Hay River City Guide

Fresh Great Slave Lake fish is a local specialty. Food choices are mainly Canadian with some Asian options. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist but are limited. Most places close by late evening.

Nightlife is minimal, with a few local pubs and lounges available.

Few dedicated coffee shops. Coffee is mostly available at restaurants and convenience stores.

Follow Canadian norms: 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% in taxis, and 15-20% for personal services.

SIM cards are available at authorized Canadian carrier dealers like Bell and Telus. ID is needed for activation. eSIMs are offered but may need online setup.

Town is generally clean with regular waste services.

24/7 services are rare. Some stores have extended hours but no 24/7 pharmacies or clinics.

Grocery stores have basic international products. The Northern Store and Super A Foods are the main options. Hours are usually 9 AM to 6 PM, with limited Sunday or holiday hours.

Most businesses accept cards, so cash is rarely needed for daily use.

ATMs are found at local banks and some big stores. Fees for out-of-network withdrawals are common, around CAD $2-3.

Three main schools serve the town, all with English instruction. There are no international schools. Admissions follow the Northwest Territories calendar.

Almost no digital nomads live here. Community is very small.

Good parks and natural areas by the river and lake.

Running trails along the river and around town are common and safe.

Community Centre offers gym and fitness classes. Curling club available.

Tennis courts are available at the community centre.

No padel courts available.

Limited yoga classes through community programs or private instructors.

Limited martial arts options; occasional community classes.

Cross-country skiing is popular with groomed winter trails. No downhill skiing.

Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular on the lake with local rentals.

No surfing; it's a lake without suitable waves.

Cold lake water limits diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Hay River Regional Health Centre has English-speaking staff and provides public healthcare. Pharmacies are often in the health centre or larger grocery stores. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water is treated and safe to drink in Hay River.

There are several playgrounds and family attractions like the waterpark and museum. Baby supplies are available locally, but kid-friendly cafés are limited.

Generally accepting community but small with no specific LGBTQ+ venues.

Pet-friendly with some accommodations and vets in town.