Arctic Bay

Photo: Kelly Holben

Overview

The community of Arctic Bay, part of the Qikiqtaaluk region of Nunavut, is home to approximately 994 people (2021 census). Arctic Bay is part of the Eastern Standard time zone with Iqaluit and most of Quebec and Ontario. Travelers to the hamlet will fly 3 hours and 10 minutes from Ottawa followed by a 3-hour flight to their destination.

Highlights

Photo: Kelly Holben

Arctic Bay is also named ‘Ikpiarjuk’ which means ‘the pocket’ in Inuktitut, referring to the way the site is surrounded by protective hills on three sides. Every year in the spring a popular dog sledding race takes place between Arctic Bay and Igloolik that draws the best teams from across Nunavut. The Qimatuligvik Heritage Organization, which is run by the hamlet and open year-round, is an excellent venue to learn more about the local Inuit culture.

Photo: Kelly Holben

At nearby Uluksan Point, located at the mouth of Arctic Bay, slate is found that was ideal for making the ulu (woman’s knife). Arctic Bay is near the western boundary of Sirmilik National Park.

Weather and landscape

Arctic Bay is located at the 73rd parallel and has a tundra climate. From early May through early August the community experiences 24-hour sunlight; there is constant darkeness from mid-November to to late January.

Summer temperatures in Arctic Bay range from 0°C to 15°C. The snow begins to melt in May, but the sea ice doesn’t break up until the end of July. Winter temperatures hover around -35°C.