The Hood River is a classic Barren Lands river, flowing through a mixture of arctic tundra, granite hills, and sandy eskers that stretch on for miles. Far above the treeline, the river flows for 300 km from its headwaters at Tahikafaaluk Lake to Arctic Sound on the Arctic Ocean. The canoeing season is short – the headwater lakes can be ice-choked to early July, and winter approaches in mid August. The first 100 km of the Hood River is characterized by many small lakes connected by rocky rapids and swifts. Continuing downstream, the river has many rapids, canyons, and waterfalls. This region has abundant wildlife such as muskoxen, caribou, grizzly bears, wolves, Peregrine Falcons, and golden eagles.

The Barrens scenery, abundant Arctic wildlife, and challenging whitewater make this trip a “must” for the experienced whitewater canoeist.

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!

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 and 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 Hood River – Day 2
  • charter float plane flight from Hood River 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.