Banks Island presents some of the richest wildlife habitat in the western Canadian Arctic. One of the only sites in the Arctic archipelago left largely unscarred by the last glaciation, the island has evolved as an oasis and refuge for both flora and fauna.

To the avid naturalist, Banks Island has much to offer and delight, including the world's largest population of Muskoxen; an astounding 70,000 animals. The showcase for much of the natural splendor of Banks is Aulavik, the National Park that occupies much of the islands' northern tundra. Most significant to this Park is the Thomsen River valley, a major wildlife corridor that is mantled in a profusion of wildflowers, lush sedges and grasslands.

This trip is offered in partnership with the only adventure outfitter licensed to operate on the Thomsen River. Using stable expedition sea kayaks, we descend this gentle thoroughfare along its course through Aulavik National Park.

Snow geese, Sandhill cranes, Rough-legged hawks, Peregrine falcons, Snowy owls, Sabine gulls, and Yellow-billed loons are some of the tundra-nesting bird life seen along the route, while roaming wolf packs, Arctic fox, Arctic hare and ermine grace the landscape. Above the banks of the river, signs of people who came centuries and even millennia before us are evident. Ancient stone meat caches, tent rings and scattered remains speak of the adventurous spirit of those who first came to this land of solitude.

This non-technical river-running expedition involves 3 to 5 hours of paddling per day with some layover days for base camping and daily opportunities to hike. Time in this magnificent Arctic sanctuary is one of discovery and great beauty as we join the ranks of the select few who have traveled through this special area.

Highlights:

• Kayaking adventure paddling down gentle, meandering crystal-clear Thomsen River with open rolling hills & pastoral arctic scenery.
• Traverse Aulavik National Park, one of Canada's newest wilderness parks.
• An oasis for wildlife; a pristine island virtually unscarred by the last glaciation.
• 3 to 5 hours per day paddling down this non-technical river.
• Daily opportunities to hike.
• Layover days for base camping.
• Half the worlds population of muskoxen lives on Banks Island.
• Birdlife includes Snowy owls, Gyrfalcons, Peregrine falcons, King eiders, Yellow-billed loons, jaegers, Sabine's gulls and Sandhill cranes.
• Rich archaeology - guided hikes to cultural sites and prehistoric ruins.

How this trip makes a difference

Over the past 23 years, this operator has successfully guided active, self propelled wilderness adventures. We start our trips by supporting the local communities where we travel, from shopping for our supplies to lodging, and, whenever possible, hiring local guides. Once we are dropped off in the wilderness, we are walking, paddling or dogsledding across a landscape, noticing everything, but leaving nothing but footprints in our wake.

Every visitor traveling behind us will arrive feeling they are the first explorer to the area. Wildlife skulls, antlers, and artifacts are left as they were found. Rocks anchoring tents are returned their original resting place. The little garbage we generate is carried out with us. Fresh water sources are fiercely protected against contamination.

Our trip goals include educating and connecting people to nature and the outdoors through natural history based expeditions. We diligently promote cultural preservation and environmental awareness from our pre-departure information to our no trace practices in the field. As our guests explore the wonders of our world, we hope to help everyone gain new insights and perspectives on other cultures and environments as well as our own and foster a sense of our interconnectedness.

We consider running these trips our way of giving back to the environment as our guests return better educated and likely to vote or support these environments, their culture and wildlife.

Trip Details:

• 15-day trip begins and finishes in Inuvik, NWT.
• Trip includes charter plane flight from Inuvik to Banks Island, park fees, farewell dinner last night.
• Meals, kayaks and tents are included.

Kayaking and Hiking the Thomsen River - Aulavik National Park, Banks Island, Northwest Territories, Canada