It was another record setting year for the Northwest Territories Parks sector.

NWT Parks saw an increase of more than 20% in overnight visiting when compared to 2016. The total of 35 050 visits is also more than 30% higher than the five year average.

While every region in the territory saw park visits increase, a large portion of the jump came in the North Slave region.

Over half of all people visiting the parks were tourists – with 45% coming from other parts of Canada and roughly 12% coming from international locations.

Last year, the Government of the Northwest Territories had $3.7 million into NWT Parks.

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Wally Schumann, says the Government will continue to invest in the territory’s park’s division, hoping to grow the economy by bringing more money into the territory.

“Our economy gains strength as it grows more diverse, and our government is doing its part to promote, contribute, and invest in progress across all sectors of our economy. Our parks are among our territory’s most treasured assets. As we see more people enjoying our parks, and records being broken year-after-year, we know our investments are working. We will continue to invest in the future of our parks and the economic development and recreation opportunities they bring.“