A river journey through deep canyons, powerful waterfalls, and the Mackenzie Mountains
Nahanni National Park Reserve is located in the Dehcho Region of the southwestern Northwest Territories, near the Yukon and British Columbia borders. Centred around the South Nahanni River, the park stretches through the Mackenzie Mountains, where deep canyons, alpine valleys, hot springs, and waterfalls shape one of Canada’s most recognized wilderness landscapes.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nahanni National Park Reserve is known for multi-day river journeys through remote mountain terrain accessible primarily by floatplane and river.
For many travellers, Nahanni is less about reaching a single destination and more about the experience of moving through the landscape itself. Canoe and rafting expeditions follow the South Nahanni River through canyon systems, gravel bars, mountain valleys and stretches of river that are often travelled over the course of a week or more.
Cultural connection and living heritage
This area has long been connected to the Indigenous peoples of the Dehcho Region, whose deep relationships with the land continue today.
The South Nahanni River remains an important part of cultural knowledge, travel, and storytelling across the region. Visitors can learn more through Indigenous-led tourism experiences and local licensed operators who share perspectives rooted in place and lived experience.
Nahanni National Park Reserve became one of the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1978, recognized for its outstanding river canyons, waterfalls, geological features, and Northern mountain landscapes.
Experiences in Nahanni
Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) is one of the park’s most recognized landmarks. The South Nahanni River drops nearly 100 metres into the canyon below, creating a powerful wall of mist and sound visible long before visitors reach the falls.
Paddle the South Nahanni River: The South Nahanni River is the primary travel route through the park. Guided canoe and rafting expeditions range from shorter fly-in trips to multi-week journeys through canyon systems, mountain valleys, and remote wilderness landscapes.
Camping along gravel bars and travelling by river allows visitors to experience the landscape gradually, moving through sections of the park only accessible by river or air.
Travel through the canyons: Four major canyons shape the South Nahanni River corridor, with sheer limestone walls rising above the river. These canyon systems are among the defining features of travelling through Nahanni National Park Reserve.
Visit Rabbitkettle Hot Springs: Rabbitkettle Hot Springs is one of the most unique geothermal areas in Nahanni National Park Reserve. Warm mineral-rich water flows through the landscape, gradually forming delicate limestone tufa mounds over thousands of years.
Best time to visit Nahanni
The main travel season for Nahanni National Park Reserve runs from late June through early September.
Summer
Late June through August is the primary season for river expeditions and floatplane access. Daytime temperatures often range from 15°C to 25°C, though conditions can shift quickly depending on rainfall and elevation. Long daylight hours support extended days on the river and active wildlife viewing opportunities.
Late summer and early fall
Late August into early September brings cooler conditions and seasonal colour changes across the landscape. Daytime temperatures commonly range from 5°C to 15°C, with colder overnight temperatures possible later in the season.
Because weather and river conditions can change rapidly, travellers should prepare for rain, cool evenings, and variable backcountry conditions throughout the season.
How to visit Nahanni National Park Reserve
Nahanni National Park Reserve cannot be reached by road. Most visitors access the park by chartered floatplane from Fort Simpson, the primary gateway community for Nahanni trips.
Visitors can choose from:
- Guided canoe expeditions through the South Nahanni River canyon system
- Whitewater rafting trips ranging from several days to multiple weeks
- Flightseeing tours, and fly-in visits to Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls)
- Multi-day backcountry itineraries with licensed tourism operators
Trips are shaped by water levels, weather, and seasonal conditions. Most travellers visit with experienced tourism operators who coordinate transportation, equipment, meals, guides, and safety planning for remote backcountry travel.
Because of the park’s remoteness, visitors should plan well in advance, particularly during peak summer travel periods. Waterproof gear, layered clothing, and preparation for changing weather conditions are essential for most Nahanni trips.
Independent travel is possible for highly experienced backcountry paddlers, but guided trips are the most common way to safely experience the park.
Explore more Nahanni stories
Continue uncovering all that Nahanni National Park Reserve has to offer through stories highlighting multi-day paddling journeys, floatplane adventures, wildlife encounters, and travel experiences connected to the South Nahanni River and the Dehcho Region across the Spectacular NWT.
