The visitor center, located at the Parks Canada office in Iqaluit, is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM, year-round, but closed on weekends.
The entrance fee at Quttinirpaaq National Park is $33.25 per person daily or $231.50 for an annual pass.
Fly to Resolute Bay via Ottawa or Iqaluit; charter a flight to Tanquary Fiord; reach interior locations by hiking or guided expedition.
There are no parking options, parking lots, or facilities for cars, RVs, or motorcycles at Quttinirpaaq National Park, as it is inaccessible by road.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Located on the northern tip of Ellesmere Island in Nunavut, Quttinirpaaq National Park is one of the most remote and pristine wilderness regions on Earth. Highlights include Fort Conger, Barbeau Peak (Canada’s highest point east of the Rockies), massive glaciers, and rugged fjords. Wildlife sightings may include muskoxen, arctic wolves, snowy owls, and more. Visitors must charter a flight from Resolute Bay. Summer offers continuous daylight and ideal conditions for Arctic trekking, while winter transforms the park into a serene snowscape under the polar night.
- Area (km²)
- 23472.22
- Annual visitors
- 250
- Established year
- 1988
Top 3 Facts about Quttinirpaaq National Park
The park features ancient deposits of 80-meter-thick freshwater ice shelves that extend several kilometers out over the Arctic Ocean, a unique physical feature in the polar desert environment.
Canada’s northernmost park, reaching as far as 83° latitude
Home to the 27 km Sydkap Glacier, among many others rapidly receding due to climate change
Family programs
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research the park’s facilities, weather conditions, and available activities before your trip. Consider the time of year you plan to visit and any permits or permissions required for your activities.
Pack Appropriately
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including extreme cold, high winds, and snowstorms, even in summer. Dress in layers with insulated, waterproof clothing, and bring adequate gear for protection against the elements.
Respect Wildlife
Polar bears inhabit the park, so it’s essential to be bear aware at all times. Carry bear deterrents such as bear spray, travel in groups when possible, and learn how to store food to avoid attracting bears to your campsite.
Stay Informed
If you’re unfamiliar with the Arctic environment or outdoor activities such as glacier travel or backcountry skiing, consider hiring an experienced guide or joining a guided tour for added safety and expertise.
Seasons
Spring in Quttinirpaaq National Park marks the beginning of the brief Arctic summer. During this time, temperatures start to rise, and the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation as the snow and ice begin to melt. May and June offer unique opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and migratory birds return to breed in the Arctic. Visitors can witness the spectacle of polar bears and muskoxen roaming the tundra, while birdwatchers can observe nesting colonies of seabirds along the coastline. Hiking and backpacking expeditions become more feasible as trails and terrain becomes more accessible, although travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather and lingering snow cover in some areas.
Summer is the peak season for visiting Quttinirpaaq National Park, offering the most favorable outdoor exploration and adventure conditions. The Arctic landscape comes alive with vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom across the tundra, and the sun shines around the clock, providing nearly continuous daylight. July and August are ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering expeditions, with opportunities to explore the park’s rugged mountains, vast glaciers, and remote fjords. Wildlife sightings are abundant during this time, including chances to spot elusive Arctic foxes, lemmings, and even the elusive narwhal in nearby waters. Additionally, summer is a prime time for experiencing unique Arctic phenomena such as the midnight sun and the mesmerizing displays of the Northern Lights.
Fall in Quttinirpaaq National Park brings cooler temperatures and the onset of the Arctic winter. September and October offer a quieter and more serene atmosphere in the park as visitor numbers dwindle and wildlife prepares for the long winter ahead. Hiking and outdoor activities remain possible during early autumn, although travelers should be prepared for colder weather and diminishing daylight hours. This season provides excellent opportunities for photographers to capture the stunning fall foliage and the striking contrast of colorful tundra against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Wildlife enthusiasts may also have the chance to witness the spectacle of migrating caribou or observe the final stages of polar bear and muskoxen activity before they retreat to their winter habitats.
Winter in Quttinirpaaq National Park brings extreme cold and darkness, with temperatures plummeting well below freezing and the sun disappearing for months. Despite the harsh conditions, winter offers a unique opportunity for adventurous travelers to experience the Arctic wilderness in its most pristine and secluded state. From November to April, the park becomes a frozen wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. While outdoor activities are limited due to the extreme cold and darkness, winter enthusiasts can still enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Experienced adventurers may embark on multi-day ski expeditions or winter camping trips, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the Arctic landscape and marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the polar night sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Quttinirpaaq 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 town to Quttinirpaaq National Park is Alert, located on the northern tip of Ellesmere Island in Nunavut, Canada. Alert is the northernmost permanently inhabited place in the world. To reach the park, one must typically fly to Resolute and then take a further flight from there.
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The most accessible hiking area is Tanquary Fiord, located on the northern coast of Ellesmere Island. It serves as a gateway for visitors due to its relatively easier access and is home to Black Feather Basecamp, a hub for outdoor adventures. From here, hikers can embark on various multi-day and day trips into the surrounding wilderness.
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No pets are allowed. This rule applies to all visitors, regardless of the duration of their stay or the type of accommodation they use.
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You cannot park an RV, camper, trailer, or motorhome at Quttinirpaaq National Park because there are no designated campsites or facilities for such vehicles. The park is geared towards backcountry camping with tents and portable stoves.
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The best time to visit is from late May to mid-August, when temperatures are milder and there is 24 hours of daylight. This period allows for favorable outdoor exploration and adventure conditions. However, there may be park closures between mid-July and early August due to high river water levels.