Yellowknife is the capital city and, in fact, the only city in the Northwest Territories. It rests on the northern shore of the Great Slave Lake and can be reached overland via the Yellowknife Highway.

This city of roughly 20,000 is surrounded by lakes, boreal forest, tundra and barren rock of the Canadian Shield. The city is a main jumping off point for visitors looking to explore the surrounding wilderness. Boating, hiking and flights into the interior can all begin in Yellowknife.

In addition to outdoor adventures, the region is rich with the cultures of the indigenous First Nation peoples. The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is dedicated to preserving and helping interpret these cultures, but elements can be found throughout the city.

Yellowknife is a remote destination, but is rich in opportunities for exploration. If you are looking for places off the grid, this is a bucket list contender.