Exploring Fall Colours on the Dempster Highway - Yukon & Northwest Territories

Epic Road Trip - Fall Colours on the Dempster!
This is an Overlanding adventure from Calgary (or wherever you will be at the time) to the Arctic Circle (and perhaps beyond). Fall colours on the tundra is a photographer's dream. This slow paced adventure is to experience this magical place where the orange, red and yellow colours dance right before your eyes in this vast place.

The entire event will take place over a 3 to 4-week period, and will be filled with adventure at every corner (camping, hikes, exploring small northern towns, etc.). The drive will start in Calgary on August 13, 2027 and end on or about September 3, 2027. We will be chasing the beautiful fall colours.

Should you wish to join me, you will need to be prepared for travel on the Dempster Highway (proper tires, extra gas, etc.). I will be using a roof top tent. Campers, trailers, etc., are welcome.

There are plenty of videos, blogs and articles on this highway that you can watch/read. An itinerary will also be shared in early 2026.

This road trip will be a slow pace/photography adventure on the Dempster Highway to catch the beautiful fall colours, and take in the scenery, and hopefully see the northern lights and the porcupine caribou that roam this area. Dress for the weather as well, and ensure your vehicle is in good working order.
Exact dates and a full itinerary will be shared in early January 2026.

You have the choice to meet the host at two locations to start the convoy:

• First Location (8am): Shell Big Hill Springs Road, Cochrane: 567 Hwy 22 and Hwy, Big Hill Springs Rd, Cochrane, AB T4C 1A4 (51.27208817937066, -114.46718048687853)
• Second Location (2pm/2:30pm): A&W Canada, 4007 Highway St, Valleyview, AB T0H 3N0

If you missed these two locations, the Event host will consider you a 'no show'

Hiking Pace: slow, beginner level, with lots of stops for photos.
What to bring:

• roof-top tent or ground tent + camping gear
• full spare tire (no dummies) + tire kit + tools (to change tires)
• extra gas (jerry cans must be carried OUTSIDE your vehicle: either on a roof rack or a hitch basket. There are Calgary outfitters that rent tents, roof racks, hitch baskets, etc.
• food and water
• rain/wind jacket and layers; dress for the weather
• good hiking boots/shoes
• hiking poles
• bug spray
• bear spray
• sunscreen/sun glasses
• camera
• most importantly, you are bringing a smile

Waiver: anyone joining this event must sign the waiver form before the start of the event (either at the meeting location or at the trailhead). You must also provide an emergency contact name and number of someone who is not currently joining you in this event.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge that organizers/hosts are not professional guides, and as such, by joining this event you assume full responsibility for your safety. You further attest to be prepared for the event (e.g. you have water, gear, food, etc.) and that you are physically capable to participate in this event.