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National park · Pangnirtung, Nunavut
Auyuittuq National Park
A park of granite mountains, glaciers and glacial valleys on Baffin Island, cut by the Akshayuk Pass, with Mount Thor’s cliff and the Arctic Circle.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Auyuittuq National Park
Auyuittuq National Park occupies the Cumberland Peninsula on the east of Baffin Island. The name, in Inuktitut, means “land that never melts,” because of the Penny Ice Cap, which covers part of the park. Granite peaks, glaciers and U-shaped valleys create a mountain landscape on an immense scale.
The Akshayuk Pass runs roughly 97 km through the park, from Overlord near Pangnirtung to the north coast. Along the route are the Arctic Circle, marked by a cairn, and Mount Thor, with one of the world’s largest vertical rock drops, over 1,000 meters. Further on, Mount Asgard has a flat summit between two towers.
Most visitors travel by boat from Pangnirtung to Overlord and hike one or a few days through the valley, using emergency shelters. Independent hikers must register and attend the park orientation, which includes polar bear safety.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One day to two weeks.
Best time
From July to August, when the fjord is free of ice for boats and trails are open. Meltwater rivers are easier to cross in the morning.
How to get there
By boat from Pangnirtung to Overlord, about 30 km, when fjord ice allows; or by snowmobile in spring.
Tip
Plan buffer days: wind, fog and ice can delay boats and flights. Stop at the park centre in Pangnirtung before setting out.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Auyuittuq National Park
What does Auyuittuq mean?
Land that never melts, in Inuktitut.
How do you get to Auyuittuq Park?
By boat from Pangnirtung to Overlord, when the ice allows.
What is Mount Thor?
A mountain with one of the largest vertical rock faces in the world, over 1,000 meters.
Do you need orientation to enter Auyuittuq?
Yes — people hiking independently must register and complete the park orientation.