Hay River is a dynamic northern town offering thrilling wilderness pursuits from hiking and fishing to canoeing and Northern Lights viewing on the Great Slave Lake.
Hay River is a dynamic northern town offering thrilling wilderness pursuits from hiking and fishing to canoeing and Northern Lights viewing on the Great Slave Lake.
Adventure in Hay River, NT
Explore the vibrant natural landscape of Hay River, Northwest Territories, your starting point for diverse outdoor adventures. Located on the southern edge of Great Slave Lake, the town is a lesser-known gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers wanting to experience the true north.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Hay River, NT special.
★ 8.4⌖ 26.58 milesExplore the serene beauty of Louise Falls in Enterprise, NT. This popular family-friendly location offers hiking opportunities around a stunning waterfall. Drive-in access makes it easy, with partially accessible trails. Quiet year-round, it's best visited in spring or fall.
★ 8.6⌖ 27.44 milesModerateExplore the stunning Alexandra Falls, located in Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park near Enterprise, NT. Experience the beauty of this 32-meter waterfall along the Hay River and enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping in the surrounding tranquil wilderness.
★ 8.8⌖ 36.98 milesVisit Alexandra Falls near Hay River, NT, and be captivated by its 32-meter drop amidst the wilderness. Ideal for hiking and photography, this drive-in spot offers breathtaking views and rich cultural insights. Best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Hay River, NT, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Hay River, NT.
⌖ 93.7 miA full-day fly-out that puts anglers a roughly 10-minute flight from Yellow Dog Lodge onto four remote Northwest Territories lakes for pike, walleye and trout; this guide lays out what to expect and the day's rhythm.
⌖ 93.7 miAn 8–12 hour, full-day offering at Yellow Dog Lodge that pairs self-guided boat fishing (rods and reels provided) with shore lunches and flexible evening boat options.
⌖ 119.9 miA guided, easy-to-learn snowshoe tour through snow-covered trails and frosted trees just outside Yellowknife—this guide explains what you will see, how the outing flows, and the practical details to plan your visit.
⌖ 122.4 miSpend 2–5 nights in a Standard Room or Cabin with all meals and seasonal outdoors equipment included and return charter flights to the lodge from Yellowknife.
⌖ 122.4 miA 90 m2 executive cabin at Yellow Dog Lodge with private bathroom, laundry and a galley kitchen; this guide explains the cabin layout, key amenities and practical arrival details.
⌖ 122.4 miA 3-hour evening that pairs a 30-minute dogsled toboggan ride away from city lights with lakeshore aurora viewing and a warm-up in a traditional log cabin.
⌖ 122.4 miA three‑hour, family‑friendly Northern Lights experience at Tugáh Northern Experiences — cozy log cabin warmth, pan‑fried bannock and short walks to a light‑free frozen lake for prime aurora viewing.
⌖ 122.4 miA short-stay wilderness lodging option that includes meals, seasonal paddle or Nordic gear, and return charter flights between Yellowknife and the lodge.
⌖ 122.5 miA compact, family‑run experience that pairs a short sled run across a frozen lake with storytelling, bannock and a chance to meet the kennel—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 273.2 miA focused, three‑hour horseback outing up to the rim of Coral Creek Canyon with a saddle‑bag lunch—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring and who the ride suits.
⌖ 343.4 miA compact, well‑equipped ice shack that sleeps up to six on Slave Lake, with optional transportation and gear rental — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan your stay.
⌖ 361.5 miAn eight-hour, hands-on excavation run by the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum that pairs participants with researchers at the Pipestone Creek bonebed—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 379.1 miA detailed guide to staying at Ice Shack #8 ('Big Blue') in Kinuso — what to expect, what to pack, and how transportation and gear rentals make this an easy ice-fishing escape.
⌖ 379.1 miA compact, four-person ice shack run by Jensen's Ice Shack Rentals on Slave Lake — this guide condenses what to expect, what to pack, and how the rental and transport work for stays of one to seven nights.
⌖ 379.1 miA compact, cozy ice shack for two offering ice‑fishing rentals, transport from the parking lot, and a quiet winter escape on Slave Lake.
Make the most of your visit to Hay River, NT with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Hay River, NT hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Hay River, NT during the iconic Hay Days Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Hay River, NT during the iconic Kamba Carnival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Pack for variable weather conditions, especially in winter.
Check local guides for the best fishing spots on Great Slave Lake.
Book accommodations in advance during popular events.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Hay River, NT. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.