Please also note that all guests have to be dressed in full winter gear for the flight to the lodge. This is not simply a recommendation, but a requirement of the air charter companies we use. If you are not adequately dressed, you may not be allowed onto the flight.
Many of our guests believe that the clothes they wear to go skiing, or to visit Antarctica will be adequate for their stay at Blachford. In our experience this is simply not the case. Temperatures range from around minus 20 Celsius to minus 40 from December to March – plus wind chill. That’s just below zero F to 40 below. The apparent air temperature can fluctuate significantly, depending on whether it is calm or windy. Don’t let the temperature intimidate you though! Since it’s a dry cold, if you dress properly, you will be quite comfortable.
To deal with these temperatures, especially when watching the aurora so not moving vigorously, you need the following outer layers:
A heavy, insulated, windproof parka, preferably down filled, with a hood*
Insulated snow pants*
Thick mittens, large enough to fit over thinner gloves (any kind of gloves will NOT keep you warm enough)*
Boots with a removable felt lining*
Winter gear rentals are available through us. We ask that you pre-arrange your rentals. Hotel delivery and pick up within Yellowknife is also available. Please contact us for a quote for your group.
“I’m so grateful I hired your boots! I was convinced mine would be fine but now realise that wearing them, I could not have stood on the lake watching the aurora without my feet turning to ice.” Jean – Toronto, Canada
“I thought I understood cold, working in the meat industry and spending a fair bit of time standing around in a freezer. But nothing can prepare you for 40 below!” Doug – Australia
The above, together with a toque and neck warmer, can be rented from us for your stay, to save you buying clothes you may not use again or do not want to carry north. Clothing needs to be booked in advance so that we have your size and can meet you at the airbase ready with the right gear for you.
Other things to bring
Moisture wicking top/base layers
Warm & comfy top and bottom layers (ie. fleece jacket, pants, tights, etc.)
Comfy clothing for lounging at the lodge – we’re very casual!
Slippers (we also have Crocs at the lodge)
Thermos
Day pack
Sunglasses
Ski goggles
Binoculars
Headlamp or flashlight
Toque
Scarf, neck-warmer, or balaclava
A good book (every travelers must-have!)
Bathing suit
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Moisturizer
Hand/foot warmers
Travel stories for your travel-mates
Extra batteries for your camera
Lined mitts, with outer wind protection
Keep In Mind:
Dress in layers that you can remove and put on again quickly
All clothing should be loose enough to allow the full range of movement.
Do NOT wear cotton which absorbs moisture. Woollen, silk and/or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from the skin are best.
Your boots should be large enough to move your toes, and to accommodate two pairs of socks (and chemical warmers if you use them). We recommend a thin or medium weight (non-cotton) sock next to the skin with a thick wool / wool-mix sock on top. Ensure that you remove your boots’ liners every evening; they will have absorbed sweat during the day and need to dry overnight.
If you have any questions about what to bring, or wish to rent our clothing, please let us know in advance of your stay. We are very happy to advise. Your safety and comfort are our priority for a great stay at Blachford.