Museums & culture

Herschel Island - Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park

2 min read

Historic whaling buildings at Pauline Cove, Herschel Island

Qikiqtaruk means 'it is an island' in Inuvialuktun. It sits in the Beaufort Sea, 5 km off the north Yukon coast, and holds one of the most remarkable historical sites in the North: Pauline Cove, where American whalers over-wintered from 1890 to 1907, joined by Anglican missionaries, RCMP officers and Inuvialuit families. Twelve original wooden buildings still stand, including the 1893 Community House, the oldest frame building in the Yukon. Muskoxen, caribou and polar bears all use the island.

The island is also one of the most rapidly-changing places in Canada — permafrost is thawing, coastlines are retreating up to 22 metres per year, and the ranger station has been moved twice. Visits are limited to summer and are almost always by expedition cruise ship (Adventure Canada, One Ocean) or charter Zodiac from Inuvik. Yukon Parks rangers, often Inuvialuit, guide walks around Pauline Cove and up Collinson Head.

Hours

Park staffed Jun 15-Aug 31 daily 8:00-20:00

Rangers reachable by VHF radio in season

Closed to visitors Sep-May

Frequently asked questions

What does it cost to visit?

The park itself is free. Getting there is not: a charter Zodiac day trip from Inuvik costs about $2,000 per person, and cruise ship berths that include Herschel run $8,000-15,000 USD.

Are there free-entry days?

Every open day is free — there is no admission fee at any point.

How long is a visit?

Cruise landings are typically 4-6 hours ashore. Independent kayakers and researchers sometimes stay 3-5 days at the campsite by Pauline Cove.

When is it closed?

The park is only staffed and open to visitors from June 15 to August 31. September through May there is no access, no rangers and sea ice blocks the coast.

Do I need to book?

Yes. Contact Yukon Parks at 867-667-5648 at least 30 days ahead to register your visit, and book cruises or charters 6-12 months in advance.

How do I get there?

Fly to Inuvik, NT, then either join a scheduled expedition cruise or charter with Aklak Air (floatplane) or a Zodiac operator. There is no scheduled service and no road.