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| Magnificent mountains, rivers
raging through vertical canyons, glacier cut valleys so vast
they can take days to cross. This is Canada's north. Now comprised
of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, this is a fascinating
region from both a cultural and natural perspective. |
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| On April 1, 1999,
an inaugural ceremony took place to
celebrate the birth of the Territory of
Nunavut. The Department of Indian and
Northern Affairs Canada has provided an information
sheet
(version français) with details on this event
and on the creation of this new territory. |
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| Within these rugged barrens,
huge herds of caribou, freely roaming
wood bison mix with the majestic musk
oxen. All of these have played a
significant roll in the history and
culture of the native peoples. |
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| If
you're interest is wildlife, the
opportunities here are world class.
Canada's north has some of the world's
largest and busiest wildlife conservation
areas. There are more than twelve
Migratory Bird Sanctuaries and
remarkably, five Ramsar Sites. Water fowl
and shore birds descend on these areas by
the millions. Cranes, pelicans, arctic
terns, murres, snow geese, loons, swans, |
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Tanquery
Fjiord in Ellesmere Island
National Park Reserve
Photo coutesy Parks Canada |
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and
innumerable species of duck may all be easily
observed.
The arctic wolf and fox can often be seen in the
flatlands while the mountains may reward you with
a view of the Dall sheep, eagles, falcons or
maybe even a grizzly bear.
Many sections of the coast team with wildlife,
particularly with bearded seals. Where the seals
congregate you're sure to find polar bears either
actively hunting or patiently waiting for freeze
up. Whales are often observed just off shore.
Caribou are adapted to their northern environment
with hooves designed for winter walking and, like
the polar bear, they have hollow fur which acts
as extra insulation for warmth and for the polar
bear, adds buoyancy in the water. |
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| Pangnirtung, Photo
courtesy Parks Canada |
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Hikers
and backpackers will find endless
opportunities in the Mackenzie Mountains
outside Yellowknife. Remember in the
north, hiking more often than not,
requires route finding and well honed
survival skills. The Canol Heritage Trail
is a good example offering some of the
most challenging hiking on the continent. |
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| A
hauntingly beautiful area rich in historical
relevance, it requires good planning and outdoor
skills. The wildlife, and the spectacular valley
views, will be your reward if you accept the
challenge. Auyuittuq National park is world
renowned for its climbing routes. The continuous
daylight of June and July make those months ideal
for climbing.
Mountain biking
is just another one of the many ways to explore
the north. If you looking for developed trails
you can enjoy some of the 50 km of trails in Wood
Buffalo National Park or take a stretch of the
famous Canole trail that can take you from Norman
Wells in NWT to Macmillan Pass at the edge of the
Yukon.
As you might
expect, winter sports are well represented in the
north, with skiing and snowshoeing opportunities
abounding. Cross country ski trails can be found
in many communities including Fort Smith, Hay
River and Yellowknife. Auyuittuq National park on
Baffin Island is a world renown destination for
ski touring in the spring. Dog sledding, a skill
almost lost with the advent of the ski-doo, is
having a major resurgence. Excursions are
available which can be tailored to your every
need and desire. This will allow you to either
relax and enjoy the passing scenery or actively
participate, by driving your own team. The
spectacular dance of the northern lights will no
doubt accompany on your journey and become the
highlight of your evenings, leaving you with
memories to cherish for a lifetime.
If canoeing ,
kayaking or rafting are what you're after,
Nunavut and the Northwest Territories have some
of the best in North America. The rivers come in
all degrees of difficulty. The Slave, Coppermine,
the Thelon, the Nahanni and the mighty Mackenzie
which stretches from Yellow Knife to the Beaufort
Sea, offer endless possibilities which attract
paddlers from all over the world. The newly
designated Aulavik National park is represented
by the Thompson. The Thelon Game Sanctuary can
best be seen on a river trip through its heart on
the Thelon River.
Canada's north
is becoming more accessible through air travel,
making it a very popular destination for people
seeking ultimate adventure and to see and
appreciate the truly wild and naturally beautiful
places that only the far north have to offer.
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| Adventure Sports In the Northwest
and Nunavut Territories |
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Regions
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Visiting
from outside Canada:
Depending on your country of
origin you may have little to
understand or adapt to when you
visit Canada. On the other hand
many of Canada's customs, its
commerce and cultural may be very
new to some you. We have put
together a list of helpful
information to assist you in your
planning and later when you have
reached your destination.
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