Nahanni Range Road

Nahanni Range Road (NWT Highway 10) punches deep into the Mackenzie Mountains, following an old mining road that terminates near the legendary Virginia Falls on the South Nahanni River. This brutally rough track climbs through boreal forest and alpine terrain, crossing numerous creek beds and navigating loose shale switchbacks that have claimed many oil pans. The payoff is access to one of Canada’s most spectacular waterfalls and the starting point for world-class wilderness adventures in Nahanni National Park Reserve.

This route is strictly for experienced drivers with proper high-clearance 4WD vehicles and comprehensive recovery gear. Sharp rocks, steep grades, and creek crossings make this a technical challenge that demands slow, careful progress. Summer is the only viable season, and even then weather can close the road quickly. Fuel up in Fort Simpson and carry emergency supplies — you’re heading into one of Canada’s most remote corners where self-reliance isn’t optional, it’s survival.