Old Crow

Old Crow is a truly unique destination that offers an authentic glimpse into life above the Arctic Circle. As the only community in the Yukon that cannot be reached by road, this secluded village provides a sense of tranquility and isolation that is hard to find elsewhere. Located at the confluence of the Crow and Porcupine rivers, it is a place where traditional ways of life are preserved and celebrated amidst the breathtaking wilderness of northern Canada.

With a population of approximately 226 residents, Old Crow is a tight-knit community predominantly inhabited by the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation. The geography here is defined by vast tundra, winding rivers, and the stunning backdrop of the Richardson Mountains. Visitors should be prepared for a true subarctic climate, characterized by long, cold winters perfect for viewing the Northern Lights, and short, vibrant summers where the Midnight Sun shines around the clock.

The cultural heritage of this region is profound. To fully appreciate the resilience and traditions of the local people, delving into the history of Old Crow is highly recommended. The area is famous for its connection to the massive Porcupine Caribou Herd, whose annual migration is vital to the local culture and subsistence. Travelers can learn more about this symbiotic relationship and the region's natural history at the John Tizya Centre, a cultural hub that shares the stories of the Vuntut Gwitchin people.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Old Crow is an unforgettable choice. Whether you are interested in witnessing the spectacular caribou migration, exploring the untouched Arctic landscape, or simply experiencing the warm hospitality of a remote northern community, this village invites you to discover a side of the world that few get to see.

Old Crow experiences a true subarctic climate, defined by extreme seasonal contrasts that shape life in this remote community. To plan your trip effectively, it is helpful to check the detailed weather in Old Crow, as conditions change drastically between seasons. The village endures long, freezing winters where temperatures in January average -27.6°C and can plummet to lows of -30.3°C.

In contrast, the short summer season offers a welcome respite with mild and comfortable conditions. July is typically the warmest month, featuring average temperatures of 16.6°C and daily highs reaching 21.7°C. While the winter months are quite dry with minimal precipitation, the summer brings more frequent moisture, with August seeing up to 14 wet days despite relatively low rainfall totals.

Spring and autumn are brief transition periods. By May, the average temperature climbs to 4.9°C, whereas October sees a quick return to freezing conditions with averages around -5.5°C. Overall, travelers should expect warm summers with occasional rain and cold, dry winters.

• A Window to the Ice Age: The area surrounding the village, particularly the Old Crow Flats, is a paleontological treasure trove. It is considered one of the most significant sites in Canada for discovering Ice Age fossils, yielding thousands of bones from woolly mammoths, giant beavers, and ancient horses that roamed the land thousands of years ago.

• Literary Fame: The village gained international attention through the writings of Edith Josie, a Vuntut Gwitchin elder. For over four decades, she wrote a column titled "Here Are the News" for the Whitehorse Star, offering the world a charming, witty, and authentic glimpse into the daily life of this remote settlement.

• Ancient Human History: This region challenges history books regarding the first inhabitants of the continent. Archaeological discoveries at the nearby Bluefish Caves suggest that humans lived here approximately 24,000 years ago, which is significantly earlier than previously believed for human migration into North America.

• A Dry Community: Visitors should be aware that Old Crow is a "dry" community. To promote the health and well-being of the population, the possession and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited within the village, a policy that reflects the community's commitment to social wellness.

Reaching this remote community is an adventure in itself, as it is one of the few places in the region accessible primarily by air. For a detailed guide on planning your journey and understanding the logistics, you can read more about how to get to Old Crow. The flight offers spectacular views of the Arctic landscape, setting the tone for a unique visit.

The main entry point for all visitors is Old Crow Airport (IATA: YOC). Located directly in the settlement, it is just 0.5 km from the center of the village. This small facility is the community's lifeline, handling an annual passenger traffic of approximately 3,000 people. Due to its location within the village, the transfer to local accommodations is immediate; you should allow just a few minutes for the overall process of arrival and a short taxi or shuttle ride. You can find more details about the facility on the Old Crow Airport page.

Because there are no direct flights from major international cities, travelers often connect through regional hubs. A common transit point is Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport (IATA: YEV), situated in the city of Inuvik, about 278 km away. It is a more active regional hub with an annual passenger traffic of around 52,000. It is important to note that there are no roads connecting Inuvik to the village, so this airport serves strictly as a connecting point for a subsequent flight. You can learn more about this hub on the Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport page.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airports:

Attractions in Old Crow are not defined by ticket booths or long lines, but rather by the profound connection between the land, the wildlife, and the culture of the Vuntut Gwitchin people. The village serves as a gateway to some of the most pristine and remote wilderness areas in the world, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the Arctic environment in its most authentic form.

John Tizya Centre is the cultural heart of the community and typically the first stop for any visitor. Named in honor of a respected elder, this modern facility beautifully preserves and shares the oral history and traditions of the local people. Inside, you can explore exhibits featuring Ice Age fossils found in the Old Crow riverbanks and learn about the deep spiritual and subsistence bond between the people and the Porcupine Caribou Herd. It provides essential context for understanding the unique way of life in this remote settlement.

For those seeking true wilderness, Vuntut National Park offers an unparalleled backcountry experience. Located north of the village, this vast protected area encompasses a landscape of rugged peaks and sweeping tundra. It was established primarily to safeguard the migration routes and calving grounds of the caribou. With no roads or marked trails, it is a destination for experienced adventurers looking to hike, canoe, and observe wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, and wolverines in a completely untouched habitat.

St. Luke's Anglican Church stands as a historic landmark within the village. Constructed from local logs, this charming building is a testament to the durability of traditional craftsmanship in the harsh subarctic climate. It has served as a central gathering place for worship and community events for decades. Visitors are often drawn to its rustic architecture and the sense of peace it offers, providing a glimpse into the spiritual history of the settlement.

Just a short distance from the village lies the Old Crow Flats, a massive wetland complex of international ecological significance. Recognized as a Ramsar site, this intricate maze of shallow lakes and marshes is a critical breeding ground for hundreds of thousands of waterfowl each summer. For the local community, it is a traditional hunting and trapping area that has sustained them for millennia. It is a spectacular spot for birdwatching and photography, showcasing the vibrant biodiversity of the Arctic summer.

The culinary experience in Old Crow is defined not by commercial restaurants, but by a deep and enduring connection to the land. Here, the concept of "farm-to-table" is replaced by "land-to-table," with a diet heavily reliant on traditional "country food" harvested from the surrounding wilderness. For visitors, this offers a rare chance to understand the subsistence lifestyle of the Vuntut Gwitchin people, where every meal tells a story of survival and respect for nature.

The absolute staple of the local diet is caribou from the Porcupine Caribou Herd. It is prepared in various ways, from hearty stews and roasts to dry meat, a traditional preservation method that creates a nutrient-dense snack perfect for long days on the land. Fish is another cornerstone of the cuisine, particularly whitefish and salmon, which are often smoked or dried for the winter. You will also likely encounter bannock, a simple yet delicious fried or baked bread that accompanies almost every meal, often served warm with butter or jam.

When it comes to beverages, the choices reflect the rugged environment and community values. A local favorite is Labrador tea (often called bush tea), brewed from the aromatic leaves of a native plant found in the tundra; it is warming and rich in Vitamin C. It is crucial for all visitors to remember that Old Crow is a dry community. The sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited, so you will not find any bars or liquor stores here. Instead, social gatherings revolve around tea, coffee, and shared meals.

Travelers should be aware that there are no standard restaurants or cafes in Old Crow. The dining scene is entirely non-commercial. Visitors typically purchase groceries and supplies at the local Co-op store to prepare their own meals, or they may be provided with home-cooked meals if staying at a local bed and breakfast or lodge. On special occasions, the community gathers for feasts at the community hall, where large pots of soup, roasted meats, and berries—such as cloudberries and cranberries harvested in late summer—are shared in a spirit of hospitality.

Visiting Old Crow is a privilege that requires careful planning due to its isolation and unique cultural setting. These practical tips will help you navigate the logistics of the Arctic and ensure a respectful and comfortable stay in this welcoming community.

1. Clothing and Gear: Preparation is key for the extreme climate. In winter, certified cold-weather gear, including a heavy parka and insulated boots, is non-negotiable. If visiting in summer, bring breathable layers and, most importantly, high-quality insect repellent and a head net, as mosquitoes and black flies can be intense in the wetlands.

2. Transportation: Forget about rental cars, taxis, or ride-hailing apps; this compact village is best explored on foot. The community is small enough to walk from the airport to most accommodations, while locals typically travel by ATV in summer and snowmobile in winter.

3. Finances: The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While the local Co-op store generally accepts credit and debit cards, system outages can occur in the north. It is highly advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially if you plan to purchase beadwork or traditional crafts directly from local artisans.

4. Health and Safety: Medical facilities are limited to a local Nursing Station that handles basic care; serious emergencies require a medical evacuation flight. Always practice "bear safety" by carrying bear spray and staying alert, as the village is located in prime grizzly and black bear country.

5. Communication: English is widely spoken and is the main language for communication, though you may hear the Gwich'in language among elders. Be prepared for limited connectivity; Wi-Fi and cellular data (typically 3G/4G) rely on satellite connections and can be slower or less reliable than in southern cities.

6. Local Etiquette: The Vuntut Gwitchin people are known for their hospitality, and it is customary to greet people you pass on the road with a smile or wave. Always ask for explicit permission before taking photographs of residents, their children, or their private property, such as fish-drying racks.

7. What to Avoid: Do not bring alcohol into the village under any circumstances. Old Crow is a strictly dry community, and the possession or transportation of alcohol is prohibited by law and is considered deeply disrespectful to the community's wellness values.

8. Dining Logistics: Since there are no restaurants in the village, you must be self-sufficient. Plan to purchase groceries at the local Co-op store or bring some non-perishable supplies with you, keeping in mind that fresh produce prices reflect the cost of air freight.

By packing wisely and respecting local customs, you will be well-prepared to embrace the solitude and beauty of the Yukon. Enjoy the warmth of the community and the unforgettable experience of life on the edge of the Arctic.

Travelers planning a visit to Old Crow must adjust their expectations regarding nightlife. As a strictly "dry" community where the sale and possession of alcohol are prohibited, you will not find any bars, nightclubs, or pubs in the village. Instead of a bustling party scene with loud music and cocktails, the evening entertainment here is defined by tranquility, community connection, and the spectacular natural phenomena of the Arctic sky.

The concept of a "night out" in this remote settlement revolves around nature and local social gatherings. During the long winter nights, the primary attraction is the Aurora Borealis. With zero light pollution, the entire village serves as a front-row seat to this dazzling display. The banks of the Porcupine River offer an expansive, unobstructed view, making it the perfect "venue" for spending hours watching the dancing lights. In the summer, the "nightlife" is nonexistent in a different way; the Midnight Sun means the sun never sets, allowing for hiking, boating, and socializing well into the early morning hours under bright daylight.

For social interaction, the heartbeat of the community is the Old Crow Community Hall. This is where the village comes together for evening entertainment, which often includes community feasts, traditional fiddle dances, and popular bingo nights. These events are warm, welcoming, and offer a genuine insight into the Vuntut Gwitchin culture. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with no dress code other than dressing warmly for the weather. Visitors are typically welcomed with open arms, but it is respectful to follow the lead of locals regarding participation.

Walking around the village at night is generally safe in terms of crime, as the community is small and tight-knit. However, safety from wildlife is a serious consideration. Whether you are walking near the airport or along the river, always be aware that you are in bear country. It is advisable to walk in groups and carry bear spray, even within the village limits, especially during the shoulder seasons when it is dark. There are no taxi services, but the village is compact enough that you can walk everywhere, provided you are dressed for the extreme temperatures.

While evening options are limited to nature and community events, daytime entertainment offers cultural depth. The John Tizya Centre is the premier destination for learning about the region's history and the Vuntut Gwitchin way of life. For outdoor enthusiasts, the days can be spent exploring the trails around the village or organizing trips into the surrounding wilderness. In Old Crow, entertainment is not about consumption but about experience, offering a peaceful retreat from the noise of the modern world.

Old Crow is a destination where the concept of a "park" expands to encompass vast, untouched wilderness, and "museums" are living centers of ancient tradition. In this remote community, green spaces are not manicured gardens but sprawling Arctic landscapes, and cultural venues serve as vital repositories for the oral histories and artifacts of the Vuntut Gwitchin people.

Vuntut National Park is the premier natural area in the region, offering a wilderness experience that is virtually unmatched in its isolation and purity. Located just north of the village, this park was established to protect the calving grounds of the Porcupine Caribou Herd. Unlike southern parks with paved trails and visitor centers, Vuntut is completely undeveloped, offering seasoned adventurers the chance to hike across sweeping tundra and rugged peaks without seeing another soul. It is a place of profound silence and beauty, where the landscape remains exactly as it has been for millennia.

Another area of immense natural significance is the Old Crow Flats (Van Tat), a vast wetland complex that lies to the north of the Porcupine River. While not a park in the traditional recreational sense, it is a globally recognized Ramsar wetland site and a critical habitat for half a million waterfowl. For visitors, a boat trip to the edge of the Flats offers a chance to see a thriving ecosystem that has sustained the local people for generations. The maze of shallow lakes and marshes is best explored with a local guide who can navigate the waterways and explain the area's ecological and cultural importance.

In terms of cultural institutions, the John Tizya Centre stands as the village's primary museum and gathering space. This modern facility is much more than a visitor center; it is the keeper of the community's memories. Inside, you will find fascinating exhibits detailing the natural history of the region, including the famous Ice Age fossils discovered in the eroding riverbanks. The centre also features displays on the traditional tools, clothing, and lifestyle of the Vuntut Gwitchin, providing deep insight into how the community has thrived in this harsh environment for centuries.

While not a museum in the strict sense, St. Luke's Anglican Church serves as a significant historical monument that reflects the village's post-contact heritage. Built from locally harvested logs, the church is a striking example of northern vernacular architecture. Inside, the simple yet beautiful interior offers a quiet space to reflect on the community's history, including the role of faith and the resilience of the people during the early days of the fur trade and missionary contact.

For a truly authentic experience, take a walk along the Porcupine River bank in the evening. This "living gallery" offers an informal look at daily life in Canada's north, where you might see fish wheels turning in the current or locals preparing their boats for a harvest. It is here, watching the river flow beneath the midnight sun or the northern lights, that you connect most deeply with the spirit of Old Crow.

Travelers arriving in Old Crow should immediately adjust their expectations regarding urban mobility, as there is absolutely no public transport system in the village. You will not find buses, trams, metros, or scheduled shuttles here. The infrastructure is designed for a small, remote community where everything is located within a very compact radius, making a formal transit network unnecessary.

Because there is no public transportation, there are no tickets, travel passes, or transport apps to worry about. You do not need to purchase any transit cards or learn about fare zones. The entire concept of paying for a ride within the village is virtually non-existent for a visitor, as there are no commercial taxi services or ride-hailing platforms like Uber operating in this remote location.

The primary and most effective way to navigate the village is simply on foot. The settlement is small enough that you can walk from one end to the other in about 15 to 20 minutes. Most key locations, including the airport, the Co-op store, the John Tizya Centre, and accommodations, are situated within a few hundred meters of each other. Visitors are advised to bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes in the summer and insulated, high-quality winter boots during the colder months.

While tourists walk, you will notice that locals typically get around using personal vehicles suited to the rugged terrain. In the summer, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and pickup trucks are the standard mode of transport, while snowmobiles (often called "skidoos") are essential during the long winter. While there are no official rental agencies for these vehicles for tourists, they are a defining feature of the local streetscape.

For arrival and departure, transport logistics are straightforward. The airport is located directly in the village, just a short walk from most lodging. However, if you have heavy luggage, your accommodation provider will typically arrange a pickup with a personal vehicle or a van. This service is usually included with your stay or arranged informally, further emphasizing the community-focused nature of getting around in this unique destination.

Accommodation in Old Crow is very different from what you might expect in a typical tourist destination. Due to the village's small size and remote location, lodging options are extremely limited and functional rather than luxurious. Travelers should not expect international hotel chains, hostels, or sprawling resorts. Instead, the available accommodation consists primarily of a community-run hotel and a few small bed-and-breakfast style setups operated by local residents. These facilities offer clean, warm, and comfortable bases for your Arctic adventures but are generally simple in terms of amenities.

Because the village is compact, location is rarely an issue when choosing where to stay. Almost all accommodation options are situated within the central area of the settlement, within easy walking distance of the Old Crow Airport, the Co-op store, and the John Tizya Centre. Staying in the heart of the village allows you to be close to the community's daily life and the scenic banks of the Porcupine River, which is convenient given the lack of public transportation.

Booking your stay requires significant advance planning. Since there are very few rooms available in the entire community, they can fill up quickly, especially during peak times like the caribou migration or when government officials and contractors are visiting. It is highly recommended to secure your reservation weeks or even months in advance. Unlike in larger cities, you cannot simply arrive and expect to find a vacancy.

Regarding costs and reservations, visitors should be prepared for higher prices compared to southern destinations. The cost of operating facilities in the Arctic—where fuel and supplies must be flown in—is reflected in the room rates, placing most options in the mid-to-high price range. Booking is rarely done through major online travel aggregators. Instead, you will typically need to contact the lodging providers directly via phone or email to confirm availability and make arrangements.

Given the remote location of Old Crow, the concept of neighboring cities takes on a different meaning in this vast northern landscape. Rather than serving as a base for quick day trips, the village is typically visited as part of a broader Arctic itinerary that includes major regional hubs. These destinations act as vital logistical gateways for flights into the community or offer complementary experiences for travelers exploring the rich history and geography of the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

Because Old Crow is accessible only by air, reaching any "nearby" destination involves a flight rather than a drive. Inuvik is the closest major service center and often serves as the immediate connection point for travelers. Located in the Northwest Territories, it acts as the gateway to the Beaufort Delta. Visitors transiting through here can explore the famous Igloo Church and experience a vibrant mix of Inuvialuit and Gwich'in cultures before continuing their journey.

To the south lies Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon and the primary entry point for most visitors to the territory. It is a bustling city with modern amenities, museums, and access to the Yukon River. Many itineraries begin here, with travelers flying north to experience the remote beauty of Old Crow. Another key stop on the flight network is Dawson City, renowned for its preserved Klondike Gold Rush architecture. A visit here offers a lively historical contrast to the quiet, traditional lifestyle found in Old Crow.

For those looking to extend their Arctic adventure to the coast, Tuktoyaktuk is a memorable addition. Situated on the shores of the Arctic Ocean, it allows travelers to witness the unique pingo landmarks and dip a toe into the frigid waters of the Beaufort Sea. While these locations are separated by hundreds of kilometers, they are connected by the shared experience of life in the North.

General Overview: Shopping in Old Crow is a unique experience defined by necessity and authenticity rather than commercial variety. As a remote fly-in community with a small population, the village does not have a retail sector in the traditional sense. There are no fashion boutiques, electronics stores, or souvenir shops lining the streets. Instead, shopping here revolves around a single general store that supplies the community with everything from groceries to hardware. For visitors, the true value lies in the opportunity to purchase handmade traditional crafts directly from local artisans, offering a connection to the Vuntut Gwitchin culture that mass-produced goods cannot provide.

Main Shopping Areas/Streets: The commercial activity of the village is concentrated in the central area near the riverbank and the airport. There is no "shopping district" or high street; rather, the Old Crow Co-op serves as the hub for all transactions. This is the place where residents and visitors alike go for food, household supplies, and basic outdoor gear. It acts as the lifeline for the community, receiving shipments of fresh produce and goods via air cargo.

Shopping Malls: Travelers should be aware that there are no shopping malls or department stores in Old Crow. The infrastructure is designed to support the subsistence lifestyle of the residents, and large-scale retail does not exist here. If you require specialized equipment, clothing, or electronics, it is essential to purchase these items in a larger city like Whitehorse before flying into the community.

Markets: There are no permanent markets or flea markets in the village. However, the community spirit is strong, and you may occasionally find pop-up sales or craft tables at the Old Crow Community Hall during special events, festivals, or holidays. These informal gatherings are excellent places to meet locals and see the incredible skill involved in traditional handiwork, though they do not occur on a fixed schedule.

Souvenirs: The best souvenirs to bring back from Old Crow are authentic handmade items crafted by the Vuntut Gwitchin people. The region is renowned for its exquisite beadwork and traditional clothing made from smoked moose hide or caribou skin. Look for beautifully intricate moccasins, mukluks, beaded gloves, and coin purses. You might also find carvings made from caribou antler. These items are often sold directly by the artists or occasionally displayed at the John Tizya Centre, and purchasing them directly supports the local economy and preserves cultural traditions.

Opening Hours and Payment: The local Co-op generally operates during standard business hours, typically from Monday to Saturday, with reduced hours or closures on Sundays. It is crucial to check the specific hours upon arrival, as they can change. regarding payment, the store usually accepts credit and debit cards; however, telecommunications in the Arctic can be unreliable. Systems may go down due to weather or satellite issues, so it is highly recommended to carry enough cash (Canadian Dollars) to cover your basic expenses and any purchases of local crafts, as individual artisans will likely only accept cash.

Tax-Free (if applicable): Canada does not offer a VAT refund system for tourists on general purchases. However, visitors will appreciate that the Yukon Territory has a distinct tax advantage: there is no Provincial Sales Tax (PST). You will only be charged the 5% federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) on goods and services, making purchases slightly more affordable compared to many other Canadian regions.