The Keele River offers an iconic Canadian wilderness canoeing experience through the rugged Mackenzie Mountains in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Turquoise waters flow from high in the divide between the Yukon and Northwest Territories through towering mountain scenery and broad valleys full of rugged black spruce with inviting vistas on every curve. Although fast and boisterous, the Keele River has lots of room to find a smooth path. As confidence builds, paddlers seek the larger wave trains. The Keele has very clear lines and the choice to paddle smooth water or bouncy water. There are gracious campsites, big mountain vistas, no portages, very few bugs to worry about, and excellent hiking available.
Highlights
Fish for Arctic grayling or trout and enjoy a fresh fish dinner
Observe wildlife including caribou, moose, eagles, grizzly, and black bears
Canoe the Keele River, perfect for paddlers with limited or dated experience
Camp in the rugged Mackenzie Mountains in Canada's Northwest Territories
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Depart Yellowknife on Canadian North, arriving in Norman Wells by noon. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own commercial airfare to Norman Wells, NT. Attend orientation, canoe skills training, and accommodation at the basecamp lodge.
Day 2: Keele River
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Take a morning charter flight to the Keele River (included in your fare).
Day 3-12: Paddle the Keele River
10 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners
The Keele River is designated by Destination Canada, the Canadian Tourism Commission, as a Canadian Signature Experience—one of only 180 such experiences designated in Canada.
Day 13: Norman Wells
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Take a return charter flight to Norman Wells and overnight at the basecamp lodge (included in your fare).
Day 14: Tour Ends
1 Breakfast
Depart Norman Wells. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own commercial airfare from Norman Wells, NT.
Dates & Prices
This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Canada Cruises & Tours.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Notes
Rates based on small group departure of 8-14 participants.
Please add 5% sales tax from Yellowknife.
Rates based on Canadian Dollar (CAD) and subject to change due to currency fluctuations.
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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