Overview
Nestled on the Cumberland Peninsula of Baffin Island in Nunavut, Auyuittuq National Park, meaning “the land that never melts” in Inuktitut, offers a breathtaking glimpse into the Arctic wilderness. This stunning park features towering peaks, sprawling glaciers, steep fiords, and winding river valleys, creating an awe-inspiring landscape that beckons adventurers from around the globe. As one of the largest and most remote national parks in Canada, Auyuittuq is a pristine wilderness that has remained largely untouched by human activity, making it a true paradise for those seeking a genuine Arctic experience.
The park spans over 21,000 square kilometers, encompassing some of the most dramatic terrain in the Arctic. The iconic Akshayuk Pass, a 97-kilometer-long natural corridor, serves as the main route through the park and offers hikers and skiers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The towering peaks of Mount Asgard and Mount Thor are among the park’s most notable landmarks, with Mount Thor boasting the world’s highest vertical drop at 1,250 meters. These natural wonders provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for mountaineers and adventure seekers.
Auyuittuq National Park is also home to the Penny Ice Cap, an expansive ice field that feeds numerous glaciers, including the impressive Coronation Glacier. These glaciers are a sight to behold, with their immense size and intricate crevasses captivating visitors. The park’s rugged landscape is complemented by deep fjords and winding river valleys, creating a diverse and visually stunning environment that is a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
Rich in Inuit culture and history, Auyuittuq National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the traditional ways of life of the Inuit people. The park’s name itself reflects the deep connection between the land and the Inuit culture. Ancient archaeological sites can be found throughout the park, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Thule people, the ancestors of the modern Inuit. These sites, along with the park’s natural beauty, offer a profound sense of place and history.
The park’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of Arctic wildlife, including caribou, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, and lemmings. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to observe species such as the Gyrfalcon and the Snowy Owl, which are commonly seen in the park. Marine life, including polar bears, seals, walruses, and narwhals, can be spotted along the park’s coastline, adding to the richness of the Arctic experience.
Features
Akshayuk Pass: This 97-kilometer-long natural corridor is ideal for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, offering breathtaking views of the park’s stunning landscape.
Arctic Circle Adventures: Join a guided snowmobile adventure from Pangnirtung to the Arctic Circle, experiencing the true essence of the Arctic.
Glaciers and Ice Fields: Explore the majestic Penny Ice Cap and Coronation Glacier, witnessing the sheer power of these natural wonders.
Mountains: Marvel at the impressive peaks of Mount Asgard and Mount Thor, with Mount Thor featuring the world’s highest vertical drop.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot a diverse array of Arctic wildlife, including caribou, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, lemmings, and various bird species.
Marine Life: Observe marine animals such as polar bears, seals, walruses, belugas, and narwhals along the park’s coastline.
Flora: Discover Arctic flora, including mountain avens, Arctic poppies, saxifrage, and shrubs like dwarf birch and Arctic willow.
Cultural Heritage: Explore ancient Inuit archaeological sites and learn about the traditional ways of life of the Inuit people.
Hours of Operation
Auyuittuq National Park is open year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season. The best times to visit are during the summer months when the park experiences extended daylight hours, and during the spring for skiing and snowmobiling adventures. It is essential to register at the park offices in Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq and attend an orientation session before embarking on your journey.
Admission Costs
Daily visitor fees apply, and overnight camping permits are required for those wishing to stay longer. Annual backcountry passes and fishing permits are also available. For the most up-to-date information on fees and permits, it is recommended to check the official Parks Canada website.
Directions
To reach Auyuittuq National Park, visitors must first travel to the nearest towns of Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq, which are accessible by commercial flights year-round. From these towns, the park can be reached by boat or snowmobile with a licensed outfitter. Due to the park’s remote location and challenging terrain, careful planning and preparation are essential for a safe and successful visit.