Katannilik Park

Katannilik Territorial Park stretches north from the outskirts of Kimmirut toward the south shore of Frobisher Bay, near Nunavut’s capital city of Iqaluit.

In Inuktitut, the language of the Inuit, the word Katannilik means “place where there are falls” and refers to the many waterfalls that can be viewed in the park.

The park’s Soper Valley is ecologically significant, boasting a variety of Arctic plants, including the only trees (Arctic willow) found on Baffin Island. Visitors may be lucky enough to see fox, caribou, Arctic hare, lemmings and a number of bird species, including ptarmigan and peregrine falcons in the park.

In summer visitors can hike to Katannilik from Kimmirut or boat across the Soper Lake. From Iqaluit visitors can charter an aircraft to Mount Joy and be dropped off to travel down the river in a boat, kayak or raft, or can boat across Frobisher Bay from Iqaluit to the Itijjagiaq trailhead. In winter or spring visitors can access the park from Kimmirut or Iqaluit by dogsled, snowmobile or skis.

Nunavut is polar bear country so before a trip at any time of year be sure to read up on polar bear safety at www.nunavutparks.com. People are required to register at the visitors’ centre before entering the park and when they leave.