The legendary South Nahanni River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Canadian Heritage River flowing 560 kilometres through the Mackenzie Mountains with four spectacular canyons up to 1,200 metres deep. The river drops over 4,000 vertical feet through world-class whitewater, with Class II-IV rapids including the famous Rock Gardens, plus stunning Virginia Falls (twice Niagara's height) and diverse geology featuring hot springs, tufa mounds, and karst landscapes. Intermediate to advanced paddlers experience exceptional mountain scenery, diverse wildlife including caribou, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep, with abundant hiking opportunities. Best paddled June-September, access via charter flights from Fort Simpson to multiple put-in points; trips range 10-21 days.
South Nahanni River is estimated at Advanced. Whitewater ratings are not exact: grades change with water level and season. Verify current conditions locally before you paddle.
The best time is June-September.
South Nahanni River is located in the Northwest Territories region of Canada.
blackfeather.com/nahanni · mountaineers.org/south-nahanni · jackpinepaddle.com · insidehook.com · nastawgan.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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