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Ukkusiksalik National Park adventures

Ukkusiksalik National Park Adventures

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

5,059,346
Acres Protected
Limited marked trails; primarily backcountry routes
Miles of Trails
Fewer than 500 (due to remoteness)
Annual Visitors
2003
Year Established

About Ukkusiksalik National Park

 

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.

Highlights

Highlight

Wager Bay Fjord – dramatic 100 km-long fjord with towering cliffs and Arctic waters

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Polar Bear and Caribou Viewing – prime habitat for iconic Arctic wildlife

Highlight

Inuit Archaeological Sites – remnants of historic hunting camps and trading posts

Highlight

Kayaking Expeditions – remote paddling opportunities through pristine fjord waters

Notable Natural Features

Wager Bay

A deep, glacial fjord around which the park is centered, known for stunning Arctic landscapes and marine wildlife.

Caribou Migration Routes

Critical seasonal migratory pathways for barren-ground caribou herds crossing the park.

Inuit Cultural Sites

Archaeological remains that document centuries of Inuit subsistence and trade in the region.