THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A private full-day flight-and-hike tour into Nahanni National Park Reserve visiting Virginia Falls, Glacier Lake and Rabbit Kettle Lake. Expect floatplane landings, guided hikes to the top and bottom of the falls, and close-up views of dramatic cirques and river-carved rock.
A private full-day flight-and-hike tour into Nahanni National Park Reserve visiting Virginia Falls, Glacier Lake and Rabbit Kettle Lake. Expect floatplane landings, guided hikes to the top and bottom of the falls, and close-up views of dramatic cirques and river-carved rock.
You step off the floatplane onto a gray gravel spit and the river announces itself — a white thunder that seems to come from everywhere and nowhere. At Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) the South Nahanni River hurls itself over a cliff twice the height of Niagara, spray knitting the air into a cool veil. The guide points out ledges where water has carved amphitheaters and a trail that drops to the river’s edge; you can feel the current daring you to get closer.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Goose Flying Service · Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories
You step off the floatplane onto a gray gravel spit and the river announces itself — a white thunder that seems to come from everywhere and nowhere. At Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) the South Nahanni River hurls itself over a cliff twice the height of Niagara, spray knitting the air into a cool veil. The guide points out ledges where water has carved amphitheaters and a trail that drops to the river’s edge; you can feel the current daring you to get closer.
The landscape here is sculpted by glacial action and volcanic bedrock; cirques and sharp ridgelines frame Glacier Lake and the distant Cirque of the Unclimbables. For millennia the Dehcho (Dene) people have read these routes and place names — Náįlįcho is as much cultural landmark as natural wonder.
A full-day private tour typically includes guided hikes to the top and bottom of Virginia Falls, a gravel-bar stop at Glacier Lake with views of soaring cliffs, and time at Rabbit Kettle Lake where short trails and calm water offer easy exploration. Expect variable weather, rocky terrain, and sections of loose scree; the hikes are moderate but require steady footing.
Practical guidance: wear sturdy boots with ankle support, pack layered waterproof clothing, carry 2–3 liters of water and snacks, and bring insect repellent in summer. Plan for an early flight from Fort Simpson, and allow extra time for photography and shoreline exploration — permits and park regulations protect these areas, so stay on designated trails and follow your guide’s instructions.
moderate.
8 hours.
Participants should have a moderate fitness level—able to hike uneven terrain for up to 2–3 hours with short elevation changes.
Most travellers overnight in Fort Simpson; floatplane departures are arranged from local docks or airport with pickup options from central lodging.
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during flight; operators recommend moderate fitness for hikers and advise supervising children on trails and near water.
You may see moose and Dall sheep at distance; bears inhabit the region—guides carry bear safety gear and maintain safe viewing distances.
Yes—floatplane operations are weather-dependent. The tour allows cancellation for bad weather and recommends flexible scheduling and travel insurance.
The area is within the traditional territory of Dene communities; Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) holds cultural significance and the park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wild river canyons.
Nahanni is protected under federal park regulations and UNESCO guidelines—stay on trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all waste to minimize impact.
Goose Flying Service operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step off the floatplane onto a gray gravel spit and the river announces itself — a white thunder that seems to come from everywhere and nowhere. At Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) the South Nahanni River hurls itself over a cliff twice the height of Niagara, spray knitting the air into a cool veil. The guide points out ledges where water has carved amphitheaters and a trail that drops to the river’s edge; you can feel the current daring you to get closer.
You step off the floatplane onto a gray gravel spit and the river announces itself — a white thunder that seems to come from everywhere and nowhere. At Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) the South Nahanni River hurls itself over a cliff twice the height of Niagara, spray knitting the air into a cool veil. The guide points out ledges where water has carved amphitheaters and a trail that drops to the river’s edge; you can feel the current daring you to get closer.
The landscape here is sculpted by glacial action and volcanic bedrock; cirques and sharp ridgelines frame Glacier Lake and the distant Cirque of the Unclimbables. For millennia the Dehcho (Dene) people have read these routes and place names — Náįlįcho is as much cultural landmark as natural wonder.
A full-day private tour typically includes guided hikes to the top and bottom of Virginia Falls, a gravel-bar stop at Glacier Lake with views of soaring cliffs, and time at Rabbit Kettle Lake where short trails and calm water offer easy exploration. Expect variable weather, rocky terrain, and sections of loose scree; the hikes are moderate but require steady footing.
Practical guidance: wear sturdy boots with ankle support, pack layered waterproof clothing, carry 2–3 liters of water and snacks, and bring insect repellent in summer. Plan for an early flight from Fort Simpson, and allow extra time for photography and shoreline exploration — permits and park regulations protect these areas, so stay on designated trails and follow your guide’s instructions.