Natla-Keele River

The Natla-Keele is one of the most spectacular, yet unknown, rivers in the Northwest Territories. The trip begins with an awe-inspiring flight through the mountains to O’Grady Lake – a blue jewel near the Yukon border and the headwaters of the Natla River (the southern-most branch of the Keele River). The river drops over 600 metres (2000’) in 200 km of swifts and rapids – similar to the famous Rock Gardens on the Nahanni. This section of the trip is for the avid canoeist who has solid whitewater skills. After joining the Keele River, the route flows another 300 km through beautiful mountain ranges to the Mackenzie River. The river valley is home to caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and wolves. The Keele is a fun stretch with lots of runnable rapids which are suitable for paddlers of all skill levels.

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.

Natla River NWT with Black Feather

What's included

Guides

6:1 ratio

Accommodation

17 nights camping
1 night in Norman Wells

Meals

all meals & snacks from Day 1 lunch to Day 18 lunch

Canoeing Equipment

17’ ABS expedition canoes with spray decks and knee pads
paddles, PFDs, throw bags, paddling helmets

Camping Equipment

tents – free standing expedition dome tents – 2 per tent
‘kitchen’ – tarp, fire box, cooking stoves, utensils, dishes, etc
containers for food and group equipment

Safety Equipment

first aid, safety, river rescue, and repair kits
communications equipment (satellite phone)

Transportation

charter float plane flight from Norman Wells to O’Grady Lake – Day 1
shuttle of group and gear from the mouth of the Keele River to Norman Wells
transportation of guides, group gear, food, etc. to Norman Wells
ground transfer between Norman Wells Airport and Black Feather Base / float plane docks on Day 1, and from the hotel to the airport on Day 19