Facts About Canada

Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve

Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve (“Land of the Ancestors” in Dënesųłiné Yatié) protects the dramatic East Arm of Great Slave Lake and surrounding boreal–tundra transition in the eastern Northwest Territories. Established in 2019 and co-managed with Indigenous partners led by the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation, the park reserve is the federal core of the larger Thaidene Nëné Indigenous Protected Area.

At a glance — Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve
Location East Arm of Great Slave Lake, transition from subarctic boreal forest to tundra (Łutsël K’é region), Northwest Territories
Province / territory Northwest Territories
Place type National Park Reserve (federal core of the Thaidene Nëné Indigenous Protected Area)
Established 2019
Area (approx.) ≈14,070 km² (National Park Reserve); broader Indigenous Protected Area ≈26,000+ km²
Notable features Sheer lake cliffs & island-studded channels; clear deep waters with lake trout/grayling; waterfalls & river canyons; boreal–tundra ecotone near treeline; cultural sites; Indigenous guardian program (Ni Hat’ni Dene)
Nearby communities Łutsël K’é (closest community); regional hub: Yellowknife

Overview

Thaidene Nëné links vast freshwater channels, red and grey bedrock headlands, and lichen-clad forests where the boreal gives way to open tundra. The East Arm’s fjord-like bays and islands form one of Canada’s great inland lake landscapes. Co-management with Indigenous governments blends Dënesųłiné knowledge and Parks Canada practices to steward wildlife, waters, and cultural places.

Lands and relationships

The park reserve is part of the larger Thaidene Nëné Indigenous Protected Area—created by the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation with partners including Parks Canada, the GNWT, and neighbouring Indigenous governments. On-the-land stewardship is supported by the Ni Hat’ni Dene (“Watchers on the Land”) guardian program, which welcomes visitors, shares guidance, and monitors travel and cultural sites.

Landscapes and ecosystems

  • Great Slave Lake – East Arm: Cliff-lined channels, islands, and deep, clear freshwater basins shaped by ice and post-glacial rebound.
  • Rivers, falls & canyons: Short, powerful outlets from shield lakes tumble into the East Arm (seasonally variable water).
  • Boreal–tundra ecotone: Black spruce/jack pine and birch give way to open tundra and bedrock barrens near treeline.
  • Wildlife (highlights): Lake trout, Arctic grayling, pike; woodland and barren-ground caribou (seasonal movement), moose, black/grizzly bear, wolf, fox, beaver; abundant waterfowl and songbirds in summer.

Things to do

  • Boat-based exploring (summer): Multi-day lake travel among islands and cliffs (experienced boaters or local guides recommended).
  • Paddling routes: Lake and river trips for competent parties; expect cold water, wind, and long crossings—conservative planning essential.
  • Hiking & shore rambles: Off-trail bedrock ridges and beaches near camps; no formal trail network.
  • Fishing: Renowned lake trout/grayling—follow licensing and catch-and-release guidance where posted.
  • Cultural learning: Meet guardians and learn about Dënesųłiné place names, history, and stewardship.

Access and visitor services

  • No road access into core lake areas. Most parties stage from Yellowknife or Łutsël K’é and use charter floatplanes or boats (weather- and wind-dependent).
  • Registration/orientation: Backcountry trip registration with Parks Canada is required; orientations cover safety, routes, and cultural protocols.
  • Services & logistics: Lodging, fuel, and outfitters are in Yellowknife; services in Łutsël K’é are limited—plan self-sufficiency (food, fuel, repairs, communications).

Safety and low-impact travel

  • Cold, big water & wind: Great Slave Lake can build steep chop quickly; dress for immersion, carry VHF/PLB, and use conservative weather windows.
  • Wildlife & food storage: Store odours securely; keep legal distances from bears/wolves and 30 m from moose/caribou; never feed or approach wildlife.
  • Navigation: Feature-rich shorelines and long crossings demand maps/nautical charts and GPS; fog and smoke can reduce visibility.
  • Respect cultural sites: Do not disturb tent rings, cabins, or archaeological features; follow guardian guidance and any seasonal closures.
  • Practice Leave No Trace—pack out all waste and protect fragile lichen and thin soils.

See also

External links (official)

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