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Sylvia Grinnell River: Iqaluit's Natural Heart

Explore Iqaluit's natural beauty at Sylvia Grinnell River, a vibrant park offering hiking, fishing, and a taste of the Arctic tundra.

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The Sylvia Grinnell River, or ᑰᖕᒥ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ ᑰᖓ in Inuktitut, is a vibrant parkland near Iqaluit, Nunavut, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Named for the daughter of an American explorer's benefactor, the river teems with Arctic char and provides a scenic backdrop for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the tundra landscape.

A brief summary to Sylvia Grinnell River ᑰᖕᒥ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ ᑰᖓ

  • Iqaluit, Nunavut, CA

Local tips

  • Bring insect repellent, especially during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be abundant.
  • Obtain a fishing license if you plan to fish for Arctic char in the river; check local regulations for catch limits.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Iqaluit can change quickly.
  • Check the Nunavut Parks website for information on park events and any closures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Iqaluit, the Sylvia Grinnell River is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head west along the main road, which passes the south end of the airport. Continue along the dirt road that leads towards the park entrance. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the walk. The park entrance and pavilion are easily visible from the road.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Iqaluit. A taxi from anywhere in town to Sylvia Grinnell River costs a flat fee of $9.50 per person. Caribou Tuktu Cabs and Pai-Pa Taxi are two local taxi services. The ride takes approximately 5-10 minutes from the city center.

  • Shuttle Bus

    Iqaluit Transit, a privately owned shuttle bus service, runs from Apex to the airport with multiple stops in between, including a stop that is near Sylvia Grinnell River. The service runs on weekdays from 7:30 AM to 8 PM and Saturdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. The fare is $8 per person, or $5 if you purchase a reloadable card.

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Discover more about Sylvia Grinnell River ᑰᖕᒥ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ ᑰᖓ

Sylvia Grinnell River, known locally as Iqaluit Kuunga or ᑰᖕᒥ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ ᑰᖓ, is a territorial park that serves as a natural and recreational focal point for the community of Iqaluit. Located just a short distance from the city center, the park offers an accessible escape into the Arctic landscape. The park's history is intertwined with both Inuit traditions and early exploration. The river's original Inuktitut name, Iqaluit, meaning 'place of many fish,' reflects its historical importance as a summer fishing ground for Arctic char. In 1861, American explorer Charles Francis Hall arrived in the area and named the river after Sylvia Grinnell, the daughter of Henry Grinnell, his benefactor. Hall also recognized that Frobisher Bay was a bay and not a route to Asia. The landscape was formed by glacial activity over 7,000 years ago, leaving behind low rocky hills and boulder fields. The Sylvia Grinnell River flows through the park, creating a vibrant ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can spot various bird species, Arctic foxes, hares, and even caribou. Today, the park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and cultural events. Trails offer views of the river, waterfalls, and tundra. The park also features facilities such as picnic areas, BBQ pits, and a pavilion that can be rented for events. Fishing for Arctic char is a common activity, with licenses and catch limits in place. The park also hosts community events, such as Parks Day in July. The park's master plan aims to expand the park, crossing the Sylvia Grinnell River and extending to Qaummaarviit Territorial Park, near Peterhead Inlet, to provide multi-day wilderness experiences.

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