Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, is a lively city of around 20,000 people, and it offers a wealth of unique experiences year-round. Winter visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of exciting events, like the Frostbite 45 Ski, the Diavik 150 Canadian Championship Dog Derby, and the SnowKings’ Winter Festival, a must-see for its incredible ice castle and vibrant atmosphere. In the summer months, the Folk on the Rocks festival draws local, national, and international musicians, turning the city into a hub for live music and culture.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do in Yellowknife, with breathtaking hiking trails like the Cameron River Falls Trail and the Frame Lake Trail offering stunning views of the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Prelude Lake Territorial Park is perfect for camping, boating, and hiking, providing the ideal escape into the wild. For those who love adventure, there are also opportunities for canoeing and wildlife spotting, as Yellowknife’s rugged landscape is teeming with life.
When you're ready to take a break from the outdoors, head to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre to discover the rich history, culture, and land of the Northwest Territories. The modern Legislative Assembly Building is also worth a visit, not only for its impressive design but also for its significant role in the territory’s governance. Afterward, you can explore local art, crafts, and souvenirs at the Down to Earth Gallery, where you’ll find treasures that reflect the region’s heritage.
Yellowknife's food scene will surprise you with its international offerings, from authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Zehabesha Traditional Ethiopian to fresh sushi at Sushi North and flavorful Asian dishes at A Taste of Saigon. For a more classic experience, head to The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery to enjoy a hearty meal paired with a locally brewed beer—a perfect reward after a day of exploring the area’s stunning landscapes.
View More Yellowknife Flights
Yellowknife at a Glance
20,817 (2022)
-17 °C
Wind NW at 16 km/h, 71% Humidity
Yellowknife is 3,062km away from the North Pole.
Yellowknife is a young city, with 35% of the population under 25 years of age. Less than 700 residents of Yellowknife are older than age 65.
The area surrounding Yellowknife is rich in precious materials like gold and diamonds. There are three diamond mines in the local vicinity, and in 2010, a 78-carat diamond was discovered at the Ekati Diamond Mine.
On the winter solstice–the shortest day of the year–the sun rises at 10:08 a.m. and sets at 3:06 p.m.
The city and Yellowknife Bay were named after the Yellowknives, a Dene band who lived on the islands of Great Slave's East Arm and travelled as far north as the Arctic coast to obtain copper for knives and other implements. They, in turn, acquired their name from the copper-bladed knives they carried.
Calendar of Events
From dog sled races to world-class music festivals, there’s something for everyone on the Yellowknife events schedule.
Air North Getaways
We have vacation packages to Yellowknife for everyone to enjoy. Let us take care of the flight, accommodation and activity details - so you can explore the great north! Check out our Getaways today.
Aurora Tracker
Weather
Charters
Just flew home from Whitehorse today on the Ottawa flight. I now enjoy bragging to my friends in the south about your excellent company, flights, service and most of all, understanding. As always, the meal was excellent. Thank you, I hope you will always fly my favourite skies.
OttawaON
Canada
Thank you, Air North for the very best of service. After 3 beautiful weeks in Dawson I was happy to be on a flight home with such lovely people who you employ. The sandwiches were good choices, fresh and delicious and the flight was absolutely stellar. I know why I like Air North and so will my friends, thank you all!
YT
Canada
Dear Air North, I just received the magazines that you sent to read to my husband. How very thoughtful of you and he has enjoyed some of the articles. I wish you flew to more destinations in Canada because I would use your company every time I flew. You really get customer support and care. You are an amazing company and you are without a doubt - our favourite.
YT
Canada