Polar Bears, Ancient Peaks, and Fjords in Canada's Far North
Polar Bears, Ancient Peaks, and Fjords in Canada's Far North
Torngat Mountains National Park exists at the edge of what most travelers will ever experience. Located at the northern tip of Labrador, accessible only by charter aircraft or boat, this 9,700-square-kilometre park protects some of the oldest and most dramatic landscape in eastern North America. The name comes from the Inuktitut word Torngait, meaning ‘place of spirits,’ and the mountains live up to it: jagged peaks rising directly from glacier-carved fjords, coastlines scattered with icebergs drifting south on the Labrador Current, and tundra stretching in every direction without a road, a structure, or a trail sign in sight.
The park was officially established in 2008, following the enactment of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement and the Nunavik Inuit Land Claims Agreement. It is co-managed with the Nunatsiavut Government and reflects thousands of years of Inuit presence in the mountains, with archaeological sites dating back nearly 7,000 years scattered throughout the fjords and coastal valleys. The rocks that make up these mountains are among the oldest on Earth, dated at approximately 3.6 to 3.9 billion years old. Mount Caubvick, known in Quebec as d’Iberville, rises to 1,652 metres and is the highest peak in Canada east of the Rockies.
Wildlife in Torngat is extraordinary and demands serious preparation. Polar bears move along the coast and through the fjords throughout the visitor season. Parks Canada strongly recommends that all visitors hire a trained Inuit polar bear guard when hiking or moving through the park. Caribou traverse the tundra plateau, and Torngat is one of the only places in the world where black bears live on open Arctic tundra. Peregrine falcons and golden eagles nest along the cliff faces.
The practical gateway for visiting is the Torngat Mountains Base Camp and Research Station, located adjacent to the southern park boundary near Saglek Fjord. The base camp, owned and operated by Inuit, runs guided packages from mid-July through late August, including helicopter excursions, boat tours of the fjords, cultural experiences with Inuvialuit and Inuit hosts, and guided hikes. Packages range from three-day experiences to full seven-day expeditions.
Most travelers stage their trip through Happy Valley-Goose Bay, the regional hub in Labrador, with charter flights arranged through licensed operators. Goose Bay offers lodges, hotels, and a small selection of vacation rental options for travelers spending a night or two before or after the expedition. For those traveling as a small group, booking a package through the base camp operators well in advance is the most reliable way to experience the park.
Contact Parks Canada’s Torngat Mountains office at 709-922-1290 or visit parks.canada.ca/torngats for current visitor information, permit requirements, and licensed operator lists. The park’s visitor season runs from mid-July to late August. Book your accommodations near Goose Bay for your Torngat Mountains National Park expedition.
Seasons
April–June: lingering snow cover, early thaw, and breathtaking winter-to-spring transitions—best for experienced explorers.
July–August: mild weather, sea access open, prime wildlife viewing (polar bears, caribou), and vibrant tundra blooms.
September–November: autumn colors, caribou migration, fewer visitors, and variable weather—ideal for solitude.
December–March: harsh Arctic winter with heavy snow, strong winds, and best for seasoned adventurers only.
Top 3 Facts about Torngat Mountains National Park
The gneisses that form the Torngat Mountains are among the oldest rocks on Earth, dated at approximately 3.6 to 3.9 billion years old. These Precambrian rocks are part of the Canadian Shield and represent some of the earliest material on the planet’s surface. Mount Caubvick, rising to 1,652 metres, is the highest peak in eastern Canada outside of the Rocky Mountains.
Torngat Mountains National Park is the only place in the world where black bears are known to regularly inhabit Arctic tundra. The park also supports polar bears along its coastal areas. Both species require trained Inuit bear guards to accompany visitors at all times in the backcountry, a requirement formally recommended by Parks Canada.
Archaeological sites within the Torngat Mountains date back nearly 7,000 years, documenting continuous Inuit and pre-Inuit occupation of the land. The park is co-managed with the Nunatsiavut Government, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual connection the Labrador Inuit have maintained with these mountains for millennia.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
The park’s visitor season runs mid-July through late August only. All visits are arranged through the Torngat Mountains Base Camp or licensed operators. Contact Parks Canada at 709-922-1290 or parks.canada.ca/torngats to register your trip and access the list of licensed operators. Most package trips book out months in advance. All visitors must attend an orientation and safety briefing upon arrival at Base Camp.
Pack Appropriately
Pack full expedition-weight layering including insulated base layers, waterproof outer layers, and wind protection suitable for Arctic coastal conditions. Bring sturdy waterproof hiking footwear, sun protection, insect repellent for summer, and a comprehensive first-aid kit. Bear spray and a noise-making device are required. Packages through licensed operators often include tents, meals, and guided logistics.
Respect Wildlife
Polar bears are present year-round along the coast and in the fjords. Trained Inuit bear guards are strongly recommended by Parks Canada for all backcountry travel within the park. Never approach, follow, or photograph wildlife from close range. Caribou and black bears also inhabit the tundra; maintain safe distances from all animals. Do not approach or disturb archaeological sites or Inuit cultural features.
Stay Informed
Contact Parks Canada’s Torngat Mountains office at 709-922-1290 before and during your visit for current weather, ice conditions, and any emergency safety alerts. Weather changes rapidly in subarctic Labrador and can delay flights or boat transfers for multiple days. All visitors must carry communication devices and register emergency contact details with Parks Canada before entering.
- Area (km²)
- 6026.98
- Established year
- 2008
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Torngat Mountains 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 the park is Happy Valley-Goose Bay, located in western Labrador. This city serves as a significant stop for travelers heading to the park, as it is a hub for air travel and other transportation services.
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The Nakvak Brook Trek is often considered one of the most scenic trails, offering breathtaking views of Saglek Fiord and the valley, as well as a significant cultural site marked by a large inukshuk that was commemorated in 2009. This trek begins at the mouth of Nakvak Brook and ascends to its headwaters, providing a mix of rugged terrain and serene landscapes. The trail includes hiking along the north shore of Nakvak Lake and following caribou trails on the tundra.
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Yes, you can bring your dog, but it must be leashed and you need a permit. The park allows dogs to accompany you in certain areas. Contact the park for more information.
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There is no parking available because there are no roads or infrastructure in the park. Access is only by boat or chartered aircraft. Camping is limited to backcountry camping, with no facilities for RVs, campers, or trailers.
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Visitors can explore on guided or unguided day hikes, interpretive walks, overnight camping trips, and multi-day backpacking treks. The Torngat Mountains Base Camp and Research Station, located on Saglek Fjord, offers opportunities for hardcore hiking and scouting expeditions via Zodiacs and helicopters, often accompanied by an Inuit bear guard. You can also discover the park’s Inuit cultural history through light interpretive day hikes and follow ancient paths marked by inukshuks on multi-day backpacking excursions.