Yellowknife travel Guide

Yellowknife travel guide

National Airports

Yellowknife is served by the Yellowknife Airport (YZF), which is the only national airport in the city. The airport offers daily flights to several major Canadian cities, including Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and Ottawa, among others. The airport is located about 6 km from downtown Yellowknife and can be easily reached by taxi, shuttle bus or rental car.

Trains in Yellowknife

There are no passenger train services in Yellowknife, as the city is located in the Northwest Territories, which has no railway infrastructure. The nearest rail service is located in Hay River, about 200 km south of Yellowknife, which is served by the Mackenzie Northern Railway. However, this railway is primarily used for freight transportation and does not offer passenger services. The main modes of transportation in Yellowknife are by air, road, and water.

Buses in Yellowknife

Yellowknife has a local public transit system called “Yellowknife Transit,” which operates several bus routes in the city. The bus routes cover most of the major areas in the city, including downtown, residential areas, and shopping centers. The bus fares are affordable, and passengers can pay with cash or purchase bus passes. The buses are equipped with bike racks, making it easy for passengers to bring their bicycles along for their travels. In addition to the local public transit system, there are also intercity bus services that operate between Yellowknife and other cities in the Northwest Territories and Alberta, such as Fort Smith, Fort McMurray, and Edmonton.

How to get to Yellowknife

Yellowknife is located in the Northwest Territories of Canada and is accessible by air, road, and water.

By Air: The Yellowknife Airport (YZF) is the main airport serving the city and is located about 6 km from the downtown area. Several airlines operate regular flights to Yellowknife from major Canadian cities such as Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver, among others.

By Road: The Yellowknife Highway 3 is the main road leading to the city, and it connects Yellowknife to the south with the Alberta Highway 35. The highway is fully paved and maintained year-round, but drivers should be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions during the winter months.

By Water: The Mackenzie River is an important waterway in northern Canada and is used for transportation by boat during the summer months. Visitors can take a boat trip on the Mackenzie River to reach Yellowknife, but this option is not practical for most travelers as it is a long and potentially challenging journey.

Once in Yellowknife, visitors can get around the city by local public transit, taxi, or rental car.

What is the best time to travel to Yellowknife

The best time to visit Yellowknife depends on what activities and experiences you are looking for. Here is some information about the different seasons in Yellowknife:

Summer (June to August): The summer months in Yellowknife are the warmest and sunniest, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The long days with up to 24 hours of daylight provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. This is also the best time to see wildlife such as moose, bison, and caribou.

Fall (September to November): The fall season in Yellowknife is known for its stunning autumn colors and the Northern Lights. The days become shorter, and the weather starts to cool down, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. The fall months are also a great time to visit Yellowknife if you want to experience the Aurora Borealis, as the skies are often clear and the Northern Lights are more visible.

Winter (December to March): Yellowknife is known for its long, cold winters, with average temperatures ranging from -30°C to -15°C. However, this is also the best time to see the Northern Lights, as the long, dark nights provide optimal viewing conditions. Winter activities in Yellowknife include dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

Spring (April to May): The spring season in Yellowknife is a time of transition, with temperatures slowly warming up and the snow beginning to melt. Average temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C. Spring is a good time to visit if you want to experience the Northern Lights and enjoy winter activities before the snow melts completely.

How to get around Yellowknife

Yellowknife is a relatively small city, and getting around is easy. Here are some transportation options:

Walking: The downtown area of Yellowknife is very walkable, and many attractions are within a short walking distance of each other.

Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city, and you can easily hail one on the street or call a taxi company to arrange a pick-up. The rates are reasonable, and most taxi companies accept credit card payments.

Rental cars: There are several car rental agencies in Yellowknife, and renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or if you prefer the convenience of having your own vehicle.

Public transportation: Yellowknife Transit is the public bus system that serves the city, and it has several routes that connect different parts of the city. The buses are clean, safe, and affordable, and you can pay with cash or a pre-paid card.

Bicycle rentals: If you enjoy cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike shops or rental companies. The city has several bike trails and designated bike lanes, making it a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time.

Accommodations in Yellowknife

Yellowknife has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Here are a few options:

Explorer Hotel: This is a popular full-service hotel located in the heart of downtown Yellowknife, just a short walk from many attractions. It offers a range of room types, as well as on-site dining, a fitness center, and a pool.

Coast Fraser Tower Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located in a tower overlooking Yellowknife Bay. It offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, as well as on-site dining, a fitness center, and a sauna.

Super 8 by Wyndham Yellowknife: This is a budget-friendly hotel located a short distance from downtown. It offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.

Northern Lites Motel: This is a family-run motel located in a quiet residential area. It offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.

Vacation rentals: Yellowknife has a variety of vacation rentals available, from cozy cabins to spacious apartments. These can be a good option for families or groups who want more space and the ability to cook their own meals. Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo have many listings in Yellowknife.