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National Park · Nunavut

Ukkusiksalik National Park

Ukkusiksalik National Park in Nunavut offers a remote Arctic wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich Inuit cultural heritage.

National Park5,059,3464+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

5,059,346

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Ukkusiksalik National Park

Ukkusiksalik National Park in Nunavut offers a remote Arctic wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich Inuit cultural heritage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Ukkusiksalik National Park, located on the west coast of Hudson Bay in Nunavut, Canada, spans over 20,000 square kilometers of pristine Arctic tundra, rugged coastline, and glacial fjords. The park encompasses Wager Bay, a 100-kilometer-long fjord framed by towering cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its unique Arctic ecosystem, featuring caribou herds, polar bears, Arctic foxes, seals, and numerous bird species such as peregrine falcons and snowy owls. Ukkusiksalik is also the heartland of Inuit cultural history, including archaeological remains of former Inuit settlements and trading posts that reveal millennia of human adaptation to the harsh environment. Recreational opportunities are centered around wildlife viewing, remote hiking, kayaking through Wager Bay, and cross-country ski touring during winter months. The park is extremely remote, accessible only by charter flights or boat from Rankin Inlet, enhancing its appeal for adventure travelers seeking solitude and pristine wilderness. Visitors are drawn to the raw beauty of the Arctic's expansive landscapes, the chance to encounter iconic wildlife, and the opportunity to learn about Inuit traditions through cultural programs and guided tours. Its combination of natural and cultural heritage makes Ukkusiksalik a unique destination for those interested in Arctic ecology and indigenous history.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Ukkusiksalik National Park

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

Serene Waters at Reindeer Lake★ 8.5⌖ 535 miFishing
Reindeer Lake

Serene Waters at Reindeer Lake

Explore Reindeer Lake's serene waters in Saskatchewan. Known for diverse fishing and stunning sunsets, it's ideal for adventure seekers. Canoe, kayak, or hike to experience wildlife and panoramic views. Best visited in summer; access via a 3-hour drive from La Ronge.

Pingualuit Crater: A Frozen Jewel in Nunavik★ 8.5⌖ 604 miHiking
Pingualuit National Park

Pingualuit Crater: A Frozen Jewel in Nunavik

Explore Pingualuit Crater in Quebec's Pingualuit National Park. This landmark offers moderate hiking with panoramic views and unique wildlife watching opportunities. Best visited in spring and fall, it's a remote and serene destination for adventurers seeking pristine Arctic beauty.

Breathtaking Wilderness of Baffin Island★ 8.7⌖ 637 miHiking
Baffin Island

Breathtaking Wilderness of Baffin Island

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Baffin Island in the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Canada. Known for hiking and wildlife viewing, this remote destination is quiet year-round and best visited in summer. Explore Auyuittuq National Park and meet the rich Inuit culture.

Majestic Sands of Athabasca★ 9.2⌖ 641 miDune Hiking
Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park

Majestic Sands of Athabasca

Explore the world's largest northernmost active sand dunes in Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park, Saskatchewan. Ideal for adventure seekers, the park offers unique dune hiking and wildlife observation. Best visited in summer, it's an off-the-beaten-path destination accessible by boat or floatplane.

Dune HikingView Details→
Discover Victoria Island’s Charm★ 8.5⌖ 695 miWildlife Viewing
Victoria Island

Discover Victoria Island’s Charm

Explore Victoria Island with its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage in British Columbia. Enjoy hiking, whale watching, and kayaking. Best visited in spring and summer, this island is lively with adventure and wildlife.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wager Bay Fjord – dramatic 100 km-long fjord with towering cliffs and Arctic waters✦ Polar Bear and Caribou Viewing – prime habitat for iconic Arctic wildlife✦ Inuit Archaeological Sites – remnants of historic hunting camps and trading posts✦ Kayaking Expeditions – remote paddling opportunities through pristine fjord waters
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Ukkusiksalik National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Ukkusiksalik National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits required from Parks Canada; guided trips highly recommended due to remoteness.

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 Ukkusiksalik National Park

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 Ukkusiksalik National Park. 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 Ukkusiksalik National Park

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

Chesterfield Inlet
⌖ 42.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut

A remote Arctic hamlet offering authentic northern wilderness experiences with pristine tundra, rugged coastline, and traditional Inuit culture.

June to September for summer activities; December to March for winter sportsExplore Town
Rankin Inlet
⌖ 50.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rankin Inlet, Nunavut

A vibrant Arctic community offering rugged tundra landscapes and coastal adventures in the heart of Nunavut, blending Inuit culture with outdoor exploration.

June to SeptemberExplore Town
Arviat
⌖ 181.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arviat, Nunavut

A remote Inuit community on Hudson Bay offering authentic Arctic wilderness experiences with vast tundra, rugged coastlines, and unique cultural connections.

June to September for summer activities; December to March for winter adventuresExplore Town
Repulse Bay
⌖ 266.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Repulse Bay, Nunavut

A remote Arctic community offering pristine tundra landscapes and icy waters, perfect for wilderness exploration and traditional Inuit culture immersion.

Mid-June to Early SeptemberExplore Town
Gjoa Haven
⌖ 368.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gjoa Haven, Nunavut

A remote Arctic hamlet offering pristine polar landscapes, rich Inuit culture, and unique opportunities for polar adventure and wildlife encounters.

June to September (summer), February to March (late winter)Explore Town
Cape Dorset
⌖ 473.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cape Dorset, Nunavut

A remote Arctic community offering serene tundra landscapes, cultural richness, and unique winter and summer outdoor experiences in Canada’s far north.

June to September for summer activities; February to April for winter sports.Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Ukkusiksalik National Park

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

12 bookable experiences

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