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Athabasca Sand Dunes Hiking Expedition

Sand, wind, and water collide in a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 Star Reviews | 10,000+ Happy Paddlers since 1964

Dates

July 27 - Aug 5, 2026

# of Days

10

Cost

$7425

Skill Level

Intermediate

Meeting Point

Stony Rapids SK

Distance

60 km Hike



In the far northwest corner of Saskatchewan, along the southern shore of Lake Athabasca, a hidden wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see. Here, the Athabasca Sand Dunes, among the most northerly active dunes in the world, rise from the boreal forest in ever-shifting ridges sculpted by wind, water, and time. Ancient rivers flow silently beneath the sand, and forests appear—or vanish—depending on the whims of the elements. On this expedition, you’ll hike across the dunes, explore the rare and fragile ecosystems that thrive here, and stand on ridges few people ever see. Guided by experts who bring the secrets of this living landscape to life, you’ll experience a northern wilderness that feels both remote and timeless.


Over ten days, you’ll follow winding trails along the dunes and the shores of Lake Athabasca, hiking to the most spectacular vantage points and exploring forests slowly uncovered or swallowed by the shifting sand. You’ll encounter plant species found nowhere else on Earth, witness ancient riverbeds emerging beneath your feet, and watch the sunset ignite the dunes in shades of red and gold. Along the way, your guides will share the First Nations legends that explain the mysteries of this land, and reveal the hidden patterns of a landscape that has been quietly moving and changing for millennia. Every step brings a new discovery, a new perspective, and a deeper connection to one of North America’s most remote and fragile wilderness areas.

Important..

Our courses and expeditions are incredibly popular, and spots fill up quickly. Secure your adventure today to ensure you don’t miss out! 
Explore the breathtaking Northern Saskatchewan waterways and create  unforgettable memories - book now before it's too late

Request A FREE Expedition Guide

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☑ Detailed trip description and itinerary

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Itinerary

Day 1

  • Charter flight from Stony Rapids SK to the Athabasca Sand Dunes.

  • Hike the shores of Lake Athabasca to the start of the dunes

  • Setup camp


Day 2 to 9

  • Our first couple days will be spent hiking the south shore of Lake Athabasca and setting up our first base camp.  From here will will spend a couple days exploring the exhumed forest.

  • We will then move our base camp to the William river.  From the William camp we will explore the William river valley.  From this site we will also hike to the largest dunes

  • We will then start our return hike to the shores of Lake Athabasca


Day 10

  • Pack up camp for the last time

  • Charter float plane from sand dunes back to Stony Rapids.

What Is Included

  • Guides - 7:1 ratio

  • Trail Meals - Excellent meals from Day 1 lunch to day 10 lunch

  • ‘Kitchen’ - tarp, fire box, cooking stoves, utensils, dishes, etc

  • First aid and repair kits, communications equipment (satellite phone)

  • Charter flight from Stony Rapids to the Athabasca Sand Dunes and return flight from the Athabasca Sand Dunes to Stony Rapids SK

  • Transportation of guides, group gear, etc to and from trip

What Is Not Included

  • Saskatchewan taxes 5% GST & 6% PST

  • Personal clothing and gear - a recommended clothing & equipment list will be provided

  • Travel between your home and the trip rendezvous - Stony Rapids Saskatchewan

  • Meals and accomodation in Stony Rapids at start and end of trip

  • Any additional expenses or costs incurred as a  result of delays to the trip caused by factors beyond our control - i.e.  wind, waves, unsafe hiking conditions, forest fire, pandemic, etc

  • Any costs associated with your emergency evacuation from the trip - please contact us at CRCO for more information

  • Gratuities - we recommend $20+ per day for a guide that went out of their way to make your experience extraordinary

How To Get To This Trip

The trip rendevue is Stony Rapids SK.  Stony rapids is accessible by schedule flights with Rise Air out of Saskatoon Saskatchewan.

Why Choose This Expedition?


Hike among northern dunes

Feel the wind on your face as you walk across one of the most northerly active dune systems in the world.


Witness living landscapes

See forests emerge and disappear as the sand shifts, a rare and mesmerizing natural process.


Explore ancient riverbeds
Follow hidden waterways that flow beneath the sand, remnants of glaciers and millennia of change.


Discover unique plants

Encounter rare species found nowhere else on Earth, a botanist’s dream come true.


Experience the interplay of sand and water

Wetlands, marshes, and flowing rivers appear unexpectedly, contrasting the desert-like dunes.


Sunsets that transform the landscape

Watch the sand glow red and gold as the sun dips behind the horizon, creating unforgettable views.


Sleep under a northern sky

Enjoy quiet nights far from artificial light, with only stars and the wind as company.


Pristine and remote wilderness

Travel through areas rarely visited by humans, offering privacy and a true sense of discovery.


Guides who elevate your adventure

Expert-led trips reveal hidden gems, teach you about the environment, and keep the journey smooth.


A rare northern wilderness experience

Few places offer this combination of sand, water, forest, and remoteness in North America.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancellation Policy


By booking with us, you’re supporting our guides, staff, local suppliers, and the northern communities that make these adventures possible. 

 

To hold your spot, a 25% deposit is required. This deposit is fully refundable (minus a 5% admin fee) if cancelled more than 60 days before your trip and fully refundable within 7 days of booking.

Once your trip is within 60 days and confirmed, all payments become non-refundable. At this point, we’re fully committed to running your expedition and incur significant costs.
We reserve the right to adjust itineraries if circumstances beyond our control arise (water levels, forest fires, plane delays, pandemics, etc.). If we must cancel a trip due to such circumstances, we may provide a partial refund at our discretion.

We reserve the right to cancel a trip for internal reasons (e.g. low signups, staffing shortage, logistic issues), in which case you will receive a full refund of what you paid us.


We strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance to protect against unexpected events or interruptions. If you need an insurance provider, there are many online providers that will provide travel insurance including trip cancellation insurance at a reasonable cost.

We appreciate your support — it keeps wilderness adventures authentic, safe, and unforgettable.

 

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Limited Spots Available

⚠️

Our trips fill up quickly

Reserve your spot today!

Have a question? Message Us or call 1-(306)-635-4420

Deposit

25%

Athabasca Sand Dunes Hiking Expedition

✅ Flexible Cancellation Policy
✅ Fully Refundable Within 7 days

$7425

CAD/Person

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