At Nahanni National Park Reserve, the Fort Simpson office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 12 noon and 1 PM to 5 PM, year-round except weekends. From July 1 to August 31, it is open daily. The Nahanni Butte office is closed from September 1 to June 30, but open Monday to Friday during the summer months.
Entrance fees for Nahanni National Park Reserve are payable at the Parks Canada office in Fort Simpson; specific prices are not listed, but they are part of the overall trip costs which can start from $6640 for seven-day canoe and rafting trips.
Air: Fly into Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, then charter flights to Fort Simpson or Nahanni Butte. River Access: Paddle via South Nahanni River (requires wilderness experience). Guided Tours: Available from Yellowknife or Fort Simpson; typically include transportation, accommodations, meals, guided activities.
There are no designated parking areas within Nahanni National Park Reserve, as it is inaccessible by road. No parking options for cars, RVs, or motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Nahanni National Park Reserve in the Northwest Territories is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for Virginia Falls—twice the height of Niagara—and dramatic canyons plunging over 1,000 meters. Explore legendary places like the mysterious Headless Valley, hike trails such as Flat River Loop, or paddle the South Nahanni River. Vacation homes nearby offer cozy cabins and spacious lodges with rustic charm and modern comforts. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, Nahanni provides a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience.
- Area (km²)
- 18668.34
- Annual visitors
- 736
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Nahanni National Park Reserve
The South Nahanni River is an antecedent river, maintaining its course despite the slow rise of the surrounding mountains, carving canyons with walls reaching up to 1,000 meters in height.
Virginia Falls, at 96 meters (315 feet), is twice the height of Niagara Falls.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 for exceptional biodiversity, geological features, and stunning landscapes.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research thoroughly: plan transportation, permits, accommodations, and wilderness experiences ahead due to remoteness and limited facilities.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layered clothing suitable for widely varying temperatures; include waterproof gear, sturdy footwear, camping essentials, bear spray, and emergency supplies.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain safe wildlife distances, store food properly, avoid wildlife disturbance; use bear-safe practices, carry bear spray, make noise on trails.
Stay Informed
Be prepared for extreme remoteness; carry navigation gear, emergency supplies, ample food and water; stay updated on park conditions and alerts via official park resources.
Seasons
Melting snow creates spectacular waterfalls and thrilling paddling conditions on Nahanni River; wildlife emerges, migratory birds return, providing excellent wildlife watching. Trails and rivers become increasingly accessible.
Peak season with mild weather; ideal for hiking rugged trails, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing. Virginia Falls and canyons fully accessible; long daylight hours perfect for outdoor exploration.
Vibrant foliage, fewer visitors, ideal for hiking, paddling, wildlife watching (bears preparing for winter, migratory bird activity), spectacular photographic opportunities in crisp autumn air.
Extreme cold and snow; opportunities for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in surrounding areas; Northern Lights viewing; limited accessibility and services require careful planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Nahanni National Park Reserve has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Nahanni National Park Reserve is Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. You need to fly to Fort Simpson after reaching Edmonton, Alberta, to access the park.
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The Virginia Falls trail is one of the most scenic, featuring a 30-storey waterfall and heart-pounding views of Sluice Box Rapids and Mason’s Rock. This trail ends at a cobble beach below the falls, perfect for picnicking or launching a canoe. The trail offers stunning views and access to significant landmarks like the falls and the rapids.
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You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash at all times. Dogs are allowed at campsites, with a limit of one dog per site. However, be aware that dogs can provoke defensive behavior in bears, which are present in the park.
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There is no parking available within the park. It is extremely remote and inaccessible by road, so there are no roads or parking lots. Parking is available in nearby areas like Fort Simpson or at the South Nahanni Air base.
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Explore the Cirque of the Unclimbables, a legendary mountaineering destination, and hike through the rugged valleys and mountain passes of the Ragged Range. Take a flightseeing excursion to view the park’s majestic landscapes and iconic landmarks like Virginia Falls, which is twice the height of Niagara Falls. Navigate the crystal-clear waters of the South Nahanni River, ranked among National Geographic’s Top 20 Tourism Adventures in the World, by canoe or raft.