Spend a full day in Yellowknife that blends civic history, lakeshore hikes, and an evening aurora chase. This guided tour pairs accessible short walks with cultural stops and the best chances to see the Northern Lights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive as the afternoon light thins over Old Town, the wind off Great Slave Lake pushing cool air across the boardwalks. Guides gather the group and the vehicle idles—this is a day that moves from civic landmarks to lakeshore vistas and, if conditions align, an evening when the northern sky begins to dance.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to walk short trails and stand outside in cold for extended periods
Wildlife
History
Yellowknife grew rapidly during the mid-20th century diamond and gold booms; bush pilots and Indigenous trade shaped its role as a northern hub.
Conservation
Visitors should stay on marked trails and pack out waste; Great Slave Lake and surrounding boreal habitats are sensitive to disturbance and benefit from low-impact travel.
Reserve your spot on the Yellowknife Full Day Tour with Aurora Borealis Northern Light today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers for temperature swings
Bring wool or synthetic base layers plus an insulated outer shell — nights can drop well below freezing even after a mild day.
Bring a tripod and learn manual camera settings
For aurora photography use long exposures (5–20s) and a wide aperture; a tripod prevents blurred shots in low light.
Charge devices and bring spare batteries
Cold drains batteries fast; keep spares warm in an inner pocket and carry a portable charger for phones and cameras.
Plan for limited restroom stops during remote stretches
Use facilities during town stops—some lakeside or viewpoint locations have no services for long stretches.
Insulated parka or down jacket
Keeps core warm during long evening waits for the aurora.
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Sturdy waterproof boots
Useful for lakeshore walks, snow or slushy trails, and uneven bedrock.
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Camera with tripod
Enables long-exposure aurora photos with significantly better results than handheld shots.
Thermal base layers and warm hat/gloves
Layering prevents heat loss during cold evenings and variable daytime conditions.
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