Norman Wells, NT

The Sahtu Region Connector

Nestled in the Mackenzie Valley, between towering mountains and the mighty Mackenzie River, Norman Wells is a picturesque community, and the largest in the Sahtu Region of the Northwest Territories.
Norman Wells has been buzzing with activity since Imperial Oil obtained leases to drill in the area in 1920. Oil seeps had been recorded as early as 1770s, when explorer Alexander Mackenzie noted that the local Dene people used the oil to waterproof their canoes.
The discovery of oil in Norman Wells also encouraged the growth of the aviation industry in the Northwest Territories because of the easy access to oils and lubricants for the planes. Today, local airline North-Wright Airways maintains a museum celebrating the history of aviation in the area.
The Canol Trail is another popular attraction for visitors to Norman Wells, a rustic hiking trail that leads from Norman Wells all the way into Yukon Territory. Originally setup up as a small pipeline in the 1940s to transfer oil from Norman Wells to Whitehorse, it is now a time portal tracing the history of the industry.
Norman Wells isn't just about oil and planes, however. As you would expect anywhere in the Northwest Territories, world-class fishing, boating, canoeing, snowmobiling, hiking and exploring all await the seasoned and new adventure seeker. When you get back from the trail, hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants and even a seasonal food truck will make your stay in Norman Wells comfortable and pleasurable.

THINGS TO DO IN NORMAN WELLS

• Visit the Norman Wells Historical Centre

• Visit the Aviation Museum at DOT Lake

• Hiking in the mountain ridges of the Mackenzie Mountains

• Boat to the trail head for the Canol Trail

• Take a Boat Tour up the Mackenzie River