Canada – Go North! (Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories)

Introduction to the far northern territories of https://visitax.us/Canada:
If you want to go to the wilderness of North America, then you can’t miss Yukon, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories of the country. These places are home to indigenous people such as Inuit and Inuvialuit. With thousands of square miles of subarctic forest, the far northern area of Canada is blessed with immense natural beauty, as well as the rich culture of the community.
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These territories occupy almost 40 percent of the total land mass of Canada and hence, it isn’t surprising that these areas do include vast areas of tundra and stunning forest. Excluding the diamond mines and large oil and gas reserves, tourism is another sector which the far north of Canada has attracted the visitors since long ago. With the natural resources that the North does possess, it has the potential to grow exponentially in terms of economic growth. Hence, in recent times, you’ll find the far northern area of Canada is also taking a pivotal role. Let’s know more about these places.
YUKON
Out of these three territories, Yukon is the smallest territory in terms of land mass. After it was split from Northwest Territories in 1898, it got its name Yukon after the river Yukon. If we talk about modern history, then Yukon especially comes into the picture in the late 19th century when the gold rush begun. Though the people migrated to the area for trading fur and other goods, soon gold miners did follow and the whole demography started to change hence. The population did grow exponentially and so did the need of jurisdiction over law and order. Citing that, in 1898, Yukon was separated from other Northwest Territories and hence, Yukon was established.
Economy: From the economical point of view, the history presents Yukon as the land of mining which included mining of lead, zinc, silver and other metals. As the mining industry began developing, other industries also flourished during the time, and manufacturing of furniture, clothing, handicraft etc. also followed. In a recent event, the Business Corporation Act was also modified in order to attract even more benefits and to bring more participants into the mixture. With the potential to be a major economic centre, Yukon also has its share of natural beauty which has built a strong foundation in the field of tourism.
Tourism industry of Yukon: With the platform to perform any kind of outdoor activity amidst the natural beauty, the tourism industry also is a prime focus when we want to talk about Yukon. Be it hunting, skiing, snowboarding or ice climbing, you will definitely get a chance to enjoy an activity you always wanted to. With rich flora and fauna, the national parks and other wildlife areas have attracted the visitors for years.
Places to Explore in Yukon: While in Yukon, you get a chance to explore a variety of places, including:
- Historic sites, like S.S. Klondike, Robert Service Cabin, Palace Grand Theatre and Bonanza Creek etc.
- Museums, like North End Gallery, Northern Lights Centre, Keno City Minimg Museum, Kwanlin Dun Cultural Museum etc.
- Nature sight-seeing, at Yukon River, Lake Laberge, Chadburn Lake, Miles Canyon etc.
NUNAVUT
Nunavut is the newest and also the largest territory in the northern part of Canada. It was separated from Northwest Territories on April 1, 1999 through the Nunavut Act which brought a major change to the political map of Canada. It is a remote place which has no access via road or rail. Hence, air and water are the only routes through which one can reach Nunavut and its remote islands.
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History: The history in terms of finding the first written historical account goes back to 1576 by an English explorer Martin Frobisher. He was the first one to make contact with the Inuit people of the territory. During the cold war, the history of Nunavut revolved around relocating the Inuit people from Nunavik to Resolute and Grise Fiord. During these relocations, due to the unfamiliar environment, the people had to starve and faced hostile circumstances. Years later, the families were given compensation.
Economy: As in the case of Yukon, the economy of Nunavut also revolves around the mining industry. There are multiple major projects going on in the area which will aid to its economy and community. Oil, gas, and exploration of the minerals are other areas which also take part in building the economical sector of the territory.
Places to Explore in Nunavut:
- Iqaluit: This is the capital of Nunavut, and the center of all action. Here, you will get a chance to experience Inuit culture, and also be a part of several festivals it hosts from time to time. Numerous outdoor activities can be enjoyed here, including skiing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, berry picking, fishing and hunting.
- Naujaat (Repulse Bay): If you are a bird lover, you will definitely love to visit Naujaat that is also known as the birdwatchers’ paradise. You will get a chance to watch a variety of birds, including seagulls, tundra swans, snow geese and peregrine falcons.
- Auyuittuq National Park: Get a chance to explore the beauty of this national park by going on a hiking trip, or passing through on a dogsled.
- Somerset Island: View some of the most majestic beluga whales while sitting on this island.
Northwest Territories: The Northwest Territories is a federal territory situated in the far northern area of Canada. Since diamond plays a key role in the mining field, the capital of the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife, is also known as the diamond capital of North America.
Economy: Gold, diamonds and natural gas occupies a significant part in the economic map of Northwest Territories. Due to this mining industry, the economy has always been strength in the case of Northwest territory, as it has the highest per capita GDP among all other territories of Canada.
Places to Explore in Northern Territories: Northern lights, Great Slave Lake, Ice roads and Wood buffalo national park are some of the major areas of attraction. The northern lights do indeed deserve a special mention, as it is a natural phenomenon where bright red, blue, green and yellow lights could be seen across the sky. It also provides one of the best viewings of Aurora Borealis. Don’t forget to appreciate the beauty of nature at the Dory Point Territorial Park and Twin Falls.
Transportation: The Northwest Territories can be accessed via both road and air, and hence, it has good connectivity with all other parts of the country. The capital, Yellowknife, has the largest airport in the territory, which takes the responsibility of aircraft movements and passengers.
See also: Health care in Canada – can tourist rely on it in case of emergency?
Thus, the three territories, Yukon, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, have played a key role in various sectors of Canada. Along with such a massive historical importance that they have, these places always attract visitors due to their natural beauty and splendor. Not to mention, the mining industry has played a vital role in developing the northern part of Canada. The indigenous people, who have lived in these areas for centuries, have played an important role in structuring the demography as well. Not to mention, with a rich culture and historical background, these places will always remain the must visit places in Northern Canada.