Qausuittuq National Park does not have a specific visitor center with set hours; it is open year-round, but for inquiries, you can contact the Iqaluit or Resolute offices during their operating hours.
The entrance fee at Qausuittuq National Park is $16 per person per day for excursions, $33.25 per person per night for camping, and $231.50 for an annual backcountry pass. Admission is free for those 17 and under.
Charter flights from Resolute Bay or Cambridge Bay; limited expedition cruises in summer; experienced operators and advanced booking required.
There are no parking lots or infrastructure for parking cars, RVs, or motorcycles at Qausuittuq National Park. Parking is not permitted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Located on Bathurst Island, Qausuittuq is a serene Arctic haven whose name means “place where the sun doesn’t rise.” Explore the vast tundra and coastal fjords under the midnight sun or winter’s polar night. The Polar Bear Pass is a migratory corridor for Peary caribou and Arctic wildlife. With no formal trails, visitors can join guided excursions to spot arctic foxes, muskoxen, snowy owls, and more. Access requires chartered flights from Resolute Bay or Arctic cruises. The park is a true wilderness, offering profound isolation, natural splendor, and unforgettable adventure.
- Area (km²)
- 6839.7
- Annual visitors
- 250
- Established year
- 2015
Top 3 Facts about Qausuittuq National Park
This Arctic wilderness receives less than 130 mm of precipitation annually, fostering uniquely adapted wildlife and flora in one of the driest and harshest environments globally.
One of the most remote parks in Canada—accessible only by air or Arctic sea routes
Features rugged mountains, coastal fjords, and expansive tundra carved by glaciers
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research the park thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its regulations, weather conditions, and available facilities. Ensure you have all necessary permits and permissions for your visit.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers and bring clothing suitable for Arctic conditions, including insulated outerwear, waterproof boots, hats, and gloves. Pack high-energy snacks, plenty of water, and essential survival gear such as a first-aid kit, compass, map, and emergency communication device.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a safe distance and refrain from approaching or feeding wild animals. Be especially cautious of polar bears, which are known to inhabit the area. Carry bear deterrents and know how to use them properly.
Stay Informed
Consider joining a guided expedition or hiring experienced local guides familiar with the area. They can provide valuable insights and safety guidance and enhance your overall experience while exploring the park.
Seasons
Spring marks the transition from winter to summer in Qausuittuq National Park, with increasing daylight hours and rising temperatures. It’s a time of renewal in the Arctic, as wildlife emerges from winter hibernation, and migratory birds return to the region. Spring offers unique opportunities for wildlife photography and observing the park’s flora and fauna as it awakens from the winter slumber. However, travelers should be prepared for variable weather conditions and lingering snow cover, particularly in the early spring months.
The summer brings relatively milder temperatures to the Arctic, making it the most popular time to visit Qausuittuq National Park. During this season, visitors can enjoy 24-hour daylight, allowing for extended exploration and outdoor activities. Hiking and backpacking are popular pursuits, offering opportunities to traverse the park’s rugged terrain and witness its stunning landscapes, including ice-capped mountains and Arctic tundra. Wildlife viewing is also excellent during the summer, with chances to spot polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic foxes, and various bird species. Additionally, kayaking or boating along the park’s fjords and coastlines provides a unique perspective of the Arctic environment.
Fall in Qausuittuq National Park brings cooler temperatures and the onset of Arctic winter. While visitor numbers decline during this season, it offers a chance to experience the changing colors of the tundra and witness the transition to winter. Hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities continue, with the added possibility of observing migratory bird species as they begin their journey south. However, travelers should be prepared for colder temperatures and diminishing daylight hours as winter approaches.
Winter transforms Qausuittuq National Park into a serene, snow-covered landscape, offering unique experiences for adventurous travelers. While temperatures plummet well below freezing, winter provides opportunities for activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The long Arctic nights also offer excellent conditions for viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, adding a magical touch to the winter wilderness. However, travel during this season requires careful planning and preparation for extreme cold and limited daylight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Qausuittuq 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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The closest city to Qausuittuq National Park is Resolute Bay, located on Cornwallis Island in Nunavut, Canada. Resolute Bay is the starting point for chartered flights to the park. From Resolute Bay, visitors can fly to the park via private charter aircraft.
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There is no hiking trail in Qausuittuq National Park that is widely recognized for its scenery, as the park is primarily known for its arctic tundra and wildlife rather than extensive hiking trails. For scenic hiking, Auyuittuq National Park, with its Akshayuk Pass, is a more notable destination, offering a 97km route through breathtaking mountain scenery and the world’s tallest vertical cliff face, Mount Thor.
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Pets, including dogs and service animals, are not allowed, except for Inuit sled dogs. This rule is to protect the wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Followers of Inuit traditions are the only exception.
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There are no designated campsites, and the park does not specify facilities for RVs, so it is not recommended to bring an RV or any large camper due to the lack of suitable parking and camping areas. Camping is allowed in most areas except for specific restricted sites.
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The best time to visit is during the summer months from June to September, when temperatures are milder and days are longer, allowing for 24-hour daylight and various outdoor activities. This period is ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and other Arctic adventures.