Paddle the Remote East Arm of Great Slave Lake

Norm Hann Expeditions is excited to partner with Jackpine Paddles, leaders in Arctic paddling expeditions in the North West Territories, to offer a journey into the true wilderness of the fabled East Arm of Great Slave Lake and Thaidene Nene National Park. This is land celebrated by locals for its raw beauty and remote feel. As you paddle, you’ll glide through deep, crystal-clear waters, weaving among countless islands and narrow channels framed by towering red cliffs. This dramatic landscape, part of one of Canada’s newest and most protected national parks, is sculpted from some of the oldest rock on Earth—2.7 billion years old—creating a backdrop of staggering beauty and unforgettable campsites.

Each day brings new perspectives: sheer granite walls rising from the water, quiet bays perfect for exploration, and endless horizons where sky and lake meet. Along the way, you may spot moose grazing along the shorelines, black bears wandering the hills, and eagles soaring above, all thriving in this pristine wilderness. Evenings are spent around camp on wild, rocky shorelines, soaking in the silence and immensity of the North. For those who enjoy fishing, the East Arm is legendary for its spectacular lake trout, and there’s nothing quite like a fresh shore lunch cooked over an open fire.

To heighten the magic, our trip dates align with the autumn Aurora season. At night, look skyward to witness the northern lights—brilliant ribbons of green, purple, and red sweeping across the stars. Great Slave Lake sits directly under the magnetic “Aurora Belt,” making this one of the most reliable and awe-inspiring places on Earth to view the dancing sky.

This is more than a paddle—it’s a northern wilderness immersion in the protected beauty of Thaidene Nene National Park, filled with wildlife, epic landscapes, and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.