Quttinirpaaq National Park is Canada’s most-northerly park. Situated on the northern tip of Ellesmere Island, it is less than 500 miles from the North Pole. This is a vast land with fiords, mountains, glaciers, high arctic tundra, glacial streams, and one of the largest and deepest lakes in the Arctic. In places, we hike through fields of wildflowers and lichens. A strange “thermal oasis” at Lake Hazen, in the centre of the park, results in increased vegetation to support a higher density of wildlife. Muskoxen, arctic foxes and wolves, rare Peary caribou, herds of huge, white Arctic hares, and even polar bears, share the route. Humans are so rare that when you encounter the local wildlife they do not react in fear.

Our expedition begins at Tanquary Fiord and ascends wide river valleys – past alpine lakes and into the high mountains to view the spectacular Air Force and Fiala Glaciers. The Ad Astra Trek is one of the most-unique expeditions on earth for the seasoned hiker with a reasonable level of fitness.

Want to Learn More?

Click here to access a detailed trip package with an itinerary and a full list of inclusions and exclusions. We hope to offer this trip again in 2024 so if you are interested, please contact us to join our pre-registration list!

What's included

Map

Guides

  • 6:1 ratio
Accommodation

Accommodation

  • 14 nights of camping
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Resolute
Meals

Meals

  • meals and snacks from Day 3 lunch to Day 17 lunch
  • hotel meals in Resolute on Days 1, 2, 3 and 17
Camping

Camping Equipment

  • expedition dome tents – 2 per tent
  • “kitchen”: tarp, cooking stoves, utensils, dishes, etc.
  • containers for food and group equipment
Safety

Safety Equipment

  • first aid, safety, river crossing, and repair kits
  • communications equipment (satellite phone)
Transportation

Transportation

  • charter flight from Resolute Bay to Ellesmere Island and return – Days 3 and 17
  • transportation of guides, group gear, food, etc. to Resolute