Where is Tibbitt Contwoyto winter road?
Canada, north-america
600 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Ever dreamed of driving on water? The Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road in Northern Canada is your chance! This incredible ice road, born in 1982, stretches up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Imagine cruising over frozen lakes – they make up 85% of the route! The rest is on land, hopping between lakes.
Starting about 65 km (40 mi) east of Yellowknife, this frozen highway twists and turns, ending (depending on the year) near the Ekati or Jericho Diamond Mines. It's not just a scenic drive; it's a vital supply line for mines, accessible only a few months each year (February to early April).
The journey takes about 14-18 hours. Speed is seriously controlled to protect the ice, often down to a crawl of 25 km/h (16 mph), or even 10 km/h (6.2 mph) in some spots! Prepare for extreme conditions: high winds, storms, and limited visibility are common. Despite the challenges, this ice road is surprisingly safe, with constant monitoring and strict rules. So, if you're seeking a truly unique adventure, the Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road awaits, offering breathtaking, desolate beauty and a drive you'll never forget.
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 600 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
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