Ukkusiksalik National Park
Nunavut
•Est. 23 August 2003
Area
20,880 km² (8,062 sq mi)
Natural Region
Central Tundra
Established
23 August 2003
About the Park
Ukkusiksalik National Park, named after the Inuit word for soapstone, encompasses a vast expanse of tundra and coastal mudflats surrounding Wager Bay. The park is notable for its rich wildlife, including polar bears, grizzly bears, Arctic wolves, and barren-ground caribou. It also contains over 500 archaeological sites, reflecting the historical presence of the Inuit people.
Park Location
History
The area has been inhabited by Inuit from the 11th century until the 1960s. The Hudson's Bay Company operated a trading post in the region from 1925 to 1947. The park was officially established on August 23, 2003, becoming Canada's 41st national park.
Landscapes
The park features diverse landscapes, including Wager Bay—a 100 km-long inlet with deep fjords—coastal mudflats, and rolling tundra. Notable features include a reversing waterfall and the surrounding Canadian Shield terrain.
Wildlife
Ukkusiksalik is home to a variety of wildlife such as polar bears, grizzly bears, Arctic wolves, barren-ground caribou, seals, and peregrine falcons. The tundra vegetation includes dwarf birch, willow, and mountain avens.
Activities
Visitors can engage in wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring archaeological sites. Access is typically by chartered plane or boat from nearby communities like Baker Lake or Naujaat.
Park Features
Natural Beauty
Pristine Wilderness
Wildlife
Native Species
Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Views
Photo Opportunities
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