Inuvik lies north of the Arctic Circle, making it one of the most remote but accessible northern communities. It is surrounded by vast tundra, boreal forests, and a network of rivers and lakes that form the Mackenzie Delta, one of North America’s largest delta systems. Its strategic location makes it an important center for Indigenous governance, Arctic research, and northern transportation.
Inuvik is part of the Inuvik Region within the Northwest Territories and serves as the administrative center for the Inuvialuit Settlement Region and the Gwich’in Settlement Area. The town is built on permafrost, requiring elevated infrastructure to prevent ground shifting due to seasonal thawing. Its Arctic location results in extreme weather conditions, including Polar Night (a month of continuous darkness in winter) and the Midnight Sun (two months of 24-hour daylight in summer).
Inuvik experiences a subarctic climate (Dfc, Köppen classification) with long, harsh winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures can plummet below −40°C (−40°F), while summer highs occasionally reach 25°C (77°F). The town’s extreme seasonal shifts make it a prime location for observing the Northern Lights in winter and endless daylight in summer.
Dempster Highway (Highway 8) – A 737 km (458 mi) all-season gravel highway connecting Inuvik to Dawson City, Yukon.
Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway (138 km/86 mi) – The only all-season road to the Arctic Ocean, linking Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk.
The Inuvik (Mike Zubko) Airport (YEV) offers regular flights to Yellowknife, Norman Wells, and Edmonton, with additional charters to remote northern communities.
During summer, barges travel the Mackenzie River, delivering essential supplies to Inuvik and surrounding settlements.
Inuvik serves as a gateway to the Arctic, supporting research stations, Indigenous governance, transportation, and northern industries. Its remote yet accessible location makes it an important link between Canada’s Arctic communities and the rest of the country. Visitors are drawn to Inuvik for its unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and access to the Arctic Ocean.
Inuvik hosts vibrant cultural events year-round, celebrating Indigenous traditions, Arctic life, and northern creativity. Major events include the Muskrat Jamboree, Great Northern Arts Festival, and the Sunrise Festival. Learn More
Inuvik offers year-round outdoor adventures, from hiking and canoeing under the Midnight Sun to dog sledding and Northern Lights viewing in winter. The Arctic landscape provides endless opportunities for exploration. Learn More
Inuvik offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, inns, and unique northern lodging options. Visitors can choose from modern hotels, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, and seasonal camping experiences. Learn More
Inuvik can be reached by road, air, and seasonal river transport. The Dempster Highway connects it to the Yukon, but road access depends on ferry crossings in summer and ice roads in winter. Flights operate year-round. Learn More
Inuvik offers a mix of Arctic landscapes, Indigenous culture, and unique northern experiences. Highlights include the Igloo Church, the Midnight Sun, the Arctic Market, and the famous Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway. Learn More
