A: Getting to Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) is part of the experience—your journey takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Northwest Territories. Whether you’re traveling by air or road, here’s how to plan your trip:
1. By Air (Fastest & Easiest)
The quickest way to reach Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) is by flying. Book a flight from Yellowknife to Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) Airport. Flights are typically operated by regional airlines like Air Tindi or Canadian North. Flight time is about 1–1.5 hours.
2. By Road (Scenic Adventure)
For those who enjoy a road trip, driving offers a unique northern experience. Drive south from Yellowknife along the Mackenzie Highway (HWY 1). Turn onto Liard Highway (HWY 7) toward Fort Simpson. Cross the Liard River via the seasonal ferry (summer) or ice road (winter). Travel time: 6–7 hours, depending on conditions.
3. Seasonal & Local Travel
Traditionally, the Dene people have traveled these lands by water for generations. Boat access along the Liard and Mackenzie Rivers during ice-free months. Snowmobile or ice roads in winter.
4. Where You’re Going
Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) is located at the confluence of the Liard and Mackenzie Rivers, in the heart of the Dehcho Region. It is a gateway to the world-renowned Nahanni National Park Reserve and a vibrant Dene community rich in culture, language, and tradition.
5. Travel Tips
Check weather and road conditions before traveling. Book flights early—seats can fill quickly. Plan ahead for ferry schedules (summer). Bring essentials if driving (fuel stops are limited). If you are driving to Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson), it’s important to be prepared because fuel and services are limited along the way.
Some essentials to bring include:
– Extra fuel (in approved fuel containers)
– Drinking water and non-perishable food
– Warm clothing and extra blankets
– First aid kit
– Spare tire and tire repair kit
– Jumper cables or booster pack
– Flashlight with extra batteries
– Fully charged phone and power bank
– Basic tools and emergency roadside kit
Being well-prepared helps ensure a safe and comfortable trip through the North.
A: When you visit Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for—each season offers something special on the land.
Winter (November – April)
If you’re looking for a true northern winter experience, this is the perfect time to come.
You can enjoy:
– Aurora (Northern Lights) viewing
– Snowmobiling across the land
– Ice fishing on frozen rivers and lakes
– Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Winter is a time of quiet beauty, where you can experience the land in a way that reflects traditional Dene life and connection to the seasons.
Summer (June – September)
If you prefer warm weather and outdoor adventure, summer is the ideal season.
This is the best time for:
– Flightseeing over Nahanni National Park Reserve
– Canoeing and river trips
– Camping under long northern days
– Guided boat tours
– Fishing and hiking
Summer brings vibrant landscapes, flowing rivers, and access to some of the most breathtaking natural areas in the North.
A: If you are interested in camping, there are many amazing territorial parks along your drive. Check out the Liard Trail Route, Waterfall Route or Heritage Route for driving route options.
View all your options on the Northwest Territories Parks website.
Liard Trail Route: https://www.nwtparks.ca/explore/liard-trail
Waterfall Route: https://www.nwtparks.ca/explore/waterfalls-route
Heritage Route: https://www.nwtparks.ca/explore/heritage-route
A: There are local and non-local operators that offer a variety of tours. Email us and we will help you out.
A: You can contact Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ Tourism at 867-695-3131 Ext. 1006. Email us at: lkfntourism@gmail.com
A: Visitors can enjoy a variety of local options including Pandaville for Western and Chinese cuisine, the restaurant at Nahanni Traveller Hotel for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as convenient stops like Northern Store and Unity Ltd. for groceries, snacks, and essentials.
Yes! Fort Simpson has some of the freshest water in Canada as it comes from the Mackenzie River, flowing out of Great Slave Lake with headwaters at the Peace River. At Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́/Fort Simpson, the Nácháh Dehé (Liard River) joins up with the Dehcho (Mackenzie River) and the contrast between the muddy, silt-laden water of the Nácháh Dehé (Liard River) and the clear water of the Dehcho (Mackenzie River) is apparent.
Yes! There are many activities for families, the children and parents alike. Local families can be seen out and about enjoying summer on their bikes, on the beach or on-the-land enjoying nature.
Yes! Many people travel to the community on their own road trips for a variety of reasons. Our community operators are happy to offer tours at a variety of lengths from just a few hours to multiple days.
It depends on which trip you take! If you book a canoe trip along the Dehcho (Mackenzie River) there is very little fitness required as the equipment is delivered for you and it is not a long trip.
If you book a Nahanni River Trip there is a certain level of fitness required as there is a 1.3km portage from the campsite at the top of the falls to the launch point below. Majority of the portage is on a boardwalk, ending with approximately 300m of switchbacks.
If you do a self-guided trip you will need to take all your gear on your own, so pack light. If you book with a guided trip, your guides will take a lot of the gear for you so it is ideal to book with a guide if you are unsure of your physical abilities.
All the tour operators are certified.
Often products and pricing can be adjusted to the needs of our visitors. Contact us today to see what we can do to meet your needs today.
The Fort Simpson Airport is located 14km outside of the community so you will require a pick-up. If you just want a ride into town, you need to book ahead of time with Double A Ventures phone 867-695-1117 or Whiterock Wellness Solutions phone 867-695-2160.
Yes! You can reach Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) by driving through the Northwest Territories using Highway 1 (Mackenzie Highway) and Highway 7 (Liard Highway), which connect through scenic northern routes depending on your starting point; just make sure to check current road and ferry conditions before you travel, especially during seasonal changes.
The cell signal is limited to the communities only.
The closest city is the only city in the NWT, that place is called Yellowknife. It is located 630km from Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson), the drive is about six hours with Fort Providence and the Big River gas station located at the halfway mark.
Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson) has all the essentials including a grocery store, convenience store, restaurants and a liquor store. If you want to cook your own meals, you can bring fresh fruits and vegetables as the supply may be low. The store has the basic amenities so if you have dietary restrictions, you will need to bring in your own special products.