Situated in the remote wilderness of Canada’s Northwest Territories, Nááts’įhch’oh National Park Reserve is a rugged and breathtaking expanse of mountains, rivers, and boreal forest. Covering nearly 4,850 square kilometers, this park sits at the northern reaches of the Mackenzie Mountains, bordering the more well-known Nahanni National Park Reserve. While it remains one of Canada’s lesser-visited national parks due to its remote location, those who make the journey are rewarded with pristine landscapes, exhilarating outdoor adventures, and an abundance of wildlife.
A Land of Towering Peaks and Wild Rivers
The park takes its name from Nááts’įhch’oh, a sacred mountain to the Shúhtaot’ine (Mountain Dene) people, who have lived in this region for generations. The mountain is a defining feature of the landscape, rising dramatically above the surrounding valleys and serving as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark. The land itself is defined by a network of glacial-fed rivers, deep alpine valleys, and limestone karst formations, making it a paradise for those who seek untamed wilderness.
Adventure-seekers are drawn to the park for its world-class paddling opportunities. The South Nahanni River, which flows through both Nááts’įhch’oh and Nahanni National Park Reserve, is one of North America’s most famous wilderness rivers. But for those seeking a more remote challenge, the Broken Skull River offers a thrilling multi-day canoe or kayak expedition through some of the most untouched landscapes in the country. With Class II and III rapids, it provides just the right mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery.
Wildlife and Solitude in the Northern Wilderness
One of the greatest rewards of visiting Nááts’įhch’oh is the chance to witness its rich wildlife. The park is home to grizzly bears, Dall’s sheep, mountain goats, wolves, and moose, as well as the Northern Mountain Caribou, which migrate through the region. Raptors such as golden eagles and peregrine falcons soar above the cliffs, while the rivers teem with Arctic grayling and bull trout.
Hiking opportunities in the park range from short exploratory walks near O’Grady Lake to challenging multi-day treks deep into the mountains. Due to its lack of established trails, most hiking here requires navigation skills and a keen sense of adventure. This means that those who visit are often completely alone in the wilderness, adding to the park’s mystique and sense of remoteness.
A True Wilderness Experience
Unlike more developed national parks, Nááts’įhch’oh has minimal infrastructure, no visitor centers, and very few marked trails, meaning that visitors must be entirely self-sufficient. This makes it a dream destination for experienced backcountry explorers who are prepared to navigate with a map and compass, set up remote campsites, and truly disconnect from modern life. The park is best accessed by floatplane from Norman Wells, or via extended expeditions from Nahanni National Park Reserve.
For those seeking a national park experience that is truly off the beaten path, Nááts’įhch’oh offers a rare glimpse into Canada’s wildest landscapes, where the spirit of the land remains untamed, and nature dictates the pace of life.