The Angmarlik Visitor Centre in Pangnirtung is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, from September through June.
The entrance fee at Auyuittuq National Park is $150 per person. There are no daily or annual membership options available.
Fly to Iqaluit (via Ottawa or Montreal), then transfer to Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq. From there, travel by boat: 28 km from Pangnirtung via Pangnirtung Fiord or 34 km from Qikiqtarjuaq across North Pangnirtung Fiord.
There are no parking options for cars, RVs, or motorcycles at Auyuittuq National Park, as it is a remote arctic wilderness accessible only by boat or snowmobile. No parking lots or overnight parking are available.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Nestled amidst the towering peaks and icy fjords of Canada’s eastern Arctic lies a pristine wilderness unlike any other – Auyuittuq National Park. Situated on the rugged landscape of Baffin Island, this frozen paradise offers intrepid adventurers a gateway to the heart of the Arctic wilderness. From majestic glaciers to rugged mountain passes, Auyuittuq beckons explorers with its dramatic landscapes and untamed beauty. Established in 1976, it encompasses over 19,000 km² and is named “the land that never melts” in Inuktitut, reflecting its glacial identity.
- Area (km²)
- 11860.84
- Annual visitors
- 253
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Auyuittuq National Park
In the Akshayuk Pass, winds can reach speeds of up to 175 km/h, making it one of the windiest places in the Arctic region. This pass is a key route for hikers and offers a unique experience of crossing the Arctic Circle through a treeless landscape lined with stunning mountain peaks.
Roughly 20% of the park is glacial, including the massive Penny Ice Cap.
Wildlife includes polar bears, Arctic foxes, caribou, and a range of Arctic seabirds.
Family programs
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Book charter flights and backcountry camping permits early; logistics are complex due to remoteness.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and be ready for variable Arctic conditions.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals like polar bears from a distance; never feed wildlife and store food securely.
Stay Informed
Check Parks Canada website for weather updates, wildlife advisories, and seasonal access changes.
Seasons
March to June: Great for winter sports, wildlife watching, and extended daylight exploration.
July to August: Peak hiking season with tundra in bloom, active wildlife, and 24-hour daylight.
September to October: Fewer crowds and stunning Arctic autumn colors.
November to February: Ideal for northern lights and Inuit cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Auyuittuq National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Auyuittuq National Park, you should stay in either Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq, as these communities offer the nearest accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds.
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The most scenic hiking trail is the Akshayuk Pass, a 97-kilometer route through arctic wilderness, steep mountains, and ice, featuring Mount Thor, the world’s tallest vertical cliff face at 4,101 feet, and other dramatic landscapes like glaciers, rock formations, and turquoise lakes. This trail crosses the Arctic Circle and includes rare vistas of the Owl River valley. It is a challenging but breathtaking hike available from late summer, typically in July and August.
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Yes, you can bring your dog, but it must be kept on a leash and under physical control at all times. This rule applies to all dogs, regardless of breed. Make sure to follow the park’s safety guidelines and regulations.
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There is no parking available for campers, motorhomes, or trailers. The park is extremely remote and accessible only by foot, ski, snowmobile, or boat, depending on the season. No vehicle larger than a snowmobile can enter the park.
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Hike or ski the 100-kilometer Akshayuk Pass, a natural corridor through rock and ice, and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Thor and Mount Asgard. Take a guided snowmobile adventure to cross the Arctic Circle or go rock climbing and mountaineering on the park’s granite peaks. You can also explore by boat or snowmobile, watch wildlife like polar bears and arctic foxes, and visit archaeological sites and the Penny Ice Cap.
