THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Community Conservation Area · Northwest Territories

Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

The Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area is a vast protected region in the Northwest Territories dedicated to preserving Indigenous cultural heritage and fragile boreal ecosystems, offering visitors rich wildlife viewing and immersive wilderness experiences.

Community Conservation Area9,632,000

Designation

Community Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

9,632,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

The Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area is a vast protected region in the Northwest Territories dedicated to preserving Indigenous cultural heritage and fragile boreal ecosystems, offering visitors rich wildlife viewing and immersive wilderness experiences.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area (Tłı̨chǫ CCA) encompasses approximately 39,000 square kilometers of boreal forest, wetlands, and tundra in the central part of the Northwest Territories, Canada. Co-managed by the Tłı̨chǫ Government and territorial authorities, this conservation area represents a landmark Indigenous-led initiative to protect and steward land according to Tłı̨chǫ traditions and values. The landscape is defined by rolling hills, myriad lakes, rivers, and vast forested regions that provide critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife including caribou, moose, black bears, wolves, and migratory birds. The area holds deep cultural significance for the Tłı̨chǫ Dene people, who have lived sustainably in the region for millennia, practicing traditional hunting, trapping, and fishing. Recreational opportunities within the Tłı̨chǫ CCA are generally remote and wilderness-focused, with visitors able to engage in activities such as backcountry hiking, wildlife photography, canoeing, and camping. The conservation area includes access to important migratory routes for the Bathurst and Bluenose East caribou herds, making it an exceptional location for observing northern wildlife in their natural environment. Visitors can also gain insights into the Tłı̨chǫ culture through community events and guided excursions led by local Indigenous guides. Due to its remoteness, the Tłı̨chǫ CCA offers a pristine wilderness experience far from urban centers, ideally suited to experienced outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and deep connection with both nature and Indigenous heritage.

Field Guide · Community Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Dance of the Aurora Borealis in Yellowknife★ 8.7⌖ 149 miNorthern Lights Viewing
Northern Lights Tours

Dance of the Aurora Borealis in Yellowknife

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in Yellowknife, NT. Best viewed from late August to early April, this site offers exceptional aurora borealis displays. An ideal spot for photographers and cultural experiences.

Northern Lights ViewingView Details→
Majestic Waters of Great Bear Lake★ 8.8⌖ 163 miFishing
Great Bear Lake

Majestic Waters of Great Bear Lake

Explore the vast and serene Great Bear Lake in Northwest Territories. Renowned for amazing fishing and wildlife viewing, this remote destination offers crystal-clear waters and solitude. Best visited from June to September for the midnight sun and Northern Lights.

Waters of the North: Great Slave Lake★ 8.7⌖ 192 miFishing
Great Slave Lake

Waters of the North: Great Slave Lake

Explore the expansive Great Slave Lake in Northwest Territories, with fishing and kayaking opportunities. Ideal for viewing the Northern Lights, this remote destination appeals to adventure seekers looking for diverse wildlife and serene landscapes.

Cascading Beauty of Lady Evelyn Falls★ 7.8⌖ 205 miHiking
Lady Evelyn Falls

Cascading Beauty of Lady Evelyn Falls

Explore the mesmerizing Lady Evelyn Falls in Kakisa, NT. Accessible by car, this easy route offers hiking, picnicking, and fishing amidst tranquil beauty. Enjoy the enchanting rainbows in the mist and the soothing rush of water. Best from late spring to early fall for serene, family-friendly adventures.

Waterfall Wonders: Alexandra Falls, Northwest Territories★ 8.6⌖ 242 miHiking
Alexandra Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Alexandra Falls, Northwest Territories

Explore the stunning Alexandra Falls, located in Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park near Enterprise, NT. Experience the beauty of this 32-meter waterfall along the Hay River and enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping in the surrounding tranquil wilderness.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bathurst and Bluenose East caribou migratory corridors✦ Expansive boreal forest and pristine subarctic wetlands✦ Canoeing and paddling on remote lakes and rivers✦ Opportunities to engage with Tłı̨chǫ cultural heritage and traditional knowledge
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access managed in partnership with the Tłı̨chǫ Government; visitors must obtain permissions and adhere to conservation guidelines.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Gamètì
⌖ 19.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gamètì, Northwest Territories

A remote, serene community offering authentic wilderness experiences with pristine boreal forests, lakes, and traditional Indigenous landscapes.

June to September for summer activities; December to March for winter sportsExplore Town
Edzo
⌖ 26.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Edzo, Northwest Territories

A small, close-knit community offering authentic Northern outdoor experiences surrounded by boreal forests and pristine landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Fall, and Winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
N’Dilo
⌖ 26.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

N’Dilo, Northwest Territories

A small, traditional Dene community offering authentic cultural experiences combined with tranquil wilderness access along Great Slave Lake’s shores.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
N'Dilo
⌖ 26.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

N'Dilo, Northwest Territories

A small, Indigenous community with tranquil access to riverfront landscapes and rich cultural experiences amidst the wilderness of Canada’s northern boreal forest.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Wekweètì
⌖ 26.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wekweètì, Northwest Territories

A remote, tranquil community nestled in pristine boreal forest offering pure wilderness adventure and rich Indigenous cultural experiences.

Mid-June to early September and mid-December to MarchExplore Town
Whatì
⌖ 56.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whatì, Northwest Territories

A remote, serene community offering authentic northern wilderness experiences surrounded by pristine boreal forests and crystal-clear lakes.

June to September for summer activities; December to March for winter sportsExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Tłı̨chǫ Community Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Private Cabin Getaway with Yellow Dog Lodge in YellowknifeYellowknife, Northwest Territories · 148.19 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Yellow Dog Lodge

Private Cabin Getaway with Yellow Dog Lodge in Yellowknife

Discover the wilderness of the Northwest Territories with a stay at Yellow Dog Lodge’s private cabins. From paddling in fall to snowshoeing in winter, this all-inclusive experience blends comfort with raw outdoor adventure. Find out why it’s a top choice for those seeking authentic northern exploration.

2–4 hours per activity

Explore this trip
Yellowknife Snowmobiling to Great Slave Lake Ice Caves: Guided 3‑Hour AdventureYellowknife, Northwest Territories · 148.22 mi away
All Adventures· Arctic Tours Canada

Yellowknife Snowmobiling to Great Slave Lake Ice Caves: Guided 3‑Hour Adventure

Race across the frozen expanse of Great Slave Lake by snowmobile, trek on snowshoes into a blue ice cave and warm up with a hot drink on this private three‑hour Yellowknife excursion. Learn about local geology and Dene history while following a licensed guide across North America’s deepest lake.

3 hours

Check dates & book

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.