The Arctic Circle is a parallel like no other, a crossing point steeped in history and legends. And the Western Arctic is the only place in Canada where you can cross it by car. On the Dempster Road, take a break at a lookout to admire the spectacle of the midnight sun lingering on the horizon. You have truly arrived in the Arctic, this mythical territory that a tiny fraction of humanity has trod on.
Also called Teetł'it Zheh, which means "at the mouth of the water", Fort McPherson is the first community you will come across on Demptser Road. This friendly Gwich’in village is located in the foothills of the Richardson Mountains, on the banks of the Peel River, a popular kayak or canoe route. Don't miss the graves of the Lost Patrol - four officers of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who perished en route to the town then known as Dawson City during the terrible winter of 1911.
Its name is difficult to pronounce, but it is a sure favorite. Perched atop a cliff at the confluence of the Mackenzie River and the Arctic Red River, Tsiigehtchic is a Gwich’in hamlet that lives on traditional fishing, hunting and trapping. A must stop on Dempster Road, where you can stroll along the riverbanks, stop at the new information center and photograph the picturesque church built 80 years ago.
Where is the perfect place to marvel at the Northern Lights? It is in the dark, far from cities and sources of light pollution, that the spectacle is contemplated in all its splendor. In the region, it is from the end of August to September that the sky darkens. Numerous routes in the Western Arctic will meet you for the striking night dance, including the Dempster route, from where you can admire the colorful waves rippling over the Richardson Mountains, and the Tuk route, where the tundra sparkles under the bewitching celestial lights.
The Western Arctic is teeming with campsites. There are two in Inuvik: those in the Ja’k and Happy Valley territorial parks. The observation tower of the former is popular with bird watchers, and the latter is located on a cliff overlooking the Mackenzie River and overlooking the Richardson Mountains. The Vadzaih Van Tshik campsite and the Gwich’in and Nitainlaii territorial parks are accessible from the Dempster road. The latter is perched on heights overlooking the Peel River. Its information center offers a fascinating foray into the daily life of the Gwich’in, from yesterday to today.
Before sliding into the Arctic Ocean, Canada’s longest river breaks into a thousand creeks and canals that are home to one of the richest ecosystems in the North. Along the way, drivers will be able to see many species of animals and birds in the region, visit one of the indigenous hunting and fishing camps and be told legends and stories of the time when the inhabitants of the delta were nomads. who roamed the region at the rhythm of the seasons.
A regional hub for the Western Arctic, the bustling little town of Inuvik, founded in the late 1950s, was the first "planned" community in the Northwest Territories. Today, it forms a vibrant mosaic where some 3,500 Inuvialuit, Gwich’in and non-Aboriginal residents coexist on the boreal plains that border the easternmost canal of the Mackenzie Delta. The tourism sector is flourishing: hotels, restaurants, art galleries and tour operators abound.
If you're visiting the area in July, the exhibits and activities at Inuvik's great Great Northern Arts Festival will keep you entertained. The event annually attracts hundreds of artists from across the polar world. Inuvik also hosts other must-see celebrations, including the Sunrise Festival in January and the Muskrat Jamboree in April. Dance, dog sled racing and traditional food, to name a few, are also featured in other events across the Western Arctic.
In Fort McPherson, don't miss your chance to visit the famous Fort McPherson Tent & Canvas store, where you can find traditional tents, bags and other souvenirs. Inuvik also has its shops for Gwich’in and Inuvialuit art, clothing and handicrafts. Treat yourself to a handy ulu half-moon knife, a pair of mittens adorned with pearls, or a Mother Hoodbard parka with a giant hood, which is sure to turn heads.
It is perhaps the most emblematic and most photographed monument in the Far North. Located in the heart of Inuvik, Our Lady of Victory Church owes its nickname - "Igloo Church" - to its immaculate cylindrical structure surmounted by a silver dome reminiscent of the old snow houses of the Inuvialuit. Paintings by local artist Mona Thrasher decorate the interior.
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