The Coppermine River follows the treeline from the central Barren Lands to the Arctic Ocean. Renowned for its wildlife and fascinating history, it has been designated a Canadian Heritage River. We begin the trip downstream from “diamond country”, where mineral discoveries have transformed the economy of the region. Caribou and muskoxen graze along the shores as we work our way through moderate rapids, lakes, and a lazy river current. There is remarkable bird life, including nesting golden eagles and gyrfalcons. The Arctic char fishing can be exceptional. The river meanders through rolling hills, steep-walled canyons. and past towering cliffs. The trees dwindle until we paddle out onto the Barrens beneath the midnight sun. Our last camp is at Bloody Falls, in sight of the ocean. Finally we’ll paddle to the sea. We’ll then have a little time to wander through the Inuit hamlet of Kugluktuk before returning to Yellowknife by plane.

Want to Learn More?

We look forward to offering this trip again in 2024. More details will be available in November – contact us to be added to our waitlist in the meantime!

Paddle the Coppermine with Black Feather - The Wilderness Adventure Company

What's included

Map

Guides

  • 6:1 ratio
Accommodation

Accommodation

  • 2 nights accommodation in Yellowknife (subject to change)
  • 13 nights camping
Meals

Meals

  • all meals & snacks from Day 2 lunch to Day 15 lunch
  • dinner Day 15 and breakfast Day 16 (subject to change)
Equipment

Canoeing Equipment

  • ABS expedition canoes with spray decks and knee pads
  • paddles, PFDs, throw bags, paddling suits & helmets
Camping

Camping Equipment

  • tents – free standing expedition dome tents – 2 per tent
  • ‘kitchen’ – tarp, fire box, cooking stoves, utensils, dishes, etc
  • containers for food and group equipment
Safety

Safety Equipment

  • first aid, safety, river rescue, and repair kits
  • communications equipment (satellite phone)
Transportation

Transportation

  • charter flight from Yellowknife to Great Bear Lake and return – Days 2 and 16
  • charter float plane flight from Great Bear Lake to Coppermine River – Day 2
  • charter float plane flight from Kugluktuq to Great Bear Lake – Day 15
  • ground transfer to Yellowknife Airport – Day 2 morning
  • transportation of guides, group gear, food, return of canoes to Yellowknife, etc.