Sachs Harbour
Latitude 71°59’N Longitude 125°14’W
Population: 135 (2011)
Average Temperature: January: -29.3 July: 6.8
Average Precipitation: January: Snowfall 5.2 cm July: Rainfall: 13.9 mm
Place where one crosses over
Named after the ship Mary Sachs, of the Canadian arctic expedition of 1913, the tiny community formed around an RCMP post, established in 1953. Banks Island had been inhabited by Pre-Dorset peoples over 3,500 years ago and Thule Inuit 500 years ago, but remained deserted for several centuries, until modern times.
Today, with a population of about 150, the traditional lifestyle of hunting, trapping and fishing is still very much alive and Sachs Harbour is known as the "Musk ox Capital of Canada". Guided tours to view wildlife, birds and flowers are available. Outfitting for big-game hunts for musk ox and polar bears can be arranged with the local Hunters and Trappers Association. Local crafts include the spinning and weaving of qiviut, the silk-like wool of the musk ox into fine scarves and sweaters.
Community Facts
Sachs Harbour is the most northerly and the smallest community in the Beaufort-Delta region.
Banks Island, where Sachs Harbour is located, is believed to be the first northern region inhabited by humans. The island has Archaeological remains dating back 3400 years. Banks Island has historically been a traditional hunting and whaling location for the Thule people.
The local school year begins in August and ends in May to accommodate the traditional on-the-land activities of the community.
Sachs Harbour is the nearest community to, and access point into, Aulavik National Park, located at the northern tip of Banks Island and home to the Thomsen River.
Community Access: Sachs Harbour is serviced by scheduled flights from Inuvik throughout the year.
For information, contact:
Hamlet of Sachs Harbour
Ph: 867.690.4351 • Fax 867.690.4802
Box 90, Sachs Harbour, NT, X0E 0Z0
