Well it’s thanks to some locals, Ragged Riders Snowsports Society, and the City of Yellowknife who came together to create and maintain Bristol Pit, Yellowknife's snowboarding hill. If you’re hoping to test out the hill and shred while in Yellowknife, Ragged Riders offer rentals and lessons.
Even though Yellowknife gets limited sunlight in the winter, it’s still filled with shining lights to bring cheer to out community! The Festival of Lights begins with the lighting of the tree at Somba K’e Park in December. After the festivities have begun and you’re done marveling at the twinkling lights, head over to the Legislative Assembly to listen to live music, pick up some snacks, and maybe get a visit from a special someone visiting from the North Pole.
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.
You’ll often hear locals talk about how amazing March is - the sun is back, temperatures are warmer, and when you venture out to Great Slave Lake, you’ll see a giant snow castle! Throughout March, lots of events will be hosted here for Snowking’s Winter Festival, from comedy shows, concerts and dances. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet the Snowking himself or some of his team. Each year has a different theme and the theme for 2025 was medieval. Keep checking the snowking's website for the 2026 theme!
You’ll often hear locals talk about how amazing March is - the sun is back, temperatures are warmer, and when you venture out to Great Slave Lake, you’ll see a giant snow castle! Throughout March, lots of events will be hosted here for Snowking’s Winter Festival, from comedy shows, concerts and dances. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet the Snowking himself or some of his team. Each year has a different theme, and 2025’s is medieval!
Take a trip to the Ice Caves! Is there anything better than being outside on a crisp winter’s day with friends, with a four-legged friend or solo, making your way to a beautiful natural ice cave? It’s important to arrive there safely, so make sure you follow these tips:
NOTE: Do NOT walk on the Yellowknife Ski Club Trails - walking is very hard and the snow is deep, so it is dangerous.
Looking to get active outside? Grab some cross country skis or snowshoes and get moving. Don’t forget to take some photos of the gorgeous landscape and your frosted eyelashes to prove you made the journey.
Check out the Yellowknife Ski Club for events happening, to check out the trails and buy a day pass, or sign up for lessons.
Yellowknife is surrounded by numerous beautiful lakes, some having the ability to double as skating rinks in the winter if you’re willing to brave the chill! The City of Yellowknife also maintains a number of outdoor rinks around the City. Make sure that you always check the Ice Thickness Table before venturing out for your activity! These facilities are free, but make sure you bring your own skates and gear, as there are no rentals.
The Loppet is a fun, family event for skiers of all abilities. The route is specially groomed and track set (classic-style) for this special one-day event each year. Starting from Vee Lake, the Loppet includes loops of 4 km, 15 km and 25 km on Vee, Jackson, Banting and Walsh Lakes.
Registration includes snacks at the checkpoints, loppet swag, and an apres-ski lunch at the Ski Club Chalet!
To learn more, visit: http://skiyellowknife.com/events/.
Looking to get outside for an ultimate challenge? The Frostbite 55 is a 55 kilometre continuous foot (running or snowshoeing) or classic ski event on an ungroomed trail. Compete solo or as part of a team. To learn more, visit: http://www.frostbite50.com/.