Skip to main content

Drive on the Ice Roads

One of Yellowknife's coolest way to travel - check out the famous Ice Roads!

If you’re in Yellowknife, it’s likely you’ve heard of Ice Road Truckers - maybe that’s what’s inspired you to visit our extraordinary community. While the Northwest Territories has a number of Ice Roads, Yellowknife is closest to the Dettah Ice Road, a seven-kilometre-long ice road connecting Yellowknife to Dettah that is typically open from late December to mid-April. This road is maintained by the Government of the Northwest Territories and offers a helpful and quicker alternative to get to Dettah. It also provides unique opportunities to get a "nICE" photo of the frozen lake beneath it. 

Important safety tips:

  • Always be road aware and ensure you pull over to the shoulder of the ice road;
  • If you stop to take photos, ensure it is in a safe location where you are visible, in the daylight;
  • Keep an eye on traffic;
  • Wear warm clothing;
  • Make sure you remain alert while on the ice road.