How to Plan a Trip to Inuvik, Northwest Territories

The popular reality show Ice Road Truckers is pushing Inuvik, Northwest Territories, onto the world stage. However, a visit to Inuvik requires a lot more planning than your typical destination. For starters, the town is located 3 degrees above the Arctic Circle. Depending on when you go, be prepared to dress for temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Be aware that, in the winter, your only way to get around is on an icy road, where weather can turn on a dime and roads can be closed at a moment's notice. The rewards of this planning (besides bragging rights) include encounters with unspoiled nature and wildlife, the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis in the winter, and intimate insight into native culture. Don't forget to dip your toe in the Arctic Ocean and buy your "I Survived Inuvik" T-shirt.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Decide when to go. In the winter, you'll be treated to a spectacular natural lights show courtesy of the northern lights, but you'll also be dealing with extreme weather, must be prepared to drive on an icy road as the ice cracks beneath you in a suitable vehicle, and be ready for road closures on short notice. In the summer brace yourself for 24-hour daylight, and "balmy" temps as high as the 80's, as well as the popular Great Northern Arts Festival.

2. Save your money. A trip to Inuvik from most anywhere will cost you becuase it is so isolated. If you drive, be prepared to budget for gas and possible last-minute repairs (you really don't want to have a breakdown, though, in a white-out). The vast Dempster Highway is regularly maintained, but it is still gravel so problems can happen. Cost-wise, even second-tier lodging is pricier than in most locales, as are food and supplies, which have to be shipped in from other areas.

3. Shop around for deals on flights. Because of its location, flights can get costly. From the Midwestern U.S., flights can cost upwards of $2,000. If you are under age 26 or a teacher, check out STA Travel for sometimes jaw-dropping deals on fares.

4. Inspect your car. If you drive at all bring at least two extra tires and extra cans of gas, because towns (and gas stations) are few and far between. Make sure your car has been serviced and the tires are in good condition.

5. Rent or buy arctic survival gear. You'll want winter boots, long johns, snow pants, a parka and lined gloves at minimum. This is not the time to cut corners. Look for gear that has been tested to withstand arctic temperatures. There is a science behind this. Look for gear that has been rated to withstand temps that dip well under zero degrees if you are headed to Inuvik in the winter.

6. Visit the city of Inuvik site. The site is loaded with information about climate, population, tips, attractions, tours and lodging. Not to miss: the "Igloo" church, a major landmark, and the innovative Inuvik Community Greenhouse, which was fashioned from an old arena.

7. Consider tours. To get the most bang from your experience, go on a tour of your liking. There are arctic nature explorations, tours of high arctic communities and the Mackenzie River. Depending on time of year, kayaking and canoeing expeditions are also available.

Tips & Warnings

• Know your limitations. These conditions are not for everyone. Unless you have experienced extreme winter conditions before and come prepared, you will probably not have a pleasant experience. A better season to consider would be summer, even though you'll miss out on the northern lights.

Resources

• City of Inuvik Official Web site -- Information, attractions and events in Inuvik
• STA Travel -- Student, youth and teacher discounts on travel fare, packages and lodging