Northern · Northwest Territories
Nahanni National Park Reserve
Virginia Falls — twice as tall as Niagara — and the legendary South Nahanni River.
Province
Northwest Territories
Established
1972
Size
30,050 km²
Coordinates
61.55°, -125.38°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Nahanni National Park Reserve
One of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nahanni's South Nahanni River cuts a series of canyons up to 1,200 m deep before plunging over Virginia Falls (Náįlįcho). Access is by float plane only.
Why visit
- Virginia Falls — 96 m of free-falling water
- South Nahanni River canoe expedition
- Cirque of the Unclimbables granite spires
- Pure wilderness on a colossal scale
Things to do
Plan your days.
South Nahanni River canoe trip (10–21 days)
kayaking
Day trip flight to Virginia Falls
scenic drive
Multi-day trekking with outfitter
hiking
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Virginia Falls campground (fly-in)
- Wilderness river-side camping along the South Nahanni
Best time to visit
- Spring
- River break-up in June.
- Summer
- Late June to August: paddling window.
- Fall
- Cooling fast.
- Winter
- Closed to visitation.
- Peak
- July.
- Shoulder
- Late June or early August.
Location
Find Nahanni National Park Reserve on the map.
61.550°, -125.383° · Northwest Territories, Canada.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Riverside, especially around Virginia Falls and the canyons.
Common species
Black bear · Moose · Bald eagle
Signature species
Dall sheep · Mountain goat · Grizzly bear · Wolf
Wildlife safety
Bushwhacking-grade conditions; outfitter recommended for all but expert paddlers.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Fort Simpson
- Nahanni Butte
Nearby attractions
- Nááts'ihch'oh National Park Reserve (upstream)
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Virginia Falls day trip
Floatplane in and out with a 4-hour walk to the falls.
7 day
Nahanni Nature Camp
Base camp at Virginia Falls with guided hikes.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Nahanni National Park Reserve.
Can I camp in Nahanni National Park Reserve?+
Yes. Nahanni National Park Reserve operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Nahanni National Park Reserve?+
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 Nahanni National Park Reserve family friendly?+
Our family score is 4/10. Better suited to teens and adults — expect remote conditions and limited services.
When is the best time to visit Nahanni National Park Reserve?+
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 Dall sheep, grizzly bears, mountain goats and wolves. 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?+
Three days for a fly-in; two to three weeks for a full river expedition.
Nearby parks
