Northwest Territories

Hanbury-Thelon Rivers

~ Advanced
★★★★⯨ 4.5

About

The Hanbury-Thelon Rivers combination represents one of North America's greatest Arctic canoe expeditions, linking the barrenlands across Northwest Territories and Nunavut. The Hanbury offers challenging, arduous paddling with portages and numerous rapids over 100 km, while the Thelon continues with gentler conditions through the legendary Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary: home to muskoxen, caribou herds, grizzlies, wolves, and exceptional birdlife. The lower Thelon section (Hanbury junction to Baker Lake) totals 10-12 days of predominantly swift, portage-free water through endless tundra with world-class wildlife viewing opportunities best experienced July to August.

Highlights

World-class wildlife sanctuaryMuskox and caribou herdsPristine Arctic wildernessHistoric paddling routeExceptional birdlife
Best season: July-August

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of Hanbury-Thelon Rivers?

Hanbury-Thelon Rivers is estimated at Advanced. Whitewater ratings are not exact: grades change with water level and season. Verify current conditions locally before you paddle.

When is the best time to canoe Hanbury-Thelon Rivers?

The best time is July-August.

Where is Hanbury-Thelon Rivers located?

Hanbury-Thelon Rivers is located in the Northwest Territories region of Canada.

View interactive map

Sources

nunavutparks.com · jonathanwalpole.com · chrs.ca · arcticodyssey.ca · paddlingmag.com

Conditions change with water level and season. Grades and positions are for planning, not navigation. Verify locally before you paddle. Terms of use

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