Norman Wells is an historic town of about 800 nestled between the Mackenzie River and the Franklin Mountains. Its traditional name, Tlegohli means “Where There is Oil,” which makes sense given the town was established in 1920 with a small oil refinery. This largest Sahtu town is the governmental, industrial and transportation hub of the region and the place to launch innumerable Sahtu adventures.

This is the place to embark on an epic paddling adventure on world-class rivers. Norman Wells offers access to sixteen river systems by air from this fly-out outfitting centre.

Be sure to check out the incredible views offered by the hiking trails in the nearby Franklin Mountains, or dig for fossils in the aptly named Fossil Canyon to see what existed in the Sahtu in ancient times. Or, if you’re up for a big back-country expedition, Norman Wells is the place to launch a trek along the Canol Trail – known as the toughest hike in North America.

As the aviation hub of the Sahtu, it is also THE place for flightseeing tours. In the span of as little as 90 min, you can check off numerous gems of the Mackenzie Mountains. Don’t forget your camera!

Source : Spectacular Northwest Territories