Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road — Behchokǫ̀ to Whatì

Opened in 2022, the Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road (NWT Highway 3A) is one of the newest roads in the Northwest Territories and gives overland travellers access to country that was previously reachable only by winter road or floatplane. The route departs the junction near Behchokǫ̀ (Rae) off Highway 3 and pushes northwest through boreal Canadian Shield terrain — black spruce, Canadian Shield outcrops, countless lakes, and the quiet presence of a landscape that has been Tłı̨chǫ Dene territory for millennia. Whatì itself sits on the southern shore of Lac La Martre, a massive shallow lake of striking blue. Stop respectfully — this is an active community, not a tourist destination.

The road is all-season gravel and can be driven in a capable high-clearance 2WD in dry summer conditions, but soft shoulders, wildlife crossings, and the complete absence of services demand a prepared rig. Carry your own fuel — there is no gas station along the route, and Whatì’s fuel supply is limited and expensive. Best season is June through September. No permit required. Cell service disappears almost immediately after leaving Behchokǫ̀. A satellite communicator is the standard for this region. Dispersed camping along the corridor is possible but tread lightly — respect Tłı̨chǫ land.