, a local guide can take you to lesser-known lakes and streams, where you’ll be able to boast about your own fish story.

delicacies

Ken Donohue

Larger than California, northern British Columbia is an adventure seeker's playground.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM PRINCE GEORGE

anyone who lives in Prince George and they’ll tell you that the warmth of the community is what stands out.

WILD COAST

Why Prince Rupert Needs to Be at the Top of Your Travel List

Northern British Columbia is filled with one-of-a-kind travel destinations — and Prince Rupert is one of them.

Perched on the edge of British Columbia’s Northwest coast, the surprisingly cosmopolitan city of Prince Rupert is the gateway to some of the world’s most stunning wilderness experiences.

A short boat ride or floatplane from Prince Rupert is the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. On the traditional territory of the Gitsi’is First Nation, the sanctuary became a provincial park in 1994 and was Canada’s first protected area specifically for grizzly bears. The park sits at the northern end of the famed Great Bear Rainforest. You can take a day-trip or stay overnight at a lodge to watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat from a safe distance.

Seeing grizzly bears isn't the only oncein-a-lifetime-type experience here — there's an abundance of wildlife and marine life around Prince Rupert, including eagles and whales. And it’s not just the whales that know the best fishing spots — visitors can

hook themselves up with a local guide who can find the best place to fish.

No shortage of things to do

After a day of outdoor adventure, you’ll want to stop in at the Museum of Northern BC, which showcases the region’s natural and cultural heritage. And much of that heritage comes from the Tsimshian Indigenous Peoples, who have lived here for thousands of years. Today, more than half the population of Prince Rupert is represented by local Indigenous peoples. Their culture is woven into the fabric of the city.

When it comes to dining, visitors will have a long list to choose from. From the many small, unique eateries, you’ll get a taste of local and fresh. And given its location on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is bountiful here.

Prince Rupert is authentic. It isn’t a commercialized twin of anywhere else. That’s what makes a visit to this city special.

HEAD OUT ON THE HIGHWAY

The Great Northern Circle Route in Northern BC is full of amazing sights and stops.

Tober

For those wanting to go on a bucket list-worthy road trip this summer but still stay close to home, it’s time you discovered the Great Northern Circle Route in Northern BC.

This spectacularly scenic route puts the natural beauty of Canada on full display: monumental mountains, untouched wilderness, shimmering blue lakes, plus gorgeous flora and fauna surround you as you travel through this immense untamed area.

In Northern BC, beauty is more than skin deep

Many Canadians know that British Columbia is gifted in the natural beauty department but, unless you’ve travelled to its north, you haven’t yet seen the best of it. This is where the province’s dramatic scenery meets out-

door adventure, sporting activities, animal spotting, and heritage sites.

EXPLORE

THE COW BAY DISTRICT

You won’t see any cows in the bay, but Prince Rupert’s bustling Cow Bay district is a must for its colourful shops, galleries, and restaurants.

STEP BACK IN TIME

Breathe in the history of the salmon can-

The Great Northern Circle Route Is a Bucket List-Worthy Great Canadian Road Trip

ming, fly fishing, kayaking — all can be done in this natural playground and in one epic road trip.

Plan your route to adventure

To properly take in the sights and scenery of Northern BC, plan to follow the entire Great Northern Circle Route, covering 3,200 kilometres. You'll head north from Prince George, through Pine Pass and the Peace River Regional District, along the historic Alaska Highway (#97). Make sure to buckle in as you travel up through the Yukon and down the Stewart-Cassiar Highway (#37), then across the Yellowhead Highway (#16) back to Prince George.

Northern BC begins at the city of Prince George and extends up to the Yukon/Alaska border. This vast region also encompasses the Haida Gwaii archipelago. Hiking, swim-

Throughout your journey you’ll discover prehistoric worlds, the culture of Indigenous peoples, quaint towns, historic museums, protected parklands, glaciated valleys, misty rainforests, and rugged mountains.

Ken Donohue

Janice

PHOTO CREDIT: TOURISM PRINCE RUPERT/DESTINATION BC/MIKE SEEHAGEL

Your journey doesn’t need to end here. You can always take an additional five to ten days to paddle the gorgeous 120-kilometre route through the Nation Lakes xhain of waterways — or maybe that's next year’s

PRINCE GEORGE

Take either air, road, or rail to get to the starting point of your journey, the modern city of Prince George. Called the “basecamp of the north,” this is where you can visit BC’s northernmost winery or a local brewery, the Huble Homestead Historic Site, or the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. You can also get in a game of golf on tamed, manicured grasses before they turn wild, stock up on supplies, and drink your fill of excellent coffee before you hit the road.

CHETWYN AND TUMBLER RIDGE

This section of road will take you through Chetwynd, home to more than 120 wooden chainsaw carvings, which line the streets. Starting out as an idea in 1992 to carve three bears to commemorate the anniversary of the Alaska Highway, the momentum grew to include the annual International Chainsaw Carving Competition, now drawing in carvers from all over the world. For natural beauty lovers, your next stop should be the Tumbler Ridge Geopark, the only UNESCO Global Geopark in Western Canada. Here, you'll find falls larger than those in Niagara (don’t miss a jet boat tour for total immersion) and more than 20 trails for every type of hiker, from vigorous alpine treks to meandering strolls. There’s even a car route to follow if that's more your speed.

DAWSON CREEK

This is a good spot to park for the night but, before you do, take a selfie at the historic Mile 0 sign, which marks the beginning of the historic Alaska Highway. This 1,930 km scenic route is open all year, and joins highways to Edmonton and Prince George. Check out the Northern Alberta Railway Station Museum located in a renovated grain elevator and the Walter Wright Pioneer Village.

FORT ST. JOHN

If you have a mind to go fishing, just outside Fort St. John is Charlie Lake, an idyllic spot to fish for trout, walleye, or northern pike. After a morning of casting and jigging, you’ve earned a beer at one of the local craft breweries before checking out the North Peace Cultural Centre and the Indigenous Artists’ Market before journeying on. If you can be up before dawn, you should stop to view the sunrise over Pink Mountain on your way to Fort Nelson. Up for a bit of an adventure? Travel along a bumpy logging road to view the scenic Sikanni Chief Falls, where the roar of water comes before you see the falls.

FORT NELSON

When you arrive at Fort Nelson, you're at the gateway to the Northern Rockies. Before leaving the town, visit the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum to learn about life during the building of the Alaska Highway. Along the road, Muncho Lake offers some of the most brilliant scenery you’ll ever set your eyes upon, with jade-coloured lakes and a backdrop of towering, craggy mountains. On the way stop by Liard River Hot Springs, an ecological phenomenon with a natural river of hot water.

WATSON LAKE SIGN POST FOREST

You'll want to come prepared to make your mark at Sign Post Forest, where there are close to 70,000 license plates, road shields, and homemade signs mounted. After a bit of fun and maybe a selfie or two, the Stewart-Cassiar Highway will lead you to the crystal-clear waters of Tā Ch’ilā Provincial Park. You also may want to take a short detour to visit the Cassiar ghost town, where the chills you feel might not be from the dip you took in the lake.

JADE CITY TO STEWART

This stretch of road is all about the great outdoors — go paddling, canoe to Cascade Falls, take a small plane to the Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park for breathtaking, remote beauty, or go to Mount Edziza Provincial Park for the surreal volcanic landscape. Just north of the town of Stewart, if travel restrictions allow, cross into Alaska and head to the stunning Salmon Glacier. This is the world’s largest vehicle-accessible glacier and something you won’t want to miss.

STEWART TO SMITHERS

Relive history on an interpretive walking trail at the Battle Hill National Historic Site and learn about the rich culture of the Gitxsan people at the ‘Ksan Historical Village before continuing south to Smithers.

1 2 4 3 6 8

SMITHERS TO FORT ST. JAMES

For a change of pace, take in the town of Smithers. This is the stop to get into that ski town vibe, with a magnificent mountain backdrop overlooking an alpine-themed streetscape. After a day spent hiking or paddling, head to a local brewery, shop, or café.

Next stop is Burns Lake, known for its 90 kilometres of biking trails, and then — since you’re already in the Lakes District — don’t miss the chance to hop on a float plane and head to a remote, pristine lake that feels like it’s there only for you.

FORT ST. JAMES AND THE RETURN TO PRINCE GEORGE

This final leg of your journey takes you to the Fort St. James National Historic Site, a recreation of an 1896 Hudson’s Bay trading post. This area was originally established by explorer Simon Fraser in 1806 as an outpost for the Northwest Company and became known as the ‘Siberia of the fur trade’ due to its harsh winters, but today it's known for its excellent fishing.

adventure?

PHOTO CREDIT: NORTHERN BC TOURISM/ANDREW STRAIN

PHOTO CREDIT: NORTHERN BC TOURISM/RYAN DICKIE

PHOTO CREDIT:

PHOTO PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION BC/@CALSNAPE

NORTHERN

BC TOURISM/JASON HAMBORG

TRAVEL IN STYLE

How Bus Companies Are Changing Our Idea of the Road Trip

Canadians are itching to travel again, especially within Canada. And with Canadians feeling the pinch at the gas pumps, expensive airfares, and the hassle of flying, intercity bus travel is experiencing a renaissance.

Ken Donohue

Bus companies in Western Canada are proving that the bus experience is the best way to travel. Buses are often the least expensive travel option, but some offer premium services with business class-style seating — reclining seats, generous legroom, tray tables, headrests, and power outlets to charge your devices.

The experience can also include complimentary snacks and beverages, and free wi-fi. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for cost and convenience.

Leave the driving to someone else Red Arrow and Ebus are upping their game with expanded routes and enhanced services. They’re redefining what your family vacation could be. Instead of waiting for hours at an airport, with tiring security checks, or having the stress of driving yourself, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery through large windows, while someone else does the driving.

You can also feel good about bus travel, because it has a low environmental impact compared to other forms of transportation.

By design, buses are cleaner than trains, planes, and even cars. Carrying multiple passengers means decreasing vehicle emissions by removing up to 52 cars off the road each trip. And new types of fuels, such as ultra-low sulphur and biodiesel are helping to reduce greenhouse gases and emissions even more.

Connecting the west Three bus companies operating in Alberta and British Columbia are changing our perception of what convenient travel looks like.

leather seats and fold-down tray tables, charging stations at every seat, complimentary wi-fi, onboard entertainment, and a rewards program are just some of the ways Red Arrow takes care of you. They were also the first in Canada to offer seat belts in their coaches. With an extensive route network between Lethbridge and Fort McMurray, including Calgary, Red Deer, and Edmonton, Red Arrow has you covered.

Family-owned and Alberta-based, Red Arrow has been a fixture in the province for more than 40 years.

They were pioneers in the industry when they offered game-changing single row privacy seating, complimentary snacks and refreshments, and at one point had a fax machine on board! Red Arrow is still an industry leader when it comes to delivering innovative service. With Red Arrow, it’ll feel more like a business class flight experience than what you might imagine on a typical bus trip.

A deluxe onboard experience awaits, as Red Arrow’s coaches have just 36 seats, instead of the typical 52 seats with other operators. This means a more exclusive experience and more space for you to relax or to do work. Single row seating, reclining

Ebus launched in British Columbia in 2018 when Greyhound left, but has been operating in Alberta for 10 years among the cities of Fort McMurray, Edmonton, and Calgary. Ebus is the sibling-brand to the luxury Red Arrow and provides scheduled routes in BC. Coaches connect Vancouver with some of BC’s major interior cities, including Kamloops and Kelowna. With complimentary wi-fi and spacious legroom, Ebus lets you relax so you can enjoy the trip. Ebus has partnered with local operators to connect passengers from Kamloops to Edmonton, where one can join a Red Arrow service.

CONVENIENT AND

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO SOMEONE ELSE

IT’S GREEN

When BC Bus North launched four years ago, travelling throughout British Columbia’s spectacular, yet expansive, northern region became a lot easier. With 39 communities served, you can pick your adventure. Fancy a trip to the wild west coast? Want to explore the majestic Mt. Robson Provincial Park? Or perhaps experience part of the famed Alaska Highway? BC Bus North gives you all this and more with convenient connections and access.

BC Bus North coaches are also moving works of art, as Indigenous artists were commissioned to create beautiful art that adorn the outside of the coaches. BC Bus North serves 39 communities across northern BC. One of the art pieces by Kari Morgan K’alaajex is called We Are All Connected. What are you waiting for? Bus travel is the way to go and these companies are ready to connect you to fantastic destinations across Western Canada.

MORE QUALITY TIME

Why the Northwest Territories Is a Real Northern Adventure

The Northwest Territories has always been a place that has called to adventurers — the Dene and Inuvialuit Indigenous peoples who have lived on the land for thousands of years, fur traders, bush pilots, miners, and present-day adventure seekers. And now, it's the time for your own northern adventure.

If you’re in the Northwest Territories and you hear someone say “Lights out,” it doesn’t mean it’s time for bed, but rather time to grab your camera and get excited, because the northern lights are dancing in the sky. And the Northwest Territories is the best place to witness this magical spectacle. You’ll get more than a brief glimpse, because the northern lights put on their show across the territories on average 200 nights a year. It’s a different experience here, because the lights are the strongest in the world, the colours are brighter, and the displays last longer.

Breathtaking scenery around every corner

The Northwest Territories is home to six national parks, each offering unique, oneof-a-kind experiences. Whether it’s spotting bison in Wood Buffalo, Canada’s largest national park, or marvelling at the peaks in Nááts'įhch'oh, which is named after the Nááts'įhch'oh Mountain, or paddling the famed South Nahanni River, it’s a place of wide-open and untouched spaces that haven’t been tamed by the commercialization of other destinations.

A road trip in the Northwest Territories is like no other. How many of your friends have driven to the Arctic Ocean?

Five years ago, the 140-kilometre Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway opened, making it the first road to reach the polar shore in North America. Now, you can drive this unforgettable route from Inuvik to the vibrant Inuvialuit community of Tuk-

toyaktuk. Imagine the stories you’ll be able to share.

Getting there is easy

Going north is easy with several airlines offering non-stop flights to Yellowknife (the territorial capital) from many southern destinations. From Yellowknife, many more airlines offer scheduled or charter flights within the Northwest Territories to communities, wilderness rivers, national parks, and remote fishing lodges. And with three southern highways leading into the territories, driving your own car or RV is easy. Despite the wild landscape that seems to go on forever, there are also lots of campgrounds, picnic sites, and service stations to make your journey easier.

What you get in the Northwest Territories is how nature intended. Beautiful. Spectacular. Dazzling. It’s the making of stories. What are you waiting for?

CANADA’S

CAPITAL OF COOL

How Yellowknife Is Setting the Bar on Northern Fun

Canadians are craving unique travel destinations. Yellowknife is all that and more — a one-of-a-kind city, with one-of-a-kind experiences. It’s a year-round destination and the first stop on a Northwest Territories adventure.

Ken Donohue

Yellowknife bills itself as the wildest little city on Earth. And who can argue? Nature meets city here. Perched on the edge of Great Slave Lake, one of the largest lakes in the world, a city rises next to the lake, yet you’re only minutes away from nature, trails, and wildlife. You can enjoy the amenities of a large city and a community that's friendly and welcoming.

Yellowknife is a year-round destination. Summers are bright, with 20 hours of daylight. This means you can play in the outdoors any time of day. How cool would it be to swim, kayak, or go for a bike ride at midnight? It’s the kind of experience you can only get in the north.

And winter is just as cool. In fact, if you visit at the right time during a cold snap, you can witness phenomena seen nowhere else: icy rainbows frozen in the sky, thick ice fog, or lakes frozen so thick you can hear the ice

pinging and popping under pressure. And those darker days provide a backdrop for one of the world’s most spectacular natural light shows — the northern lights. Outdoor activities abound — dogsledding, skiing, snowshoeing, or visiting a snow castle. Imagine all the stories you’ll be able to share.

When you want a break from outdoor adventures, Yellowknife’s artistic side is waiting. Marvel at (and take home with you) works of art in the city’s many art galleries, or learn about the culture, art, and traditions of the Indigenous peoples. This culturally-rich city will surprise you.

JOIN THE PARTY

The fun never ends in Yellowknife. With year-round festivals and events to keep you entertained (and well-fed), Yellowknife is always up for a party. But there’s something special about experiencing the midnight sun. And if you get yourself to the city on the longest day of the year, you’re in for an extra special kind of party. Enjoy a street carnival, midnight sun golf tournament, day-long tribute to Indigenous culture and peoples, and so much more. And a must-attend is the biggest party in the north, Folks on the Rocks,

BE WOWED BY EARTH’S NATURAL LIGHT SHOW

Yellowknife is one of the best places on the planet to view the northern lights. And with 28 weeks between the two main viewing seasons — late summer/autumn and winter — you’ll have a great chance to witness the magic. Local operators are waiting to give you a one-of-a-kind northern lights experience.

GO FOR A DRIVE…NORTHERN STYLE

Dogsledding, a traditional form of transportation in the north, is one of those once-in-a-lifetime activities. You can either sit comfortably in a toboggan with canvas sides or become a musher and learn to harness and drive your own team of dogs. Or try kicksledding for a memorable experience. If watching is more your thing, then you’ll want to catch the Canadian Championship Dog Derby, Yellowknife’s biggest dog sledding event, held over three days in March on the Great Slave Lake near the Dettah ice road.

FIND OUT WHY YELLOWKNIFE IS A GEM OF A CITY

Yellowknife’s history was paved in gold, but the city is now the hub of Canada’s sparkling diamond industry. Some of the purest diamonds in the world come from the area around Yellowknife. There’s nothing like buying local. Shop for a diamond for someone special (or for yourself) at one of the many shops or learn the art of diamond mining through an interactive tour.

LEARN HOW YOU CAN MAKE SOME YELLOWKNIFE MEMORIES

Visit the new location of the Yellowknife Visitor Centre, opening this year at Centre Square Mall (downtown), where helpful staff can give you lots of ideas on activities so you can have the best experience in this one-of-a-kind northern city. You can get a free North of 60 certificate and a Yellowknife pin to take home with you. The Visitor Centre also boasts a non-commercial art gallery displaying local artwork.

Many Canadians talk about the north, perhaps the northern region of their province, but they haven’t experienced the real north — the jaw-dropping, stunningly beautiful, bucket list kind of north that can be found throughout the Northwest Territories. And it’s more accessible than you think.

Ken Donohue

Start making your northern stories by visiting spectacular nwt.com

This article was sponsored by Spectacular Northwest Territories

one of Canada’s top summertime music and cultural festivals.

Tent, Cooler, and Respect for Nature

product company Coleman encourages and helps Canadians to get outside for exploration and travel, while also being respectful of the environment.

What better place is there to explore the great outdoors and the wonders of nature than right here in Canada? This beautiful country of ours is a natural wonderland, renowned globally for its two million lakes, the world’s longest coastline, 40 national parks, and countless jaw-dropping views and vistas. With its abundant wildlife and wild, untouched nature, Canada is an oasis for adventurers, explorers, campers, road trippers, travellers, and outdoor sport and activity enthusiasts.

However, we must keep protecting our environment top of mind as we enjoy it.

Nurtured by nature

Studies have proven time and time again the benefits of spending time in nature, from higher levels of concentration, creativity, and mental clarity to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, lowered blood pressure and cortisol, and reduced feelings of irritability and loneliness. Fortunately, as Canadians, we have countless opportunities to get outside and to reap the many benefits of nature on our health and well-being. Even if you live in a major city, answering the call for the outdoors is usually highly accessible, with national and provincial parks nestled in and around Vancouver, Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, and other major Canadian cities.

Whether it’s exploring your neighbourhood park by foot, biking through the nearest national park, enjoying a weekend camping getaway, or venturing further afoot to explore all that Canada has to offer,

there are many options to take advantage of Canada’s natural landscapes.

Take only photos, leave only footprints While time spent in nature is good for the mind, body, and soul, we must remember to be good to nature in return. Outdoor product company Coleman — a favourite brand of outdoor recreation lovers and camping enthusiasts — is a strong advocate of enjoying outdoor travel and adventures in a way that’s environmentally-conscious and responsible. While supporting outdoor adventurers with equipment for their next activity or expedition, the company also focuses consistently on protecting nature.

Coleman’s brand stewardship for leaving natural spaces the way you found them is a testament to the company’s environmental leadership and sense of social responsibility. Committing to sustainable travel protects our precious environment while also protecting outdoor adventurers.

Getting equipped for your next adventure After respecting the environment and understanding how to enjoy nature responsibly, the next most important essential for a safe and fun time outdoors is having the right equipment. Coleman equips outdoor adventurers and campers with all the essentials they need, including tents, coolers, propane stoves and griddles, backpacks, sleeping bags, camp chairs, rechargeable flashlights and lanterns, and much more. Coleman Canada’s website is an excellent resource to visit and check out the many outdoor product solutions for your next outdoor activity.

Make sure to plan ahead as many of our beautiful national and provincial parks require reservations in advance or have limited capacity for day use — so get prepared beforehand to ensure a fun and successful trip. The outside is calling — answer it.

Tania Amardeil

Outdoor