Respectful Travel

Respectful Travel I Rules and Regulations  I Leave No Trace

When travelling in Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve be respectful of the people, the land and the waters. Indigenous people can and may be exercising their traditional rights (e.g., harvesting wildlife and other on the land activities). These rights must be respected. Traditional harvesting is an integral part of this ecosystem.

Areas with cultural significance within Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve may have specific management requirements and special protection status. This means that certain areas of the park may be closed due to cultural significance or activities. Please check for area closures prior to travel.

You are welcome to engage with Indigenous people and cultural activities during planned visitor programs. You can also experience the land with a local Indigenous guide whose family has lived in this landscape for generations. In doing so, you can immerse yourself in an authentic cultural experience and contribute to the local economy. Please be respectful that, outside of planned activities, Indigenous people on the land may not want visitors interacting with them or taking photos. If an Indigenous person shares a story or passes on their knowledge to you, credit needs to be given to the Indigenous person or people from which they came from.

Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation, the Northwest Territories Métis Nation, Deninu Kųę́ First Nation, and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation all have important roles in the management of Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve. You will find people from these nations, and others, travelling, harvesting and working in the park.

For Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation, Thaidene Nëné is the heart of their homeland. They run the Ni Hat’ni Dene Rangers, a guardian program. The Ni Hat’ni Dene are stewards of cultural sites and the environment. They also serve as hosts and provide interpretive tours for visitors. You may see the rangers and their boats in the National Park Reserve and Territorial Protected Area.

If you are planning to visit the community of Łutsël K’é during your trip, make the most of your visit (and minimize the impact of tourism) by contacting the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation before your departure at tdndepartment@gmail.com. Accommodation in the community is limited and must be planned in advance.

Respectful Travel I Rules and Regulations  I Leave No Trace