Plan Your Yellowknife Adventure
Everything you need to know to experience Canada's spectacular Northern Lights capital. From seasonal guides to packing tips, we've got you covered.
Quick Start Guides
Essential information to get you started planning your trip
Best Time to Visit
Aurora season runs mid-August to mid-April. Winter (Dec-Mar) offers the most dramatic displays.
Learn moreWeather & Climate
Winter temps can reach -40°C. Summer highs around 20°C with midnight sun from June-July.
Learn moreWhat to Pack
Layered clothing essential. Winter requires extreme cold gear; summer needs bug spray.
Learn morePhotography Tips
Tripod essential for aurora shots. Keep batteries warm. Manual focus recommended.
Learn moreSeasonal Guide
Yellowknife offers unique experiences year-round. Discover what each season has to offer.
Winter
November - March
- Aurora Borealis
- Dog Sledding
- Ice Fishing
- Snowmobiling
Spring
April - May
- Late Aurora Season
- Ice Road Adventures
- Thawing Lakes
- Wildlife Awakening
Summer
June - August
- Midnight Sun
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Kayaking
Fall
September - October
- Early Aurora Season
- Fall Colors
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fewer Crowds
Travel Tips & Advice
Insider tips to help you make the most of your Yellowknife visit
Getting There
- Direct flights from Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Ottawa
- Book flights early during aurora season (Nov-Mar)
- Yellowknife Airport (YZF) is 5km from downtown
- Airport shuttles and taxis available
Getting Around
- Most tours include hotel pickup
- Car rentals available but not essential
- Downtown is very walkable
- Taxi services available 24/7
Best Times
- Aurora viewing: 10pm - 2am (peak activity)
- Book aurora tours for 3+ nights for best chances
- Midnight sun: late May to late July
- Visit museums and attractions during the day
Budgeting
- Aurora tours: $100-200 CAD per person
- Multi-day packages offer better value
- Winter gear rental: $50-100 CAD per day
- Budget $100-150 CAD daily for food
What to Pack
Packing right is essential for enjoying Yellowknife. Here's what you need for each season.
Winter Essentials
November - March
- Extreme cold parka (-40°C rated)
- Insulated snow pants
- Winter boots (rated to -40°C)
- Thermal base layers
- Balaclava and neck warmer
- Heavy-duty mittens
- Hand and toe warmers
- Sunglasses (snow glare)
Pro tip: Don't have extreme cold gear? Check out our winter gear rentals.
Summer Essentials
June - August
- Layered clothing
- Rain jacket
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Bug spray and head net
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Light layers for cool evenings
- Swimsuit (for lakes)
- Reusable water bottle
Pro tip: Bug season peaks in June-July. A head net is essential for hiking!
Aurora Viewing Tips
Maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights with these expert tips
Optimal Conditions
- Clear, dark skies away from city lights
- Peak viewing hours: 10pm - 2am
- New moon phases offer darkest skies
- Book 3+ nights for best probability
Photography Essentials
- Sturdy tripod is absolutely essential
- Wide-angle lens (14-24mm recommended)
- Keep spare batteries warm in pockets
- Manual focus set to infinity
Ready to Start Planning?
Browse our curated packages or build your own custom itinerary. Our team is here to help you create the perfect Yellowknife experience.