Arctic · Northwest Territories
Aulavik National Park
Banks Island musk ox country.
Province
Northwest Territories
Established
1992
Size
12,274 km²
Coordinates
73.72°, -119.95°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Aulavik National Park
On the north end of Banks Island in the high Arctic, Aulavik shelters the world's largest concentration of musk oxen. Access is by charter aircraft from Inuvik via the Inuvialuit community of Sachs Harbour.
Why visit
- World's largest musk ox population (~70,000)
- Thomsen River canoe — Canada's northernmost canoeable river
- Inuvialuit cultural connection
Things to do
Plan your days.
Thomsen River canoe (two weeks)
kayaking
Backpacking the tundra plateaus
hiking
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Operator-supported wilderness camping
Best time to visit
- Spring
- Snowbound.
- Summer
- Late June to early August.
- Fall
- Rapid freeze.
- Winter
- Closed.
- Peak
- July.
- Shoulder
- Late June or early August.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Throughout the tundra.
Common species
Musk ox · Arctic fox · Snowy owl
Signature species
Musk ox · Peary caribou · Polar bear (coastal)
Wildlife safety
Polar bears at the coast; armed guides required.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Sachs Harbour
- Inuvik
Nearby attractions
- Tuktut Nogait (mainland)
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
7 day
Thomsen River expedition
10–14 days canoeing under the midnight sun.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Aulavik National Park.
Can I camp in Aulavik National Park?+
Yes. Aulavik National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Aulavik National Park?+
Yes — campsite reservations are required during peak season and open via the Parks Canada Reservation Service in mid-winter.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Aulavik National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 3/10. Better suited to teens and adults — expect remote conditions and limited services.
When is the best time to visit Aulavik National Park?+
July. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include musk oxen, Peary caribou and polar bears (on the coast). Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
RV access is limited or unavailable; this park is best explored by tent, backcountry travel or day trips from nearby communities.
How many days should I spend here?+
Ten to fourteen days.
Nearby parks
