Itibiak Lake Trip: Hike/boat. Approx. 5 hrs.

Stone Fox Trap

Numerous archaeological sites are observed on the hike to Itibiak Lake, many of which appear to be old enough to be Thule sites. Once at the lake, we board boats and travel around the lake. Fishing for lake trout and arctic char can be sampled from many locations. We stop at Seashell Point for tea and snacks and continue on to explore the rest of the lake and its environs. This trip gives our guests a taste for the inland areas, and offers good opportunities to see larger mammals, such as caribou and musk ox.

Lodge Hike: Approx. 3 hrs.

Hiking north from the lodge, we climb a hill along a game trail that has been used by caribou and musk ox for centuries, on to the cliff above the lodge. The views of the surrounding country are spectacular and there are again many archaeological sites to be observed enroute. We then descend into a lush lowland full of sedges and arctic cotton. The abundance of wildflowers and plants makes this area prime caribou and musk ox habitat. Working our way south, to the Itibiak River, we will encounter the geological formation of tundra polygons created by the freezing and thawing of permafrost. This hike provides excellent opportunities to photograph wildflowers and plants as well as a chance to see musk ox or caribou.


Seashell Beach Boat Trip: Approx. 5 hrs.

This exploration by boat showcases the coastline of Elu Inlet as we travel slowly along the north, taking regular stops to observe the flotillas of sea ducks, including king and common eiders, and old squaw ducks. Herds of musk ox are often seen enroute as well as the occasional gyrfalcon. One of the highlights of this trip is the beautiful white sea shell beach, where the shells occur in depths of up to two metres. This phenomenon has occurred due to the effects of glaciation and isostatic rebound, and many times people have mistaken the white shells for snow. Many species of birds can be observed here, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and rough-legged hawks. On the return journey, we make a stop at Nauyak Rock, which supports a large nesting gull colony.

Itibiak Bay Hike: Approx. 4 hrs.

This hike takes guests north along the shores of Itibiak Bay, to observe the wildflowers, plants and archaeological sites. The changes in topography and rock formations on this route are of particular interest. The highlight of this trek is at the end, where there are spectacular views and one of the most interesting archaeological sites that we have found so far - a stone house. Numerous tent rings and food caches can also be found nearby. The cliffs above the stone house also feature a pair of peregrine falcons. Guests board boats for the return trip to the lodge.

Uvaayuuq Hill Boat Trip: Approx. 4 hrs.

According to Inuit legend, Uvaayuuq Hill was formed by a fallen giant (Inukpuk). This area is unique as it is characterized by sheer cliff faces and concentrations of raptors, including peregrine falcons, gyrfalcons and rough-legged hawks. The lake behind Uvaayuuq Hill is a short hike away and has spectacular fishing for large lake trout and arctic char. Here, we can also retrace part of Sir John Franklin's 1821 exploration from Hope's Bay to Warrender Bay. Along the way, we recount this historic journey with actual excerpts from Franklin's journals, which relate to these locations.

Mount Elu Hike/Boat trip: Approx. 4 hrs.

Guests have a choice of either hiking or boating to the base of Mt. Elu. From here, we take a leisurely hike up the west slope, pausing along the way to examine the variety of mosses and lichens which grow on the rocky outcrops. All along the way, the vistas just keep getting better, and from the summit our visitors get a true feeling for the vastness of the land stretching out in all directions. Peregrine falcons and golden eagles nest on the sheer sides of Mt. Elu and are often seen soaring overhead. We stop for tea and snacks at the summit before making an unhurried descent back to the lodge.

Our outings are suitable for people of virtually any age and fitness level. They are conducted by guides who are familiar with the region. Safety and enjoyment are paramount. Great care is always taken to ensure the preservation of the environment, as well as the integrity of the many cultural and archaeological sites that are visited.