Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Tłı̨chǫ Protected Area, established as part of the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement, encompasses over 39,000 square kilometers of boreal forests, tundra, lakes, and wetlands in the Northwest Territories of Canada. This protected area is co-managed by the Government of Canada and the Tłı̨chǫ First Nation, reflecting a unique partnership that preserves both the ecological integrity and the cultural heritage of the Tłı̨chǫ people. The landscape features rolling hills shaped by glacial activity, extensive muskeg, and crystal-clear lakes, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife including caribou, moose, black bears, wolves, and numerous migratory birds. It is also important for maintaining the traditional harvesting and hunting practices of the Tłı̨chǫ communities. Visitors seeking solitude and pristine wilderness can explore remote hiking, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The area’s cultural landmarks, such as traditional hunting grounds and sacred sites, add a spiritual and historical dimension to the outdoor experience. Due to its remote location and limited facilities, most access occurs through air charters or long overland trips. The Tłı̨chǫ Protected Area highlights the importance of indigenous stewardship in conservation, offering a model for integrated land use that emphasizes both environmental and cultural sustainability. Whether paddling its many lakes, hiking across wild terrain, or observing the northern lights, visitors find an immersive encounter with the natural and cultural landscape of Canada’s north.
