Arctic · Yukon
Ivvavik National Park
Canada's first park created through a land-claim agreement.
Province
Yukon
Established
1984
Size
9,750 km²
Coordinates
69.08°, -139.75°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Ivvavik National Park
Ivvavik ('a place for giving birth' in Inuvialuktun) protects calving grounds of the Porcupine caribou herd on Yukon's Arctic coast. The Firth River cuts through it — one of the planet's great northern rafting trips.
Why visit
- Firth River rafting (10–12 days)
- Calving grounds of the Porcupine caribou
- Inuvialuit co-management
- Beringian landscape never glaciated
Things to do
Plan your days.
Firth River rafting expedition
kayaking
Sheep Creek base camp (Parks Canada operated)
interpretive
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Operator-supported wilderness camping only
Best time to visit
- Spring
- Ice-bound.
- Summer
- Late June to early August: short rafting window.
- Fall
- Quick freeze.
- Winter
- Closed.
- Peak
- July.
- Shoulder
- Late June or early August.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
From rafts on the river or at the base camp.
Common species
Caribou · Musk ox (occasional) · Snowy owl
Signature species
Porcupine caribou herd · Grizzly bear · Musk ox
Wildlife safety
Only travel with licensed Arctic outfitters.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Inuvik, NT
- Aklavik, NT
Nearby attractions
- Aulavik (NT)
- Tuktut Nogait (NT)
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
7 day
Firth River expedition
10–12 day rafting trip with full outfitter support.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Ivvavik National Park.
Can I camp in Ivvavik National Park?+
Yes. Ivvavik 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 Ivvavik 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 Ivvavik 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 Ivvavik 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 Porcupine caribou, grizzlies and musk oxen. 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 twelve days for a Firth River expedition.
Nearby parks
