Top Fossil Dig Sites in Northwest Territories, Canada
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Anderson River Fossil Beds
Location: Near Inuvik, Northwest Territories, X0E 0T0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 68.6833°N, 135.6833°W Fossil Types Found: - Devonian fish (e.g., primitive lungfish, up to 1.8m long)
- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (limestone deposits) Public or Private Access: Private (research-only) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None (research expeditions only) Tool Use Policy: Professional tools (e.g., rock saws) used by researchers; not permitted for public Nearby Facilities: None (remote location; helicopter access required) Contact Information: Canadian Museum of Nature, Email: [email protected] Famous Discoveries: Large fossil of a primitive lungfish (2024 expedition) User Ratings and Reviews: Not available (research site) -
Norman Wells Canol Formation
Location: Near Norman Wells, Northwest Territories, X0E 0V0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 65.2833°N, 126.8333°W Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Canol Formation Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (June–August) Dig Options: None (restricted to research) Tool Use Policy: Not permitted for public Nearby Facilities: Norman Wells (lodging, fuel, small airport) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-587-2011 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Horn Plateau Fossil Site
Location: Near Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, X0E 0N0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 61.8667°N, 120.7333°W Fossil Types Found: - Devonian corals
- Brachiopods
- Plant fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Horn Plateau Formation Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Fort Simpson (lodging, dining, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-695-7250 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Great Slave Lake Outcrops
Location: Near Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, X1A 2L9, Canada GPS Coordinates: 62.4667°N, 114.3667°W Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible plant fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (June–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Yellowknife (visitor center, lodging, dining, airport) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-767-9000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Mackenzie Mountains Fossil Zone
Location: Near Tulita, Northwest Territories, X0E 0K0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 64.9000°N, 129.6667°W Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Devonian fish
- Corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Tulita (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-588-3000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Peel River Fossil Beds (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories, X0E 0J0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 67.2500°N, 134.8833°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible fish fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Hare Indian Formation (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Fort McPherson (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-952-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Franklin Mountains Outcrops (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Wrigley, Northwest Territories, X0E 1E0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 63.3833°N, 123.6667°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Corals
- Brachiopods
- Possible trilobites
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Hume Formation (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Wrigley (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-581-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Hare Indian River Site (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Fort Good Hope, Northwest Territories, X0E 0H0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 66.2667°N, 128.6333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible fish fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Hare Indian Formation (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Fort Good Hope (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-598-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Great Bear Lake Fossil Zone (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Deline, Northwest Territories, X0E 0G0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 65.1833°N, 123.4167°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Brachiopods
- Corals
- Possible trilobites
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Deline (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-589-3000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Liard River Fossil Beds (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Fort Liard, Northwest Territories, X0E 0L0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 60.2333°N, 123.4667°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Fort Liard (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-770-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Sahtu Region Fossil Outcrops (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Colville Lake, Northwest Territories, X0E 1L0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 67.0333°N, 126.0833°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Brachiopods
- Corals
- Possible trilobites
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Colville Lake (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-929-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Banks Island Fossil Site (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Sachs Harbour, Northwest Territories, X0E 0Z0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 71.9833°N, 125.0333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Possible plant fossils
- Possible vertebrate fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous (speculative) Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Sachs Harbour (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-690-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Inuvik Region Fossil Outcrops (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Inuvik, Northwest Territories, X0E 0T0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 68.3667°N, 133.7333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible fish fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Inuvik (lodging, dining, fuel, airport) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-777-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Tuktoyaktuk Coast Fossil Site (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, X0E 1C0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 69.4333°N, 133.0333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Possible plant fossils
- Possible vertebrate fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous (speculative) Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Tuktoyaktuk (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-977-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Nahanni River Fossil Beds (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Nahanni Butte, Northwest Territories, X0E 0R0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 61.0667°N, 123.3833°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Nahanni Butte (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-602-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Mackenzie Delta Fossil Zone (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Aklavik, Northwest Territories, X0E 0A0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 68.2333°N, 135.0167°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Possible plant fossils
- Possible vertebrate fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous (speculative) Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Aklavik (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-978-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Norman Range Fossil Site (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Norman Wells, Northwest Territories, X0E 0V0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 65.3167°N, 126.8667°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Norman Wells (lodging, fuel, small airport) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-587-2011 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Keele River Fossil Beds (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Tulita, Northwest Territories, X0E 0K0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 64.4167°N, 127.6667°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible fish fossils
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Tulita (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-588-3000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Root River Fossil Site (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Paulatuk, Northwest Territories, X0E 1N0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 69.3500°N, 124.0667°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Possible plant fossils
- Possible vertebrate fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous (speculative) Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Paulatuk (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-580-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
Horton River Fossil Beds (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Paulatuk, Northwest Territories, X0E 1N0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 69.9333°N, 126.8333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Possible plant fossils
- Possible vertebrate fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous (speculative) Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Paulatuk (basic lodging, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-580-2000 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available -
South Nahanni Fossil Zone (Speculative)
Note: This is a speculative entry based on regional geology; specific public access is unconfirmed.
Location: Near Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, X0E 0N0, Canada GPS Coordinates: 61.9333°N, 124.8333°W (approximate) Fossil Types Found: - Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Possible corals
Geological Period: Devonian Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown (speculative) Public or Private Access: Private (Crown land) Permit Requirements: Required from NWT Heritage Resources Office Entry Fee: Not applicable Best Season to Visit: Summer (July–August) Dig Options: None Tool Use Policy: Not permitted Nearby Facilities: Fort Simpson (lodging, dining, fuel) Contact Information: Government of Northwest Territories, Phone: +1-867-695-7250 Famous Discoveries: None documented User Ratings and Reviews: Not available
Comparison of Fossil Dig Sites in Northwest Territories
| Site Name | Location | Fossil Types | Dig Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anderson River Fossil Beds | Inuvik, NWT | Fish, Trilobites, Brachiopods | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Norman Wells Canol Formation | Norman Wells, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Horn Plateau Fossil Site | Fort Simpson, NWT | Corals, Brachiopods, Plants | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Great Slave Lake Outcrops | Yellowknife, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Plants | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Mackenzie Mountains Fossil Zone | Tulita, NWT | Trilobites, Fish, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Peel River Fossil Beds | Fort McPherson, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Fish | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Franklin Mountains Outcrops | Wrigley, NWT | Corals, Brachiopods, Trilobites | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Hare Indian River Site | Fort Good Hope, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Fish | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Great Bear Lake Fossil Zone | Deline, NWT | Brachiopods, Corals, Trilobites | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Liard River Fossil Beds | Fort Liard, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Sahtu Region Fossil Outcrops | Colville Lake, NWT | Brachiopods, Corals, Trilobites | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Banks Island Fossil Site | Sachs Harbour, NWT | Plants, Vertebrates | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Inuvik Region Fossil Outcrops | Inuvik, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Fish | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Tuktoyaktuk Coast Fossil Site | Tuktoyaktuk, NWT | Plants, Vertebrates | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Nahanni River Fossil Beds | Nahanni Butte, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Mackenzie Delta Fossil Zone | Aklavik, NWT | Plants, Vertebrates | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Norman Range Fossil Site | Norman Wells, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Keele River Fossil Beds | Tulita, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Fish | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Root River Fossil Site | Paulatuk, NWT | Plants, Vertebrates | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| Horton River Fossil Beds | Paulatuk, NWT | Plants, Vertebrates | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
| South Nahanni Fossil Zone | Fort Simpson, NWT | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Permit-only (Research) | Not rated |
Fossil Dig Tourism in Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories (NWT) is a hidden gem for those seeking the best fossil dig sites in Northwest Territories, offering a rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure into Earth’s ancient past. With geological formations like the Canol and Horn Plateau dating back to the Devonian period (400 million years ago), the NWT is rich in common fossils in Northwest Territories, such as trilobites, brachiopods, corals, and rare Devonian fish. Sites like the Anderson River Fossil Beds, where a primitive lungfish was uncovered in 2024, highlight the region’s paleontological potential. However, unlike Alberta’s public dinosaur excavation areas, fossil hunting in NWT is primarily research-focused, with most sites on Crown land requiring permits from the NWT Heritage Resources Office. This makes family fossil hunting trips in NWT challenging but rewarding for dedicated enthusiasts willing to navigate remote locations and strict regulations.
The NWT’s paleontology field adventures in Northwest Territories are best suited for summer visits (June–August), when the Arctic climate is more hospitable. Key locations like Norman Wells and Yellowknife offer basic facilities, with Yellowknife providing the most robust infrastructure, including lodging, dining, and a visitor center. While self-guided fossil digs in NWT are not permitted, contacting the Canadian Museum of Nature or the Government of Northwest Territories can connect adventurers with research expeditions. These opportunities allow participants to uncover fossils of marine life in NWT, such as trilobites and corals, in pristine wilderness settings. For families or beginners, the lack of low-cost paleontology tours in NWT means planning ahead is crucial, and combining a trip with Alberta’s dinosaur dig vacations can provide a more accessible experience.
The NWT’s rockhounding destinations in Northwest Territories offer a raw, authentic glimpse into Earth’s Devonian seas, though public access is limited compared to Jurassic fossil parks in Canada. Visitors must respect Indigenous lands and environmental protections, as many sites are on traditional territories. Whether you’re exploring prehistoric site tours in NWT or seeking where to find fossils in NWT, the region’s geological treasures promise a unique journey. From the Mackenzie Mountains to Great Slave Lake, the NWT’s fossil sites spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong passion for paleontology, making it a must-visit for those eager to connect with Earth’s ancient history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fossil Digging in Canada
Can anyone dig for fossils in national parks in Northwest Territories?
No, fossil digging in national parks like Nahanni or Wood Buffalo is prohibited without a permit, typically granted only to researchers. Surface collection may be allowed on Crown land with permission from the NWT Heritage Resources Office.
What gear do I need for a fossil dig in Northwest Territories?
For research-approved digs, bring sturdy boots, gloves, safety goggles, a small hammer, and chisel (if permitted). GPS devices, notebooks, and cameras are useful for documentation. Pack camping gear and weatherproof clothing for remote areas.
Are there guided fossil tours in Northwest Territories?
Guided fossil tours are rare in the NWT due to limited public access. Contact the Canadian Museum of Nature or local universities for research expedition opportunities, which may allow limited public participation.
Can I keep fossils I find in Northwest Territories?
Fossils on Crown land belong to the territory. You may act as a custodian for surface-collected fossils but cannot sell or remove them from the NWT without a Disposition Certificate. Report significant finds to authorities.
What are the best fossil types to look for in Northwest Territories?
Devonian marine fossils like trilobites, brachiopods, corals, and fish are common in the NWT. Plant fossils from the Carboniferous or Cretaceous periods are also possible in some areas.
Is fossil hunting safe in Northwest Territories?
Fossil hunting in the NWT can be challenging due to remote locations, harsh weather, and wildlife. Travel with a guide, inform others of your plans, and carry emergency supplies.
How do I get a permit for fossil digging in Northwest Territories?
Contact the NWT Heritage Resources Office via the Government of Northwest Territories website (www.gov.nt.ca) or call +1-867-767-9000 to apply for a permit, typically reserved for professional paleontologists.
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