First of all, never plan on taking this trip without the expertise of experienced canoeists. Guides can be hired from Nahanni Wilderness Adventures which is Alberta based, or from Canoe North, an Ontario based company.
The first thing to do is to organize meetings to discuss the itinerary, though I may be able to give some basic information in this article.
The second step is packing. This will not be an easy chore. You need to take as little as possible but don't want to be caught on the river without a much-needed item. The river is a remote wilderness area and there is nowhere to purchase forgotten items. Be certain to include a waterproof flashlight and a good First Aid Kit.
Depending on where you live, you need to make arrangements to fly into Yellowknife where the entire group can meet before continuing on to Fort Simpson which is located on the Mackenzie River. The population of this small hamlet is about 1200.
If you have hired guides through Nahanni Wilderness Adventures or Canoe North, they will most likely meet you here. From here, you will go to the guide's compound, which consists of trailers that belong to different outfitting companies. You will then transfer your gear and supplies into drybags and barrels. City clothes and luggage will be left behind. You will pick it up when you return from the river.
For the next ten days or so, drybags and barrels will become an important part of your life. Your personal belongings will be stuffed into the large, yellow, heavy plastic bags. The tops are then rolled down and fastened with clips. If you ensure the drybags are properly closed, they will protect your gear through rain and canoe dumps. The drybag is fitted with a harness so you can carry it on your back. The barrels are large and made of plastic with screw or snap-on lids. These are used for food and are more bear proof than the drybags. They are also more difficult to carry.
Now it is time to board a small plane for the 11/2 hour trip to Rabbitkettle. On this leg of the trip, you will get a great view of the majestic Mackenzie Mountains.
Soon, you will be circling Rabbitkettle Lake. From here, the gear and canoes must be portaged to the Nahanni River. Its fast flowing current will tie your stomach in knots if you're an inexperienced canoeist. If you have to make more than one trip for supplies, there is a high, triangular platform here that is mounted on sturdy poles. This is the cache to store your gear well out of the reach of bears and other animals.
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