Calling all adventure lovers for Arctic camping! In the northernmost part of Canada, Nunavut offers a unique camping experience with huge challenges and even bigger rewards. If you have dreamt about a place where the sun doesn’t go down in the summer and dazzling Northern Lights fill the night skies, look no further.
Plan Your Arctic Adventure
Imagine waking up to the breathtaking scene of ice-covered landscapes and inhaling the freshness of the Arctic air. Camping in Nunavut blends all the adventures of the wilderness activity with the serene beauty of the remote location. Whether it's pitching your tent or hiking almost anywhere in the open tundra, camping in Nunavut will never fail to provide an amazing experience.
Gear Up For The Cold
Before you head out, you'll want to gear up with the best arctic camping gear possible. You can't just bring your usual equipment with you, make sure your packing list includes the following:
Four-season tent with sturdy poles and a waterproof fly. It should also be able to withstand strong winds.
High-quality, insulated sleeping bags rated well below zero
Thermal clothing that will keep you warm without excess bulk
Portable stoves and fuel for reliable cooking in sub-zero temperatures
GPS and satellite communication devices for navigation and safety
Polar Bear Safety
Camping in polar bear territory requires extra precautions. Always set up camp in areas with clear visibility and avoid places where bears are likely to roam, such as along shorelines. Keep food and scented items in bear-proof containers, and store them away from your sleeping area. Consider carrying bear deterrents, like bear spray or flares, and always have a lookout for potential sightings. Never approach a polar bear, and if one comes near your camp, follow local guidelines for handling encounters.
Setting up Camp
When setting up camp in the Arctic, location is crucial. Choose elevated ground to avoid the dangers of shifting ice or flooding. Make sure your tent is securely anchored to withstand harsh winds. A layer of insulation under your tent will help reduce heat loss from the frozen ground. Additionally, set up wind barriers using snow or natural terrain to create a more comfortable and sheltered environment.
Camping Areas For You
Nunavut has many opportunities for camping within its national and territorial parks, each as unique as the next. Among many, here are a few top choices for Arctic camping:
Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park – accessible just outside of Iqaluit and offering panoramic vistas and accessible sites to camp
Katannilik Territorial Park is excellent for hikers seeking to pitch a tent to camp
Auyuittuq National Park, with its dramatic fjords and glaciers, seems to be a paradise for adventurers but demands experience and preparation with its rugged terrain
Setting Up Comfortable & Safe Camp
Location is everything when it comes to setting up camp. Feel free to camp anywhere away from archaeological sites and other dedicated areas. Naturally, wind-protected areas should be prioritized and usually feature boulders or snowbanks.
Anchor your tents to large rocks as securely as possible – the Arctic winds are a force to be considered. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and store food securely to avoid attracting animals.
Enjoying the Arctic Experience
Arctic camping doesn't just provide a way to challenge yourself but immerses you into Nunavut's staggering beauty. So, what are some other activities to round out your experience?
Wildlife Watching: Polar bears, Arctic foxes, and numerous bird species make their home throughout Nunavut. You get the chance to spot teeming wildlife all around.
Photography: In the summer, take some otherworldly shots of the Midnight Sun or catch hold of the Aurora Borealis in the winter, as clear skies create the perfect backdrop with vivid hues to light up the sky.
Inuit Culture: Despite the isolated camping grounds, you’ll be close to an Inuit community. Meet locals and learn about their culture, traditions, and lifestyle. It's a very humbling experience that adds meaning to your adventure.
Whether you are a novice or an expert-level camper, create lifelong memories of Arctic camping in Nunavut. It's your chance to experience the North in a whole new way.
Pack your camping gear and head to the True North. There’s much more to learn about Nunavut—the culture, brilliant landscapes, and endless adventure.
Why not plan your Arctic trip today?