Adventure Collective

Get Together Picnic: Fort Simpson’s Gateway to Adventure and Nature

Discover the accessible adventure of the Get Together Picnic site near Fort Simpson, where forest trails meet riverside views in the heart of the Northwest Territories. This guide offers practical details and inspiration to help you plan an invigorating day outdoors that suits casual hikers and seasoned explorers alike.

Wear sturdy footwear

The terrain includes natural dirt paths with exposed roots and stones, so choose shoes with good traction to prevent slips.

Bring extra water

Even moderate hikes in northern sun can dehydrate you quickly. Carry at least 2 liters per person, especially in summer.

Time your hike early or late

Morning or late afternoon hikes avoid the day's heat and maximize chances to catch wildlife and striking light for photography.

Pack insect repellent

Forested areas near water attract mosquitoes; using repellent will keep bites manageable during warmer seasons.

Get Together Picnic: Fort Simpson’s Gateway to Adventure and Nature

Stretching along the southern edge of Fort Simpson, the Get Together Picnic site offers more than just a place to eat—it invites you to step into the rugged charm of the Northwest Territories. This spot is a practical launchpad for an accessible day out, combining gentle terrain with immersive natural surroundings that appeal to both casual visitors and those seeking a deeper connection with the land.

The trail leading to the picnic area extends about 2.5 kilometers one way, with an elevation gain modest enough to keep the pace steady yet rewarding. The path travels through dense, spruce-laden forest, where the air carries the brisk scent of pine needles and earth, alive with the quiet hum of local birdlife. Here and there, breaks in the canopy offer sweeping views of the nearby Mackenzie River, daring you with its slow-moving currents pushing confidently beneath the sky.

The terrain remains well-defined but natural—expect firm dirt underfoot, interrupted occasionally by exposed roots and smooth stones, demanding practical footwear with solid grip. The trail skirts low hills and gentle ridges, carving out moments of shade and sunshine that rhythmically shift as the day stretches out.

In planning your visit here, timing is key. Early mornings and late afternoons bring a cooler, calmer atmosphere that makes for both comfortable hiking conditions and excellent photography opportunities. The picnic area itself is modest but well-maintained, featuring sturdy benches and flat, open spaces suitable for spreading out a meal or taking brief rests.

Hydration is vital, especially during summer months when the northern sun presses warmly overhead, nudging you to bring more water than you might initially think necessary. Lightweight layers serve well here; the weather can flip quickly between warm bursts and cool breezes. Bug spray is a wise choice too—mosquitoes take full advantage of the lush environment.

The Get Together Picnic isn’t an extreme adventure but rather a gentle engagement with a landscape that’s fiercely itself—quietly resilient and vast. The trail encourages a thoughtful pace, inviting the hiker to observe, respect, and enjoy the northern wilderness without the strain of technical challenges. It’s an ideal choice for a day outing that balances easy access with authentic outdoor presence.

For those curious about local culture, Fort Simpson’s proximity offers a meaningful link to Dene traditions and stories tied to this land. Nearby, smaller trails and riverfront spots reveal quieter corners where wildlife—moose, beavers, and a variety of birds—appear in moments that reward patient watchers.

Whether you are packing a full picnic feast or a simple snack, the Get Together Picnic location makes a practical and inviting base to absorb the natural calm, punctuated by the pulse of the river and whispering forest around you. With straightforward preparation and a readiness to read the land, this hike sets an approachable scene for adventure in the heart of Canada’s north.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Get Together Picnic trail suitable for children and beginners?

Yes, the trail is moderate in difficulty with a relatively short distance and minor elevation gain, making it accessible for families and casual hikers who maintain a steady pace.

Are pets allowed on the trail?

Pets on leash are generally permitted, but it’s important to keep them under control to protect local wildlife and preserve the natural environment.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

No, the trail includes natural, uneven ground with exposed tree roots and stones, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

What wildlife might I see along this trail?

Visitors often spot moose browsing near the riverbanks, beavers checking their lodges, and a variety of birds such as ravens, jays, and occasionally eagles soaring overhead.

Are there toilet or water facilities at the picnic site?

The Get Together Picnic area has basic bench seating but no restroom or potable water facilities, so plan accordingly.

Can I fish in the nearby Mackenzie River after the hike?

Yes, fishing is popular along the river. Be sure to have the appropriate permits and observe any local regulations regarding catch limits and seasons.

Recommended Gear

Hiking boots

Essential

Provides ankle support and grip needed on dirt trails and uneven terrain.

Water bottle or hydration pack

Essential

Hydration is critical, especially in warmer weather to prevent fatigue and dehydration.

Insect repellent

Essential

Keeps mosquitoes and blackflies from interrupting your experience during the warmer months.

Layered clothing

Essential

Helps regulate temperature as conditions shift from warm sun to cool shade or sudden winds.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • "A small bluff east of the picnic site offers unobstructed views of the Mackenzie River’s broad bends."
  • "Along the forest edge, a natural spring provides fresh water favored by local wildlife."

Wildlife

  • "Moose frequent early mornings near water edges."
  • "Beaver lodges along the riverbanks are active year-round."
  • "Northern flickers and other woodpeckers drum rhythmically through the spruce canopy."

History

"The area around Fort Simpson holds significant cultural value for the Dehcho Dene peoples, whose history and traditions are intertwined with the land and waterways here."