Campertravel through Northern Alberta

21-Day RV Road Trip Through Northern Alberta & the Northwest Territories

Discover the rugged beauty of northern Canada on this 21-day RV adventure. Starting in Edmonton, you'll travel into the Northwest Territories, where vast boreal forests, impressive rivers, national parks, and remote communities define the landscape. Along the way, you'll visit the remarkable Wood Buffalo National Park, the vibrant city of Yellowknife, and the spectacular Nahanni National Park. With long scenic drives and untouched wilderness, this itinerary is perfect for travelers looking to experience Canada's true North.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Edmonton
Pick up your RV and settle in before starting your adventure.

Day 2 – Edmonton to Peace River (approx. 490 km / 305 miles)
Drive north through Alberta to Peace River, a charming town located along the river of the same name.

Day 3 – Peace River to High Level (approx. 390 km / 242 miles)
Travel through expansive forests with excellent opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

Day 4 – High Level to Fort Smith (approx. 290 km / 180 miles)
Cross into the Northwest Territories and continue to Fort Smith, the gateway to Wood Buffalo National Park.

Day 5 – Wood Buffalo National Park
Spend the day exploring Canada's largest national park, famous for its free-roaming bison, wetlands, and spectacular waterfalls.

Day 6 – Fort Smith to Hay River (approx. 275 km / 171 miles)
Follow the shores of Great Slave Lake to the welcoming community of Hay River.

Day 7 – Hay River to Yellowknife (approx. 490 km / 305 miles)
Drive across the Mackenzie River Bridge as you make your way to Yellowknife.

Days 8 & 9 – Yellowknife
Explore the capital of the Northwest Territories, including Old Town, Great Slave Lake, local art galleries, and—depending on the season—the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

Day 10 – Yellowknife to Fort Providence (approx. 315 km / 196 miles)
Enjoy a scenic drive through the vast northern wilderness.

Day 11 – Fort Providence to Fort Simpson (approx. 320 km / 199 miles)
Follow the Mackenzie Highway to Fort Simpson, the gateway to Nahanni National Park.

Day 12 – Fort Simpson
Spend the day exploring the community or simply relaxing.

Day 13 – Nahanni National Park Excursion
Take a breathtaking flightseeing tour or day excursion into Nahanni National Park, home to the famous Virginia Falls, dramatic canyons, and pristine wilderness.

Day 14 – Fort Simpson to Hay River (approx. 520 km / 323 miles)

Day 15 – Hay River to High Level (approx. 440 km / 273 miles)

Day 16 – High Level to Peace River (approx. 390 km / 242 miles)

Day 17 – Peace River to Lesser Slave Lake (approx. 340 km / 211 miles)
Enjoy the area's beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and peaceful lakeside setting.

Day 18 – Lesser Slave Lake
Relax by the lake, go canoeing, or visit the Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation.

Day 19 – Lesser Slave Lake to Edmonton (approx. 250 km / 155 miles)

Day 20 – Edmonton
Spend your final full day exploring Alberta's capital, visiting a museum, shopping, or enjoying one of the city's many restaurants.

Day 21 – Depart Edmonton
Return your RV and begin your journey home.

Highlights

• Wood Buffalo National Park
• Great Slave Lake
• Yellowknife
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights (August and September)
• Nahanni National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Mackenzie River
• Lesser Slave Lake
• Excellent opportunities to spot bison, bears, moose, and other wildlife
• Authentic northern Canadian culture

Travel Tip

The best time to travel this route is from June through September, when road conditions are favorable and temperatures are pleasant. If you visit in August or September, you'll also have an excellent chance of experiencing the spectacular Northern Lights on clear nights.