Hay River, Transportation hub in Northwest Territories, Canada
Hay River is a town located on the southern shore of Great Slave Lake where its namesake river meets the lake in Northwest Territories. The settlement sits at a natural crossing point that has made it a central hub for the surrounding region.
The Hudson's Bay Company built the first structures here in 1868, establishing the area's early foundations. Permanent settlement took hold between 1892 and 1893 under Chief Chiatlo's leadership.
The community maintains strong connections to Indigenous traditions through local events while serving as a commercial center for surrounding First Nations populations.
The Mackenzie Highway offers year-round road access, and the river and lake remain important for local transport and supplies. Most services and shops cluster near the water, making navigation straightforward for visitors.
The entire community relocated upstream from Vale Island in 1964 after severe flooding devastated the original location. This dramatic move remains central to how residents understand their town's story.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
