Getting to Nahanni National Park
Nahanni National Park sits in NT, Canada, with Nahanni Butte the nearest town of any size — about 130 km (81.1 mi) out, or roughly 2 hr 22 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Nahanni Butte | 130 km (81.1 mi) | 2 hr 22 min |
| Fort Simpson | 226 km (140 mi) | 3 hr 46 min |
| Norman Wells | 420 km (261 mi) | 6 hr 37 min |
| Gamèti | 505 km (314 mi) | 7 hr 53 min |
| Behchokǫ̀ | 513 km (319 mi) | 8 hr |
| Hay River | 530 km (329 mi) | 8 hr 15 min |
| Yellowknife | 593 km (368 mi) | 9 hr 10 min |
| Fort Smith | 761 km (473 mi) | 11 hr 39 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Nahanni National Park?
Nahanni Butte, about 130 km (81.1 mi) away — roughly 2 hr 22 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Nahanni National Park?
The practical bases are Nahanni Butte, Fort Simpson, and Norman Wells — all within a reasonable drive of the park.