Yellowknife
Yellowknife is the capital city of the Northwest Territories and the largest community in the territory. Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, it is a hub for government, Indigenous cultures, mining, and northern adventure.
Quick Facts
- Territory: Northwest Territories
- Population: ~20,000
- Official Languages: 11 official languages in the territory, including English, French, and Indigenous languages such as Dene and Inuktitut
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- Demonym: Yellowknifer
History
Yellowknife began as a fur trading post in the early 20th century but rose to prominence with a gold rush in the 1930s. It became the capital of the Northwest Territories in 1967, replacing Fort Smith.
Today, it is known for its role in the Canadian diamond industry and its importance in territorial governance.
Economy
Yellowknife’s economy revolves around:
- Government and public administration
- Diamond mining and mineral exploration
- Tourism and aurora viewing
- Indigenous governance and services
- Aviation and logistics
Major Attractions
- Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
- Old Town and the scenic Bush Pilots Monument
- Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories
- Frame Lake Trail and surrounding wilderness
- Great Slave Lake – one of the deepest lakes in North America
- Aurora Borealis – world-renowned northern lights viewing
Culture and Events
Yellowknife is a cultural meeting point for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Key events include:
- Snowking Winter Festival – features a castle made of ice and snow
- Folk on the Rocks – a popular summer music festival
- Ramble and Ride Festival
- National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations
Education
- Aurora College – territorial college with programs in trades, health, and Indigenous studies
- Public and Catholic school systems under Yellowknife Education Districts
Neighborhoods
- Downtown Yellowknife
- Old Town – historic district with houseboats and rustic charm
- Range Lake
- Niven Lake
- Frame Lake South
- Kam Lake
Transportation
Yellowknife Airport (YZF) provides regional and national service. Roads connect the city to southern Canada, though distances are vast. Local transit includes buses and taxis.
Did You Know?
- Yellowknife is one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, visible up to 240 nights per year.
- It is located near the north shore of Great Slave Lake, which reaches depths of over 600 metres.
- The city’s name comes from the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, traditional inhabitants of the region.