Plizio Visual Lab
Yellowknife
Yellowknife, the capital city of the Northwest Territories, is a unique urban center perched on the Precambrian Shield at the edge of the Great Slave Lake. Established in 1934 following the discovery of gold in the region, the city served as a focal point for prospectors and miners for decades, with the Giant and Con mines defining its early industrial landscape. The city’s name honors the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, the traditional land users of the area long before European arrival. In 1967, it became the territorial capital, shifting its focus toward administration and government services. The late 20th century brought a new era of prosperity with the discovery of diamonds, leading to the opening of major mines like Diavik, which solidified Yellowknife's status as a global diamond hub. Beyond its industrial roots, the city is world-renowned for aurora borealis tourism, attracting visitors from across the globe to witness the Northern Lights in one of the most reliable viewing locations on Earth. The community is characterized by a blend of pioneering spirit and modern innovation, where colorful houseboats in the bay sit alongside state-of-the-art research facilities and a thriving arts scene that celebrates northern indigenous heritage and the rugged beauty of the subarctic wilderness.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: Cinnamon Island Scenic Viewpoint · Bristol Monument · Back Bay Scenic Viewpoint
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -29 | -26 | -18 | -6 | 6 | 15 | 18 | 15 | 7 | -4 | -20 | -27 |
| Rain mm | 21 | 14 | 20 | 19 | 44 | 55 | 62 | 56 | 47 | 29 | 25 | 19 |
📋 Practical info
History & landmarks
Modern/Mining Era
1934
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1934 during the gold mining boom
- Became territorial capital in 1967
- Located on the shore of Great Slave Lake
- Known as the Diamond Capital of North America
- Home to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
- Famous for world-class aurora borealis viewing
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Yellowknife (13)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Yellowknife known as the Aurora Capital of the World?
What is Old Town?
How cold does it get in winter?
Can you drive on the ice roads?
What is the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre?
Yellowknife: where is it located?
Yellowknife: what is there to see?
Yellowknife: when is the best time to visit?
Yellowknife: why is it worth visiting?



















