How to Visit Auyuittuq National Park: Your Complete Travel Guide

Auyuittuq National Park, meaning "the land that never melts" in Inuktitut, is an awe-inspiring expanse of Arctic wilderness located on Baffin Island in Nunavut, Canada. Renowned for its towering granite peaks, sweeping glaciers, and deep fjords, the park offers adventurers a rare opportunity to explore one of the most remote and unspoiled environments on Earth. Whether you're an avid hiker, rock climber, or simply a lover of pristine wilderness, Auyuittuq promises an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your journey, including how to get there, what to do, the best times to visit, and where to stay.

How to Get There

Reaching Auyuittuq National Park is an adventure in itself, requiring careful planning due to its remote location. The primary gateway to the park is the Inuit community of Pangnirtung, a small settlement on the eastern coast of Baffin Island. To get there, you'll first need to fly to Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, which is serviced by regular flights from major Canadian cities like Ottawa, Montreal, and Yellowknife. From Iqaluit, you can catch a connecting flight to Pangnirtung.

Alternatively, the northern entrance to Auyuittuq National Park can be accessed via the community of Qikiqtarjuaq, also reachable by air from Iqaluit. Once you arrive in either Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq, transportation to the park’s entrance can be arranged by boat during the summer or by snowmobile in the winter.

What to Do in Auyuittuq National Park: A Detailed Guide

Auyuittuq National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities beyond the famous Akshayuk Pass. Here’s a closer look at the exciting adventures that await you.

Hiking in Auyuittuq National Park

While the Akshayuk Pass is the most well-known hiking route, the park offers several other trails that showcase its stunning landscapes:

• Akshayuk Pass: The crown jewel of Auyuittuq, this 97-kilometer route traverses the heart of the park. The multi-day trek, which typically takes between 8 to 12 days, offers hikers an immersive experience through glaciers, fjords, and towering granite peaks, including Mount Thor and Mount Asgard. The pass is unmarked, demanding strong navigation skills and a high level of physical endurance.
• Overlord Trail: Starting near the northern entrance of the park in Qikiqtarjuaq, this trail is a shorter but still challenging hike. It takes you through spectacular scenery, including views of the Coronation Glacier and the majestic Overlord and Razorback Mountains. This multi-day hike is perfect for those seeking a less strenuous yet equally rewarding experience.
• Weasel River Valley: A section of the Akshayuk Pass that can be explored on its own. This hike offers stunning views of Mount Thor and the Weasel River, with options for side hikes to explore the surrounding terrain. It's an excellent option for those looking to experience part of the Akshayuk Pass without committing to the entire trek.
• Summit Lake Loop: For those seeking a shorter hike, the Summit Lake Loop provides an accessible route with incredible views. Starting from Summit Lake, this trail offers panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks and glaciers, making it ideal for a day hike.

Glacier Trekking in Auyuittuq National Park

Auyuittuq is home to several massive glaciers, each offering unique opportunities for exploration:

• Coronation Glacier: Located near the northern entrance, this glacier is a highlight for trekkers starting from Qikiqtarjuaq. Accessible from the Overlord Trail, it offers stunning views of its icy expanse. The Coronation Glacier is perfect for ice climbing and glacier trekking, providing a close-up experience of crevasses and ice formations.
• Penny Ice Cap: A massive ice field that feeds many of the park’s glaciers, including the Coronation Glacier. Experienced mountaineers can attempt to cross portions of the ice cap, a challenging endeavor requiring advanced skills in glacier travel and cold-weather survival.
• Turner Glacier: Near the southern end of the Akshayuk Pass, this glacier offers a remote and challenging trekking experience. Reaching Turner Glacier often involves navigating through rugged terrain, rewarding trekkers with an untouched Arctic landscape.
• Caribou Glacier: Accessible from the Akshayuk Pass, this glacier is a great option for those looking for a more accessible glacier trekking experience. It’s ideal for day trips and provides a glimpse of the park’s icy wonders without the commitment of a multi-day expedition.

When glacier trekking in Auyuittuq National Park, proper preparation is crucial. Ensure you have the necessary gear, including crampons, ice axes, and ropes, and consider hiring a local guide for added safety.

Rock Climbing and Mountaineering

For those with a passion for rock climbing, Auyuittuq National Park is a dream destination. The park’s granite peaks, particularly Mount Thor and Mount Asgard, attract climbers from around the world:

• Mount Thor: Known for having the world’s tallest vertical cliff, Mount Thor rises 1,250 meters (4,101 feet) and is a coveted challenge for experienced climbers. The sheer granite face of Mount Thor demands technical skill and advanced climbing expertise.
• Mount Asgard: Famous for its twin cylindrical summits, Mount Asgard offers another challenging ascent. Climbing Mount Asgard requires careful planning and technical proficiency, with the added challenge of the remote and harsh environment.

Backcountry Skiing and Snowshoeing

In the spring, Auyuittuq National Park transforms into a paradise for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing:

• Spring Skiing: The best time for skiing and snowshoeing is from April to May, when the snow is firm and stable. The park’s vast, snow-covered landscape offers pristine conditions for these activities, with opportunities to traverse glaciers and explore remote areas.
• Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing allows visitors to explore the park’s frozen tundra and valleys at a slower pace. It’s an excellent way to experience the Arctic wilderness during the winter and early spring months.

Wildlife Watching

Auyuittuq National Park’s remote wilderness is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife:

• Arctic Foxes and Caribou: Visitors may spot Arctic foxes and caribou roaming the tundra, especially during the summer months when the animals are more active.
• Birdwatching: The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with species such as snowy owls, peregrine falcons, and gyrfalcons frequently seen. Summer is the best time for birdwatching as many migratory species return to the Arctic.
• Polar Bears: While less common, polar bears can occasionally be seen in the coastal areas of the park, particularly near the northern entrance.

Kayaking and Canoeing

For those visiting in the summer months, kayaking or canoeing along the park’s fjords offers a unique perspective:

• Pangnirtung Fjord: This area is popular for paddling, offering opportunities to see marine wildlife such as seals and whales. The fjord’s calm waters and stunning cliffside views make it a perfect spot for kayaking.
• Qikiqtarjuaq: The waters around Qikiqtarjuaq also provide excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities, with access to remote areas and the chance to see the park’s dramatic landscapes from the water.

Fishing

Arctic char fishing is possible in the rivers and lakes within and around the park. Fishing licenses are required and can be obtained locally, with late summer being the best time to fish when the rivers are free of ice.

Photography

Auyuittuq National Park is a photographer’s dream, offering:

• Midnight Sun: In summer, the Midnight Sun provides endless hours of soft, golden light, perfect for capturing the park’s stunning landscapes.
• Northern Lights: In winter, the park’s dark skies offer the perfect backdrop for photographing the Northern Lights, a truly magical experience.

Best Time to Visit Auyuittuq National Park

The best time to visit Auyuittuq National Park largely depends on the activities you wish to pursue and your tolerance for Arctic weather conditions. The park is accessible year-round, but each season offers a different experience:

• Summer (June to August): The most popular time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The long daylight hours, including the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, allow for endless exploration. Summer is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
• Fall (September to October): Early fall offers a quieter experience with stunning autumn colors. Temperatures begin to drop quickly, and snow can return, making some trails more challenging. This shoulder season is perfect for those looking to avoid the summer crowds.
• Spring (April to May): Ideal for snow-based activities like backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and glacier trekking. The snow conditions are excellent, and the days are getting longer, providing more daylight for exploration.
• Winter (November to March): Winter is the least popular time to visit due to extreme cold and harsh weather conditions, with temperatures often plummeting below -20°C (-4°F). However, winter offers the chance to see the Northern Lights and experience the park in its most pristine state.

How Many Days to Spend in Auyuittuq National Park

The number of days you should spend in Auyuittuq National Park depends on your chosen activities:

• Akshayuk Pass Trek: For those hiking the Akshayuk Pass, a minimum of 8 to 12 days is recommended. This allows enough time to complete the trek at a comfortable pace, with time built in for weather delays or side explorations.
• Shorter Hikes or Day Trips: If you’re interested in shorter hikes or day trips, a stay of 3 to 5 days may be sufficient to experience the park’s highlights.

Where to Stay

Auyuittuq National Park is extremely remote, with no on-site accommodations, so visitors must be prepared to camp in the wilderness:

• Camping: Camping in Auyuittuq requires complete self-sufficiency, as there are no designated campsites or facilities. Common camping areas include the shores of Summit Lake, the base of Mount Thor, and various locations along the Akshayuk Pass. Ensure you have a sturdy tent, a sleeping bag rated for extreme cold, and enough provisions for your entire stay.
• Lodging in Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq: For those who prefer not to camp, accommodations are available in the nearby communities of Pangnirtung and Qikiqtarjuaq. The Auyuittuq Lodge in Pangnirtung offers comfortable rooms and amenities, serving as a base for exploring the southern part of the park. Qikiqtarjuaq also has a few guesthouses and lodges that cater to visitors, allowing for day trips into the park while enjoying the comfort of a warm bed at night.

Visiting Auyuittuq National Park: Guided Tours vs. Independent Exploration

Given the park’s remote location and challenging conditions, deciding how to explore Auyuittuq National Park is crucial:

Independent Exploration

Exploring Auyuittuq National Park on your own is possible for those experienced in backcountry travel and equipped to handle the harsh Arctic environment:

• Register with Parks Canada: It is mandatory to register your trip and attend a safety briefing at the Parks Canada office in either Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq. The briefing covers essential safety information, including navigation, weather hazards, and wildlife precautions.
• Be Self-Sufficient: The park has no facilities or services, so you must carry all your gear, food, and emergency supplies. This includes a robust shelter, warm clothing, cooking equipment, and enough provisions for the duration of your trip plus extra in case of delays.
• Know the Terrain: The trails are unmarked, and navigation can be challenging, especially in poor weather. Carry detailed maps, a compass, and a GPS device, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Independent exploration is best suited for seasoned adventurers with strong wilderness survival skills and experience in Arctic or similar environments.

Guided Tours

For those who prefer a more structured experience or who are not as confident in their wilderness skills, guided tours offer a safer and more accessible way to explore Auyuittuq National Park. Several tour operators provide guided trips in the park, including:

• Black Feather: A well-known Canadian adventure company, Black Feather offers a range of guided tours in Auyuittuq National Park, including the Akshayuk Pass trek and glacier trekking expeditions. Their tours are led by experienced guides who are familiar with the park’s challenges and are equipped to handle emergencies.
• Arctic Kingdom: Specializing in Arctic adventures, Arctic Kingdom provides custom expeditions in Auyuittuq, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife tours. Their guided trips are tailored to the interests and abilities of the group, making them a good option for less experienced travelers.
• Inuit Adventure: Based in Pangnirtung, this local operator offers guided hikes and cultural tours in and around Auyuittuq National Park. Their tours include insights into Inuit culture and the history of the area, adding a rich cultural dimension to your Arctic adventure.

Guided tours are highly recommended for first-time visitors to Auyuittuq National Park or for those looking to learn more about the region’s natural and cultural heritage. These tours provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and experiences without the stress of navigating and managing logistics.

Photography in Auyuittuq National Park

Auyuittuq National Park is a paradise for photographers, offering endless opportunities to capture the dramatic beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The park's landscapes, characterized by towering granite peaks, expansive glaciers, and deep fjords, provide a stunning backdrop for both amateur and professional photographers alike.

Summer Photography: The Arctic summer, with its long daylight hours and the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, allows photographers to capture the park in a unique light. The endless golden hours during this season create soft, diffused lighting that enhances the rugged features of the landscape. From the deep blue hues of the glaciers to the vibrant colors of the tundra, summer is the perfect time to capture the park’s full spectrum of natural beauty.

Winter Photography: Winter offers an entirely different photographic experience. The stark, snow-covered landscape and the near-constant darkness provide opportunities to capture the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. The contrast between the dark winter sky and the bright, dancing auroras can make for truly breathtaking images. Additionally, the low-angle winter light creates long shadows and a unique atmosphere, perfect for moody, dramatic shots of the park's frozen terrain.

Wildlife Photography: The park's diverse wildlife, including Arctic foxes, caribou, and a variety of bird species, also presents excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Whether capturing the stealth of an Arctic fox against the snowy backdrop or the flight of a peregrine falcon over a vast expanse of tundra, wildlife photographers will find Auyuittuq a rewarding destination.

Auyuittuq National Park is a destination that rewards the prepared and adventurous traveler. With its challenging hikes, breathtaking glaciers, and abundant opportunities for exploration, the park offers a truly unique Arctic experience.