Hike, Canoe, Ski at Vuntut National Park

Vuntut National Park was established in 1995, after negotiations between the Government of Canada and the Yukon Territory and the Vuntut of the Old Crow. Vuntut is the land of the Gwitchin First Nations People. It means, “among the lakes,” in the Gwitchin language. The park stretches for a total of 4,345 square kilometers in the northwestern corner of the Yukon. Natural wonders abound. Plants, wildlife and panoramic views lure visitors to this remote area of Canada. Vuntut National Park is dedicated to the preservation of animal and plant life, while allowing the Vuntut Gwitchin to share their natural and cultural heritage. The Vuntut Gwitchin have lived in the area for centuries and though no year-round homes are found within park boundaries, they are still allowed to access the natural resources. The Vuntut Gwitchin use a wide variety of plant and animal life for clothing, food, tools, weapons and shelter. They have the privilege of harvesting, hunting, trapping and fishing within the boundaries of the park. The harvest of the Porcupine Caribou is of great importance to their way of life. The caribou herd is one of the largest in North America. The Old Crow flats, which lies within the park, is a wetland of international importance. Half a million birds inhabit the wetland each year to breed and molt before starting their winter migration. Muskrats live on the banks of hundreds of small lakes and ponds in the area. Hundreds of species call the flats home, including wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, mink, fox, marten, wolverines, lynx, moose, ground squirrels, birds of prey and muskox. The park is a fabulous place to hike, canoe and ski. However, caution should be used. This remote area has many hazards, including encounters with wildlife. Be sure to use proper food storage, camping and personal hygiene procedures to avoid confrontation with bears. Female moose with young, bull moose in rut and muskox also create a threat to visitors. In June and July thousands of blackflies and mosquitoes swarm and can create much discomfort. Be sure to dress properly and use insect repellent. The weather is variable and can change rapidly. Snowfall can occur at any time of year. Strong winds and extreme rising and falling of temperatures can be dangerous. Be prepared. Because the park is located in a remote wilderness area, search and rescue is very basic. Lengthy delays can occur due to weather conditions. Plan well and be prepared for emergency situations. Removal of natural or cultural objects from the park is prohibited. Fishing is allowed if you have a national park fishing licence. No firearms are allowed inside park boundaries. Do not feed, approach or harass wildlife. These actions are illegal and are strictly enforced. The closest community to the park is the town of Old Crow - population 300. The closest road is 175 kilometers away. To gain access to the park visitors must fly to Old Crow from Dawson, Whitehorse or Inuvik. There are no services or facilities within the boundaries of the park.