Great Slave Lake, Glacial lake in Northwest Territories, Canada.
Great Slave Lake is a glacial body of water in the Northwest Territories measuring 469 kilometers long and between 20 and 203 kilometers wide. Its depth reaches 614 meters in some areas, creating a mix of open water expanses with rocky bays and shallow shorelines.
The area was home to the Slavey people of the Dene family before fur traders arrived in the 18th century and established trading posts. Settlements grew along the shore as fishing and transport developed over time.
The Tłı̨chǫ people call this water Tideè and continue to fish along its shores using nets and boats during the open season. Indigenous families pass down stories about the lake that connect their ancestors to these waters over many generations.
The water freezes over in winter while summer months allow boat travel and fishing access from several points. Eight communities including Yellowknife provide entry, though weather conditions can shift quickly.
Its depth of 614 meters makes it the deepest lake in North America. The surface area places it among the ten largest lakes on Earth.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
