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Upper Horton

Upper Horton RiverThe Horton River is the most northerly flowing river in mainland Canada. Horton Lake is located 80 kms north of Great Bear Lake in the Sahtu Region of the Northwest Territories. It is 150kms east of Colville Lake, home to the Inuvialuit descendants of the Inuit and also overlapping the traditional hunting lands of the Hareskin Dene, the Athapaskan Indians who also frequented the area. The Horton is located on the sedimentary rock of the Northern Interior Plains of the Mackenzie Lowlands

Upper Horton RiverWe travel this river through some of the most vast and ancient lands in the north. The river’s most outstanding feature is the amount of wildlife that can be seen on its shores including caribou, arctic fox, muskoxen, wolves and bears. The eighty species of birds include peregrine falcon, gyrfalcon, loons, ravens, eagles and ptarmigan. This clear, turquoise river is deep and swift running through rolling tundra with rock outcrops and cliffs. Fishing is good on the river with arctic grayling, inconnu, trout and arctic char common in the eddies and where side creeks enter the river. The river is large but gentle flowing through the tundra.

Hiking opportunities are common and the terrain is straightforward and easily accessible. Wildflowers and nesting birds are easy to spot. Parts of the river flow through banks with cliffs up to 150 feet in height.

 Adventure Facts:

  • Horton River, Northwest Territories
  • Horton Lake to Whaleman River
  • 293km, no portages, 12 days
  • Class II -  novice to intermediate

Arrive Norman Wells

We require that travellers arrive at the Canoe North Outfitting Centre in Norman Wells the day before they embark on their expedition.

Day 1 – Horton Lake

  • Depart from Canoe North Outfitting Centre on the charter flight over vast regions of the Sahtu. Camping at Horton Lake with exceptional hiking and fishing.

Day 2 to Day 10 – Horton River

  • The Horton River exits Horton Lake with lively current and crystal clear waters.  The river weaves through this vast northern region with high banks of Devonian limestone that offers incredible hiking and striking, panoramic views. The river extends to paddlers an entertaining and enjoyable canoeing experience as it runs down to the Whaleman River. Ample opportunities for photography, hiking and fishing abound. The river is known for its nesting birds and incredible arctic wildflowers. The Class II swifts with bouncy wave trains are manageable by all skill levels.

Day 11 – Whaleman River

  • Paddle to pick up point at Whaleman River camp.

Day 12 – Whaleman River to Norman Wells

  • Charter flight to the Canoe North Outfitting Centre in Norman Wells for final night dinner celebrations. See information on meals and accommodations.

Depart Norman Wells

Travellers will depart Norman Wells the day after their expedition ends. Inquire about extended travel beyond Norman Wells.