Baffin Island
Original price was: $500.$250Current price is: $250.
2 Weeks | 60 miles| Auyuittuq National Park
Summer 2026
Starts in Ottawa, Canada
Explore the raw, unspoiled beauty of Canada’s 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 for experienced backpackers ready to challenge themselves in one of the planet’s most remote and breathtaking regions. Your $250 deposit lets us know you’re interested and is fully refundable.
Why Baffin Island?
Though I grew up hiking the Sierra of California, I remember watching documentaries of Baffin Island in the early 2000s while living and working in Toronto, Canada. This was around the time the Nunavut became an official Canadian territory. The stunning, untamed wilderness of Baffin Island has been on my radar for more than 20 years. In 2026, we are going to make this experience a reality.
You’re invited to join us.
With the recent addition of Alyssa Whoaa to our team, who comes with firsthand Arctic experience, TSX is building a once-in-a-lifetime experience to enable access to this remote region for the summer of 2026.
Ready to challenge yourself in one of the most breathtaking, remote landscapes on Earth? We are planning a summer 2026 expedition to complete the Auyuittuq Traverse, located on Canada’s Baffin Island, where towering granite peaks, vast glaciers, and glacially carved valleys await.
We are taking indications of interest to join the adventure. Let us know you’re interested by signing up with a fully refundable $250 deposit. Your Arctic adventure begins here.
– Chris Casado, Co-Founder TSX Challenge
Baffin Island trek details at a glance
All information is tentative; additional trek dates, details, timing and pricing will be confirmed by Summer 2025.
- Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights
- Distance: Approximately 97 km (60 miles)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Group Size: Maximum 10 participants, including expert guides
- Season: Late July to mid-August (optimal for Arctic conditions)
- Meetup Location: Ottawa, Canada
How it works
A $250 deposit is required upon registration and is 100% refundable until trek dates, details, timing and pricing are finalized and accepted during the summer of 2025.
Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime
Explore the raw, unspoiled beauty of Baffin Island’s 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 planet’s 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, including expert guides
- Season: Late July to mid-August (optimal for Arctic conditions)
Sample Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Qikiqtarjuaq (Broughton Island)
- Activities: Meet in Ottawa for a group flight to Qikiqtarjuaq, arriving in the late afternoon. We’ll stay overnight at a guesthouse, enjoy a welcome dinner, and have a trip briefing and equipment check.
- Elevation: 0 ft (sea level)
Day 2: Parks Canada Orientation & Fjord Boat Transfer
- Activities: Begin the day with an orientation at the Parks Canada office. Take a 50-mile boat journey (6 hours) across Davis Strait and down North Pangnirtung Fjord, then hike into the Owl River Valley.
- Distance: 3-4 miles hiking
- Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Days 3-4: Hike Along Owl River Valley
- Activities: Hike along the eastern side of the Owl River Valley. The terrain is rocky, with several glacial stream crossings. We’ll camp near Schwartzenbach Falls and explore nearby side valleys.
- Distance: 6-8 miles per day
- Elevation Gain: 800-1,200 ft per day
Day 5: Ascend to Windy Lake
- Activities: A steady uphill climb takes us to Windy Lake, a dramatic location near the Weasel River. This section features rocky terrain and breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers.
- Distance: 7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft
Day 6: Explore Rundle Glacier & Crater Lake
- Activities: Optional day hike to Rundle Glacier or Crater Lake, exploring glacial moraines and turquoise meltwater lakes. This is a layover day to rest and take in the incredible scenery.
- Distance: 4-6 miles (day hike)
- Elevation Gain: 800 ft (optional hike)
Days 7-8: Summit Lake & Akshayuk Pass High Point
- Activities: Continue the ascent to Summit Lake, the highest point of the pass at 2,100 ft. Enjoy panoramic views of the Penny Ice Cap and surrounding peaks.
- Distance: 8-10 miles over two days
- Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft (cumulative)
Day 9: Descend into Weasel River Valley
- Activities: Begin the descent along the Weasel River Valley, passing Mount Asgard and Mount Thor. The route features steep, rocky terrain and multiple glacial stream crossings.
- Distance: 7-8 miles
- Elevation Loss: 1,200-1,500 ft
Days 10-11: Traverse to Crater Lake & Breidablik
- Activities: Hike toward Crater Lake and camp near Mount Breidablik. Take in views of the dramatic cliffs of Mount Thor, with its towering 4,101 ft vertical face.
- Distance: 6-8 miles per day
- Elevation Loss: 1,000-1,200 ft per day
Day 12: Reach South Pangnirtung Fjord
- Activities: Complete the descent to the fjord, where tidal fluctuations can reach 30 ft. Set up camp at the edge of South Pangnirtung Fjord, marking the end of our traverse.
- Distance: 5-7 miles
- Elevation Loss: 800 ft
Day 13: Boat Ride to Pangnirtung & Celebrate
- Activities: Board a boat for a one-hour scenic ride down the fjord to Pangnirtung. Enjoy a celebratory dinner hosted by a local family and stay overnight.
- Elevation: Return to sea level
Day 14: Explore Pangnirtung & Depart for Ottawa
- Activities: Spend the morning exploring cultural sites in Pangnirtung. Fly to Iqaluit and onward to Ottawa, where our Arctic adventure concludes.
- Elevation: 0 ft (sea level)
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?
- A $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 2025, at which time an additional deposit will be required.
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 -1°C to +11°C 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, polar bears, and a variety of Arctic birds.
7. What cultural experiences are included?
- You’ll explore Qikiqtarjuaq and Pangnirtung, visit art co-ops, and possibly share a meal with a local family in Pangnirtung.
8. How do I get to the start of the trek?
- We organize a group flight from Ottawa to Qikiqtarjuaq and assist with travel logistics.
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. You’ll 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 you’ll need to bring:
Personal Gear (provided as needed)
- Backpack: 70-90 liters, with a comfortable hip belt and sturdy frame.
- Dry Bags: To keep gear dry and organized.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to -10°C (14°F) 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 “the land that never melts” 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 world’s 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.
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