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Log cabin in Blachford Lake Lodge

Blachford Lodge

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Nestled in the heart of the pristine Northwest Territories wilderness, Blachford Lodge offers an extraordinary escape for those seeking tranquility, adventure, and a front-row seat to nature’s wonders. Located just a 25-minute bush plane flight from Yellowknife, this eco-friendly lodge is an ideal destination for experiencing the Arctic’s untamed beauty and magical phenomena like the Aurora Borealis.

Blachford Lodge offers five guest rooms in the main lodge and five handcrafted log cabins, each providing daily housekeeping, towels, and down duvets. The cabins, equipped with wood stoves, electricity, and eco-friendly composting toilets, are just a short walk from the main lodge. The main lodge features a dining room, conference room, Aurora-viewing lounge, bar, full kitchen, fireplaces, shared bathrooms with hot showers, a sauna, hot tub, and open decks for Aurora viewing. Guests can unwind in the hot tub while watching the Aurora dance overhead.

The lodge is dedicated to sustainability, providing its own electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal systems. Bathrooms are shared and equipped with showers and composting toilets on each floor. All cabins feature more privacy with their en suite compost toilets and washbasins. Lodge rooms are located on the second floor of the main lodge, with toilets and showers located down the hall. These rooms are closer to the lodge amenities. Cabins are just a 1-3 minute walk from the main lodge; they feature wood stoves and ensuite toilets, while showers are available in the main lodge. The cabins provide greater privacy.

Blachford Lodge is open in winter from late December to early April, in fall from mid-August to mid-October for aurora viewing, and from June to mid-August for fishing. Choose dates near the dark phase of the moon for optimal aurora viewing or near the full moon to enjoy both the Aurora and a moonlit experience. The Aurora is a natural phenomenon and unpredictable, but the longer you stay, the better your options to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.

Getting Here
Blachford Lodge is the only fly-in wilderness resort in a remote 17-kilometer (12-mile) lake. The lodge is a 25-minute bush plane flight from Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, and is located north of the East Arm of Great Slave Lake. Yellowknife is easily accessible, offering daily flight service from most major U.S. and Canadian cities and same-day connections through Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta. Currently, the airlines flying into Yellowknife from major southern centers are:
  • Canadian North: www.canadiannorth.com
  • Air Canada: www.aircanada.com
  • West Jet: www.westjet.ca
Scheduled departure days from Yellowknife to the lodge are Tuesday and Saturday. During the fall season, most flights depart Yellowknife between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. It is highly recommended to book additional nights in Yellowknife before and after your stay. Please ask if you would like us to assist with booking these nights.
 

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Log cabin in Blachford Lake Lodge Main lodge Eagle's lodge Main Lodge Main lodge Main lodge Upstairs main lodge Sunrise room Eagle Nest Cabin Sunrise lodge room Aurora comfort station Summer hikers Winter plane Winter snowshoeing

Rooms

Eagle Nest Cabin
Cabin
The cabin features a king bed (or two Twin XL beds) and a 3-piece ensuite with running water.
Sunrise lodge room
Lodge Room
This room features one double bed and one twin bed. Children who stay at the lodge can use the twin bed in the loft. With large windows, this room faces the back bay of the lake and gets an absolutely spectacular view of each sunset.

Itineraries

Aurora borealis over Blachford Lake Lodge
$4,278
EXPLORE

Blachford Lodge: Winter and Spring Aurora Adventure

5 Day Itinerary
  • Witness the Aurora Borealis dancing
  • Explore scenic trails
  • Enjoy ice fishing in Blachford Lake
  • Experience traditional culture
  • Enjoy the comfort of the lodge
Activities:
Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Northern Lights, Skiing, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Tour Details
0
Aurora Borealis
$4,278
EXPLORE

Blachford Lodge: Autumn Aurora Adventure

5 Day Itinerary
  • Visit Blachford in Autumn
  • Enjoy birdwatching scenery
  • Enjoy kayaking and canoeing
  • Hike and see northern landscape
  • Enjoy fishing in Blachford lake
Activities:
Hiking, Kayaking, Northern Lights, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Tour Details
0
Boating in Blachford Lake Lodge during summer
$5,694
EXPLORE

Blachford Lodge: Summer Adventure

8 Day Itinerary
  • Enjoy the summer of Northern Canada
  • Enjoy fishing in Blachford lake
  • Enjoy kayaking and canoeing
  • Hike and see northern landscape
  • Enjoy birdwatching scenery
Activities:
Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Tour Details
0

Resort Tours and Activities

“Some excursions may require pre-registration or incur additional costs. Please get in touch with our trip planners for more details.”

Winter & Spring activities

Winter and Spring at Blachford Lodge are a true northern wonderland, where days of snow-filled adventure blend seamlessly into magical nights under the Aurora Borealis. Guests can venture out onto the frozen lake or settle into the warmth of the lodge’s viewing areas to watch as waves of green, purple, and pink dance across the star-studded sky. As spring arrives, the auroras shine brightly while the returning sunlight softens the landscape, casting a magical glow over the melting ice and snow.

Cross-Country Skiing: Embark on a cross-country skiing adventure through a winter wonderland, where each glide brings you deeper into the silent beauty of the North. Snow-covered trails stretch endlessly ahead, offering thrills and serenity as you navigate through forests and open landscapes cloaked in white.

Snowshoeing: Embrace the quiet beauty of winter as you step lightly through snow on a snowshoeing adventure. Each step takes you deeper into the wilderness, where trails reveal the serene wonders of the season. Explore the landscape through tranquil forests and open fields blanketed in white. Snowshoeing offers a unique way to connect with winter’s magic, letting you wander freely and soak in the peaceful beauty around you.

Winter Hiking: Step into a winter wonderland and explore frosty trails that lead you deep into the beauty of the north. Each hike through the snow-covered landscape offers moments of quiet awe, where every step brings you closer to the heart of winter. Surrounded by trees dusted in white and icy vistas stretching ahead, winter hiking is an adventure filled with unforgettable tales, inviting you to experience the crisp, serene charm of the season like never before.
  • Trails range from 2 to 6 kilometers and are of varied levels of ease.
Bonfires: Gather around the warmth of a crackling bonfire under the vast northern skies, where winter’s chill fades beside the firelight. Surrounded by snow and stars, bonfire nights in this winter wonderland bring people together for shared stories, laughter, and irresistible s’mores roasting over open flames.

Snowmobiling: Rev up for an exhilarating journey through the snowy wilderness, where snowmobiling lets you explore the untamed north. Feel the thrill as you speed along snow-covered trails, weaving through forests, frozen lakes, and open landscapes blanketed in white. Each ride brings you deeper into the wild, where every turn reveals a new winter vista. Snowmobiling in the north is an adventure that connects you with the raw beauty of winter’s untouched terrain.
  • *Please note snowmobile tours are an additional cost, starting at $140 per person.
  • Taste of Touring: Hop on your snowmobile and learn the basics of gliding over Blachford Lodge and operating a snowmobile for the first time. 
    • Distance: 5 km / 3.10 miles ride
  • Whiteman Loop: This easy route follows a series of three small lakes and bush trails, joining Blachford Lakes and going back to the lodge. Experience the Cadieux family's former cabin on the Francois River system as part of this trip. 
    • Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles ride
  • Whiteman Trail and Tea & Cookies Tour: 
    • Distance: 20 km/2.40 mile ride
  • Ice Pressure Ridges on Great Slave Lake: This trail starts from the lodge at Blachford and goes to Thor Lake, a rare mineral exploration camp. From there you head south on bush trails and join an old mine access road to overlook the East Arm of mighty Great Slave Lake and Blanchet Island, 10 miles to the south.
    • Distance: 32 km/19 miles
  • Watta Lake: Travel the lakes around Blachford, including Whiteman, Long, Watta, and Hearne Lakes. As you drive the portages between them, imagine carrying all your gear if you were going on the trip in summer by canoe.
    • Distance: 37 km / 22.9
  • Overnight Snowmobile Tour (per day): Stay at a traditional tent frame on the land! This tour can be catered to your preferences and where you’d like to go.
    • Please note that all snowmobile tours are condition/weather dependent. We reserve the right to change the routing at any time. Rides over 3 hours are for experienced riders only.
Hot Tub in the Wilderness: Immerse yourself in the warmth of an outdoor hot tub, surrounded by the beauty of the northern wilderness. During the day, relax and take in sweeping views of snowy landscapes, soaking in a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Authentic Cedar Sauna: Step into the warmth of an authentic northern sauna, where tradition and rejuvenation meet in the heart of the wilderness.

Viewpoints for Visual Artists: The North offers breathtaking viewpoints that spark endless creativity for painters and photographers. With every vista, inspiration unfolds across snow-draped forests, frozen lakes, and sweeping, silent landscapes.

Fat Tire Biking: Embark on a winter adventure as you tackle snowy trails on a fat tire bike built to conquer the wildest winter landscapes. Feel the rush as you ride through powdery paths and enjoy the landscape.

Photography Tips: Step into the heart of the North, where every click of your camera captures the ethereal beauty of the northern lights dancing across the night sky. 

Dream Catcher Making: Step into the art of dreamcatcher making, where tradition meets creativity in the heart of the wilderness.

Spruce Salve Making: Dive into the art of hand salve making, where you can craft a soothing balm using nature’s finest ingredients. In this hands-on experience, you will blend nourishing elements that heal and protect, creating a handmade salve infused with the essence of the North.

Wildlife Tracks: Walk the trails of Blachford Lodge and discover the footprints of northern wildlife. Uncover the secrets they leave behind. Each track tells a story, a glimpse into the lives of the creatures that roam these lands.

Ice Hockey: Step onto the frozen northern lake, where Canada’s game is purest and most exhilarating. With each stride across the crisp ice, you’ll feel the thrill of tradition, skating, shooting, and scoring in nature’s ultimate rink.

Ice Skating: Enter the magical winter landscape, where every glide uncovers the stunning beauty of nature in its icy form.

Igloo Building: Step into the Arctic experience by learning the traditional art of igloo building—a hands-on adventure that combines fun, skill, and a touch of history. As you craft your own Arctic shelter, discover the secrets of creating a cozy, snow-built haven that has provided warmth for generations.

Winter Camping: Winter camping offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, where you can pitch a tent in the heart of a snowy landscape and experience the ultimate northern wonder.

Ice Fishing: Ice fishing at Blachford Lodge is an exhilarating experience, set against the rugged beauty of the Northwest Territories pristine wilderness.

Beyond Blachford: Uncover the boundless beauty of the north, where miles of untouched wilderness await exploration. Fly-in fishing ice-fishing expeditions take you to remote lakes, while lodge-to-lodge and expedition adventures offer a deeper connection to the vast and rugged landscapes of the Northwest Territories, Alaska, and the legendary Northwest Passage.

Summer Activities & Experiences

During the summer and fall at Blachford Lodge, visitors can engage in various exciting activities, including canoeing, fishing, hiking, and exploring the vibrant landscapes that shift with the seasonal changes.
  • Canoeing & Kayaking: Set off on a canoeing and kayaking journey through northern paradise, where clear waters invite you to explore calmly. As you paddle along the shores of Blachford, each stroke reveals views of the wild, untouched landscapes.
  • Hiking: Embark on a hike through the heart of the north, where each trail leads through the untamed beauty of the Taiga. As you trek along hidden paths, enjoy the views of the north—towering trees, serene lakes, and rugged terrain that only a few have explored.
  • Swim Under the Midnight Sun: Experience the surreal beauty of endless daylight as you dive into northern waters under the glow of the midnight sun. Here, the sun never fully sets, casting a golden light that turns every swim into a magical experience.
  • Fishing: Whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned pro, Bleachford's pristine waters offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable angling adventure.
  • Bird Watching: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the north, where bird-watching becomes an enchanting experience. This bird watcher’s paradise offers a front-row seat to nature’s aviary spectacle, where birds take flight against stunning landscapes.
  • Boating: Set sail on Bleachford's pristine waters and embrace the thrill of northern boating adventures. As you navigate the vast, peaceful lake, each boat trip offers a chance to connect with the wild beauty around you.
  • SUP: Stand-Up Paddle Boarding 
    Stand-up paddleboarding on Blachford offers an immersive experience of the clear waters and the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Hot Tub in the Wilderness: Immerse yourself in the warmth of an outdoor hot tub, surrounded by the beauty of the northern wilderness. During the day, relax and take in sweeping views of snowy landscapes, soaking in a sense of calm and rejuvenation.
  • Authentic Cedar Sauna: Step into the warmth of an authentic northern sauna, where tradition and rejuvenation meet in the heart of the wilderness.
  • Viewpoints for Visual Artists: The North offers breathtaking views that spark endless creativity for painters and photographers. With every vista, inspiration unfolds across snow-draped forests, frozen lakes, and sweeping, silent landscapes.
  • Fat Tire Biking: Embark on a winter adventure as you tackle snowy trails on a fat tire bike built to conquer the wildest winter landscapes. Feel the rush as you ride through powdery paths and enjoy the landscape.
  • Photography Tips: Step into the heart of the North, where every click of your camera captures the ethereal beauty of the northern lights dancing across the night sky. 
  • Dream Catcher Making: Step into the art of dreamcatcher making, where tradition meets creativity in the heart of the wilderness.
  • Spruce Salve Making: Dive into the art of hand salve making, where you can craft a soothing balm using nature’s finest ingredients. In this hands-on experience, you will blend nourishing elements that heal and protect, creating a handmade salve infused with the essence of the North.
Autumn Aurora Activities & Experiences

Experience fall at Blachford Lodge, where golden autumn hues meet the dazzling Northern Lights. Crisp air and clear skies create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable Aurora-filled nights.
  • Autumn Aurora Viewing: Autumn at Blachford Lodge offers a breathtaking spectacle as the northern skies come alive with the mesmerizing hues of the Aurora Borealis.
  • Canoeing & Kayaking: Set off on a canoeing and kayaking journey through northern paradise, where clear waters invite you to explore calmly. As you paddle along the shores of Blachford, each stroke reveals views of the wild, untouched landscapes.
  • Hiking: Embark on a hike through the heart of the north, where each trail leads through the untamed beauty of the Taiga. As you trek along hidden paths, enjoy the views of the north—towering trees, serene lakes, and rugged terrain that only a few have explored.
  • Fishing: Whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned pro, Bleachford's pristine waters offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable angling adventure.
  • Bird Watching: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the north, where bird-watching becomes an enchanting experience. This bird watcher’s paradise offers a front-row seat to nature’s aviary spectacle, where birds take flight against stunning landscapes.
  • Boating: Set sail on Bleachford's pristine waters and embrace the thrill of northern boating adventures. As you navigate the vast, peaceful lake, each boat trip offers a chance to connect with the wild beauty around you.
  • Hot Tub in the Wilderness: Immerse yourself in the warmth of an outdoor hot tub, surrounded by the beauty of the northern wilderness. During the day, relax and take in sweeping views of snowy landscapes, soaking in a sense of calm and rejuvenation.
  • Authentic Cedar Sauna: Step into the warmth of an authentic northern sauna, where tradition and rejuvenation meet in the heart of the wilderness.
  • Viewpoints for Visual Artists: The North offers breathtaking views that spark endless creativity for painters and photographers. With every vista, inspiration unfolds across snow-draped forests, frozen lakes, and sweeping, silent landscapes.
  • Fat Tire Biking: Embark on a winter adventure as you tackle snowy trails on a fat tire bike built to conquer the wildest winter landscapes. Feel the rush as you ride through powdery paths and enjoy the landscape.
  • Photography Tips: Step into the heart of the North, where every click of your camera captures the ethereal beauty of the northern lights dancing across the night sky. 
  • Dream Catcher Making: Step into the art of dreamcatcher making, where tradition meets creativity in the heart of the wilderness.
  • Spruce Salve Making: Dive into the art of hand salve making, where you can craft a soothing balm using nature’s finest ingredients. In this hands-on experience, you will blend nourishing elements that heal and protect, creating a handmade salve infused with the essence of the North.

Resort Facilities

Blachford Lodge, located near Yellowknife, Canada, offers a range of facilities and amenities designed for comfort, relaxation, and immersion in nature. Here’s what you can expect:

Main Lodge Facilities
  • Dining Room: Serves fresh, locally inspired meals.
  • Aurora-Viewing Lounge: Cozy space with large windows for Northern Lights viewing.
  • Conference Room: Suitable for group gatherings or workshops.
  • Bar: Serves a selection of beverages.
  • Fireplaces: for warmth and ambiance.
  • Shared Bathrooms: Include hot showers and high-tech composting toilets.
  • Sauna: Perfect for relaxation after outdoor activities.
  • Hot Tub: Ideal for evening Aurora viewing under the stars.
  • Open Decks: For unobstructed views of the Aurora Borealis and surrounding wilderness.
Accommodation Options
  • Main Lodge Guest Rooms: Five rooms with comfortable bedding, shared bathrooms, and access to all lodge facilities.
  • Log Cabins: Five hand-built, private cabins equipped with:
    • Wood stoves for heating.
    • Electricity.
    • High-tech en suite composting toilets and washbasins.
Eco-Friendly Commitment
The lodge operates sustainably, generating its own electricity and managing waste and water in an environmentally conscious way.
Additional Amenities
  • Daily Housekeeping: Ensures a clean and welcoming environment.
  • Outdoor Activities: Includes hiking, fishing, kayaking, snowshoeing, and ice fishing depending on the season.
  • Aurora Viewing: Spectacular views of the Northern Lights in fall and winter.
Blachford Lodge blends modern comforts with a commitment to sustainability, making it a unique destination for exploring the Canadian wilderness.

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