Ukkusiksalik National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Nunavut

Ukkusiksalik National Park

Ukkusiksalik National Park in Nunavut offers a remote Arctic wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich Inuit cultural heritage.

National Park5,059,3464+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

5,059,346

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Ukkusiksalik National Park

Ukkusiksalik National Park in Nunavut offers a remote Arctic wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich Inuit cultural heritage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Ukkusiksalik National Park, located on the west coast of Hudson Bay in Nunavut, Canada, spans over 20,000 square kilometers of pristine Arctic tundra, rugged coastline, and glacial fjords. The park encompasses Wager Bay, a 100-kilometer-long fjord framed by towering cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its unique Arctic ecosystem, featuring caribou herds, polar bears, Arctic foxes, seals, and numerous bird species such as peregrine falcons and snowy owls. Ukkusiksalik is also the heartland of Inuit cultural history, including archaeological remains of former Inuit settlements and trading posts that reveal millennia of human adaptation to the harsh environment. Recreational opportunities are centered around wildlife viewing, remote hiking, kayaking through Wager Bay, and cross-country ski touring during winter months. The park is extremely remote, accessible only by charter flights or boat from Rankin Inlet, enhancing its appeal for adventure travelers seeking solitude and pristine wilderness. Visitors are drawn to the raw beauty of the Arctic's expansive landscapes, the chance to encounter iconic wildlife, and the opportunity to learn about Inuit traditions through cultural programs and guided tours. Its combination of natural and cultural heritage makes Ukkusiksalik a unique destination for those interested in Arctic ecology and indigenous history.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Ukkusiksalik National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Wager Bay Fjord – dramatic 100 km-long fjord with towering cliffs and Arctic watersPolar Bear and Caribou Viewing – prime habitat for iconic Arctic wildlifeInuit Archaeological Sites – remnants of historic hunting camps and trading postsKayaking Expeditions – remote paddling opportunities through pristine fjord waters
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Ukkusiksalik National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Ukkusiksalik National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Ukkusiksalik National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits required from Parks Canada; guided trips highly recommended due to remoteness.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Ukkusiksalik National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Ukkusiksalik National Park. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Ukkusiksalik National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut
42.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut

Chesterfield Inlet is a remote Arctic village where wilderness and Inuit traditions meet. Visitors can hike tundra trails, paddle icy inlets, and ski untracked snowfields while immersing in pristine natural beauty.

June to September for summer activities; December to March for winter sports
Explore Town
Rankin Inlet, Nunavut
50.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rankin Inlet, Nunavut

Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, is a unique Arctic town on Hudson Bay offering hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and wildlife viewing amid stunning tundra and Inuit culture. Best explored June to September for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

June to September
Explore Town