Overview
A Canadian Heritage River, the Coppermine is steeped in ancient history of the early Copper Inuit and the more recent history and lore of explorers George Douglas, Samuel Hearn and John Franklin. The Coppermine flows northwesterly from the central territories through stunted taiga forest, rolling tundra plateaus, and rugged granite cliffs at Rocky Defile.
The historic Sandstone, Muskox and Escape Rapids are big volume rapids demanding both caution and expertise by intermediate or advanced canoeists. As we round Big Bend, the Coppermine swings north towards the arctic coast and Coronation Gulf. Flat-topped mountains and volcanic plateaus are connected by barren slopes and rocky outcrops. The ominous sheer granite cliffs guard the gate at Rocky Defile, a half-mile shadowy canyon run with class III & IV rapids. Just past the Rocky Defile, we camp at the confluence with the Kendall River famous for its prolific char fishing. The river winds through inspiring canyon topography of the terraced and sculpted September Mountains. An all-day hike gains significant elevation affording breathtaking views of the sweeping Coppermine River Valley.
Starting at
$11995 CAD
Package Price
Trip Highlights
- Stunning geology
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Historic Copper Inuit route to the Arctic
- Rich archaeological legacy
Quick Facts
Paddlesport
- Canoeing
Activity
- Fishing
- Whitewater
- Expedition
- Canoe Tripping
Experience/Service
- Paddling Trip
Waterway
- Whitewater Class III
Destination
- North America
Length
- 15 Days
Accomodation
- Wilderness Camping
Guided
- Yes
Outfitted
- Fully
Special Interest
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Adventure Level
Itinerary
Meeting Place
Yellowknife, NWT
As we paddle, the river winds through inspiring canyon topography of the terraced and sculpted September Mountains, steeped in ancient history. Nearing the end of our journey, a half day paddle brings us to our final destination of Kugluktuk and we will explore this remote Inuit community.
Dates & Packages
Coppermine River, Nunavut
For more details on 2024 Coppermine River dates, contact us! [email protected] & 647-941-6654
Airport pickup and return in Norman Wells (complimentary airport shuttles are available in Yellowknife and Edmonton).
Charter flights to and from the river.
Royalex Canoes 17′, with spray decks (if required).
Grey Owl paddles, Kokatat PFD’s and Level Six splash jackets.
WRSI Helmets on Natla, Mountain and Coppermine.
60L personal watertight barrel with harness (holds about 30 to 35lbs of clothing and gear).
Eureka K-2 Expedition Tents.
All quality camping equipment and gear.
Camp chairs for each person on the trip.
Certified guides with a maximum ratio of 5:1.
Hearty and nutritious trip meals including two snacks (GORP) each day.
Emergency satellite phone and two-way radios for guide-staff.
First Aid kit.
Access to our medical director, Dr. Aaron Orkin.
Access to discounted rates on Canadian North Airlines.
What Guests Are Saying
The trips are fabulous. The food and the guides are the best allowing you to have an exceptional northern experience. We have paddled the Coppermine and the Keele rivers and would recommend both trips with Canoe North Adventures.
- Art-Lynda