Inuvialuit cultural program

In 1984 Ivvavik National Park became the first national park to be created from an aboriginal land claim settlement; it’s co-managed by Parks Canada and the Inuvialuit (Inuit living in Canada’s western arctic). An Inuvialuit elder stays at camp with visitors, answering questions on Inuit life, sharing stories, or judging a bannock bake-off.

You can also try traditional crafts like soapstone carving, embroidery, or beading. The rhythm of polishing stone or threading a needle through sealskin will keep you from missing WiFi.

What you see

Ivvavik means nursery in Inuvialuktun and the Porcupine caribou herd — one of North America’s largest migratory populations — has its calving grounds in the park. You’re unlikely to be at camp the same times as the herd but you may see stragglers and on rare occasions, big groups are spotted.

If you bring a fishing license you can cast your line and hope for a Dolly Varden or arctic grayling.

With no sunset from late May until July 20 there’s time to photograph the British Mountain range or scan meadows for Dall’s sheep and moose. If you want to explore beyond the fence, plan a hike.

Hiking hacks

Each day Parks Canada staff arranges hikes to suit guest mood and fitness. There are no trails, so bring rivers shoes for water crossings. The first day’s hike is usually shortest — perhaps Sheep Slot canyon — giving you time to build hiking muscle.