Richard Ferguson said:

I am currently researching for a possible trip on the MacKenzie River in
the Northwest Territories of Canada.

It looks technically straightforward, with only two rapids in 925 miles,
neither difficult. I assume that we would find campsites near the river.

The logistics look easy also, fly to Yellowknife, rent a folding canoe
(Pakboat) from Expeditions Plus, take a bus to Fort Providence, paddle
for three to four weeks, restocking at villages as required, and then
fly back to Yellowknife from Inuvik.

I get the impression that we would see one or two other boats a day on
the river, including commercial traffic.

I would like to go to the Ar[c]tic Ocean, but not clear on how to get back
to Inuvik. Maybe arrange a floatplane to pick us up near the ocean and
fly us back to Inuvik. Sounds like something that I would want to
arrange face to face in Inuvik, sit down with a map and mark the pickup
point.

Anything else I should know? Any part of my plan that looks
questionable or unwise? Any tips?

The Mackenzie River is easy paddling, more like a long lake than a
real river. Expect to be windbound occasionally. The only hazard is
running into sand bars. The water is silty. I have heard that there
are nautical charts available, which might be useful if only to stay
in deep water. Commercial traffic is usually tugboats and barges.

If you have the time, visit the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage
Centre in Yellowknife. The visitor center outside of town has trip
reports on many NWT rivers. I expect there is one on the Mackenzie.

Douglas