March 2001

Government of the Northwest Territories
Canadian Heritage Rivers

South Nahanni River

The South Nahanni, designated in 1987, is undoubtedly the best known of northern rivers, and the most popular destination for river trippers heading north. The centerpiece of Nahanni National Park Reserve of Canada, its deep canyons, spectacular Virginia Falls, relatively easy downstream paddling, and the fact that only one portage is required, make the South Nahanni are very popular destination.

Visitation to the South Nahanni is high for a northern river. In 1999, a total of 576 traveled the river, in addition to over 200 day use visitors to Virginia Falls. Commercially guided trips accounted for 62% of the overnight users, although private trips accounted for 64% of the actual overnight departures.

The Deh Cho First Nations (DCFN) have begun negotiations with the Government of Canada to work toward an Interim Measures Agreement. DCFN has proposed that the entire South Nahanni River watershed be protected (also see articles on the NWT Protected Areas Strategy and the Greater Nahanni Region).

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