Baffin Island
Explore the raw, unspoiled beauty of Canadaโs Auyuittuq National Park on a multi-night backpacking expedition through Akshayuk Pass.
Auyuittuq National Park
$250.00
Discover Baffin Island’s Auyuittuq Traverse
Explore the raw, unspoiled beauty of Canadaโs Auyuittuq National Park on a multi-night backpacking expedition through Akshayuk Pass. Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Arctic wilderness, from towering granite peaks to vast glaciers and glacially carved U-shaped valleys. This 60 mile, 97 kilometer trek is for experienced backpackers ready to challenge themselves in one of the planetโs most remote and breathtaking regions.
We have two outings planed for 2026. Trip #1: Aug 2 โ 15 (start/end in Ottawa; Qik to Pang); and Trip #2: August 16 โ August 29 (start/end in Ottawa; Qik to Pang). Space is limited. Make your fully refundable deposit now to join our waitlist, or be first in line for our 2027 release. Placement will be determined based on availability and order of registration. Pricing for 2027 will be released May 2026 and your 2027 deposit is 100% refundable until details provided, and accepted.
Whatโs included
- One night hotel stay and welcome meal in Ottawa on arrival
- Round-trip flights from Ottawa to our Arctic gateways
- Guided multi-night trek through Auyuittuq National Park
- Overnight lodging in Qikiktarjuaq and Pangnirtung, on arrival and pre-departure from our Arctic gateways
- Land and boat transfers in our Arctic gateways
- Park fees
- Guides and major gear
- All meals in the field
- Inspiration for a lifetime
Whatโs not included
- Meals in the front-country, including while in transit
- Transportation to our Ottawa meeting destination
- Lodging in the front-country post-trek
How it works
For 2026 Waitlist and 2027 Early Access registration, your $250 deposit is fully refundable and indicates interest only, and does not confirm your spot on this trip.
For 2026 participants, once approved, a $1,500 deposit per person is required to secure your spot. Payments are fully refundable until confirmed. An additional deposit of $3,500 will be due November 15th. The balance payment will be due April 1st. Maximum group size of 12, including two guides. An additional 5% charge will be applied when your reservation is made to offset fees associated with operating in Auyuittuq National Park.
For 2027 participants, we plan to provide refined trek details, cost, logistics, travel, and additional information by May 2026, at which time an additional deposit will be required. Your deposits holds your spot and place in line, and is fully refundable until details dates and details are released, and you accept placement on the trek.
Cancellation policy: Cancellations made 180 days or more before the scheduled departure date are eligible for a full refund, less the $1,500 deposit which will be issued as credit. Cancellations made between 60 and 180 days prior to departure are eligible for a 50% refund of the total amount paid, less the deposit which will be issued as credit. No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations made within 60 days of departure. Credit can be applied to any TSX experience, transferred to family or friends, and valid for up to two years from the date of cancellation. Credit can only be applied to future trip bookings and may not be used for merchandise or other online purchases.
Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime
Explore the raw, unspoiled beauty of Baffin Islandโs Auyuittuq National Park on a multi-night backpacking expedition through Akshayuk Pass. Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Arctic wilderness, from towering granite peaks to vast glaciers and glacially carved U-shaped valleys. This trek is perfect for experienced backpackers ready to challenge themselves in one of the planetโs most remote and breathtaking regions.
Tentative Trip Overview
- Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights
- Distance: Approximately 97 km (60 miles)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Group Size: Maximum 10 participants and 2 guides
- Season: Late July to mid-August (optimal for Arctic conditions)
Sample Day-by-Day Itinerary
All subject to conditions,โ weโve been honing our itinerary, outlined below. Like most wilderness trails, expect rolling terrain rather than steep ascents or descents. Over our 14-day itinerary โ including two travel days and a layover โ weโre targeting an average of 10 km per day (switching to metric for Canada!).
Starting with 10 km per day while carrying heavy packs will set us up for success, allowing for longer days later. It will also help us time our crossings and earn extra opportunities for side hikes with light packs.
The distances and elevations only tell part of the story. The real challenges lie in the boggy sections, numerous water crossings, and tricky footing over moraines, where route-finding will be key.
โAll subject to conditionsโโhereโs our day-by-day route plan:
Day 0: Arrive and overnight in Ottawa. Evening team dinner, and pack check.
Day 1: Depart Ottawa and fly to Qikiktarjuaq via Iqaluit, van ride to hotel. Welcome dinner with guides at Hotel. Evening walk around town.
Day 2: Breakfast at Hotel. Check out and pack up. Pack up small items for shipping to Pang in Black Feather duffels. Hike to Park Briefing at Park Office. Hike to boat launch. Boat trip to North Pang Fjord (2+ hour boat ride in good conditions). Unload on shore of Baffin Island, begin hiking inland.
Days 3-4: Scenic ascent of the Owl River Valley, often staying close to the Owl River. Many small and some larger stream crossings that serve as good training for the more challenging morainal stream crossings ahead.
Days 5-7: With luck Mt. Asgard will begin to beckon us from atop the Penny Icecap at we cross the Owl River and begin the technical section near Akshayuk Pass and the Summit Lake area. The enormous Highway moraine is the first navigational and route finding challenge, followed by several challenging stream crossings. A notably tricky crossing is at the highly changeable Turner moraine.
Days 8-11: We will descend the spectacular Weasel River Valley under the dramatic walls of Mt. Thor and Mt. Odin. A little more of a trail will appear and we feel a little closer to the mountains. We manage a few more challenging stream crossings including the notably steep Half-Hour Creek, and enjoy some of the most scenic camps on the trip.
Day 12: Hike to the ocean and get picked up and taken by boat to the scenic Hamlet of Pangnirtung. Celebration dinner in the Hotel. Explore Pangnirtung.
Day 13: Explore Pangnirtung, visit the artists cooperative, flights home via Iqaluit and Ottawa.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can join this trek?
- This trek is suitable for experienced backpackers in excellent physical condition, ready for strenuous hikes, river crossings, and unpredictable weather.
2. What is the deposit and payment process?
- For 2027 treks, your $250 deposit is fully refundable and indicates interest only, and does not confirm your spot on this trip. We plan to provide refined trek details, cost, and logistics, travel, and additional information by summer 2026, at which time an additional deposit will be required.
- For 2026 treks, a $1,500 deposit per person is required to secure an “unconfirmed” spot. Weโll confirm if there is space to place you on a 2026 trek by June 4, 2025 and provide an update. An additional deposit of $3,500 will be due November 15th. The balance payment will be due April 1st. Typical group size of 10, including one guide. Maximum group size of 10, including two guides. An additional 5% charge will be applied when your reservation is made to offset fees associated with operating in Auyuittuq National Park.
3. What kind of training should I do?
- We recommend a rigorous training program, including hiking with a loaded pack, stair climbing, and running, to prepare for the physical demands.
4. What weather should I expect?
- Expect rapidly changing conditions. Typical temperatures range from -1ยฐC to +11ยฐC in July, with potential for strong winds and sudden weather shifts.
5. Are meals provided?
- Yes, all back-country meals and snacks are included. We provide hearty, nutritious food and cater to dietary restrictions if notified in advance.
6. What wildlife might I see?
- Possible sightings include Arctic foxes, hares, seals, and a variety of Arctic birds.
8. How do I get to the start of the trek?
- Our experience begins in Ottawa, where we meet for a group meal and dinner. From there, we have you covered!
9. What safety measures are in place?
- Our guides carry first aid kits, a satellite phone, and bear safety equipment. Evacuation is challenging due to the remote location, so participants must be prepared and healthy.
10. Is there a weight limit for gear?
- Yes, personal gear is limited to 30 pounds. Youโll also carry a share of group gear, which can add up to 20 pounds.
11. What happens if there are travel delays?
- We recommend travel insurance to cover unforeseen delays or cancellations. Additional costs for extra lodging or meals are not included.
12. Are there layover days during the trek?
- Yes, we plan to build in layover days to rest and explore, making the most of the Arctic environment.
Essential Gear for the Arctic Wilderness
The Auyuittuq Traverse demands high-quality gear to ensure your safety and comfort in harsh conditions. Here’s what youโll need to bring:
Personal Gear (provided as needed)
- Backpack: 65+ liters, with a comfortable hip belt and sturdy frame.
- Dry Bags: To keep gear dry and organized.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to -7ยฐC (20ยฐF) or lower, down or synthetic.
- Sleeping Pad: Insulated and durable (self-inflating or closed-cell foam).
- Trekking Poles: Collapsible and sturdy.
- Tent: 4-season or robust 3-season
Clothing
- Base Layers: Thermal, moisture-wicking top and bottom.
- Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket, plus warm pants.
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
- Hiking Pants & Shirts: Quick-drying and durable.
- Underwear & Socks: Moisture-wicking, with extra pairs for river crossings.
- Gloves & Hats: Waterproof gloves, fleece liners, warm beanie, and sun hat.
- Rain Gear: Full suit or poncho.
- Gaiters: Waterproof for added protection.
Footwear
- Hiking Boots: Waterproof, sturdy, and broken-in.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight and quick-drying.
- Stream Crossing Socks: Neoprene or Gore-Tex.
Cooking & Hydration
- Water Bottles: Two 1-liter bottles.
- Water Filter: Portable or purification tablets.
- Mug, Bowl & Spoon: Lightweight.
- Snacks: Energy-dense for quick fuel.
Other
- Headlamp: With extra batteries.
- Knife or Multi-Tool: Essential for various uses.
About this route
The Auyuittuq Traverse is a historic route that cuts through the heart of Auyuittuq National Park on Baffin Island, Nunavut. Situated in the Canadian High Arctic, this traverse follows the Akshayuk Pass, a glacially-carved corridor connecting North Pangnirtung Fjord to South Pangnirtung Fjord. The park, whose name means โthe land that never meltsโ in Inuktitut, is renowned for its stunning granite peaks, deep fjords, and expansive glaciers. The route has been used by the Inuit for thousands of years as a travel corridor and has since become a bucket-list destination for adventurers eager to experience one of the worldโs most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Contact Us
Have a question about joining our Baffin Island experience? Get in touch.
MEET Alyssa
Part leader, part friend, part superhero, meet Alyssa Whoaa and the rest of our team.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Donโt own a backpack, tent or sleeping bag? We provide all major gear for those who request it at no additional charge. We also take care of all group items like stoves, food, water filters, first aid and more. Your guides will do the cooking and dishes. Just show up with your personal items ready to hike!
Related treks
-
6 days | 50 Miles | Aug, Sept
View trek dates
Select Date Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
4 days | 25 Miles | Mar, Apr, May, Sept, Oct, Nov
View trek dates
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
6 days | 45 Miles | MAY, JUNE, SEPT, OCT
View trek dates
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
custom duration | Miles | all months
View trek dates
Sign Up This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.