Population: 584

Fort Liard is located in Northwest Territories on the Deh Cho Route. It is on the south bank of the Liard River near its confluence with the Petitot River (known locally as Black River because of its color), about 50 miles/80 km south of Nahanni Butte. 

Visitor Information

Visitor Information Center/Acho Dene Native Crafts (closed Saturdays and Sundays), phone 867-770-4161. Visitor information also available from Hamlet of Fort Liard; phone 867-770-4104; www.fortliard.com.

This small, well-laid-out hamlet of both traditional log homes and new modern housing is located among tall poplar, spruce and birch trees on the south bank of the Liard River. Forestry and tourism, along with government and community services, support the local economy. Fort Liard residents are well known for the high quality of their birch-bark baskets and porcupine quill workmanship.

The North West Co. established a trading post near here at the confluence of the Liard and Petitot rivers called Riviere aux Liards in 1805. The post was abandoned after the massacre of more than a dozen residents by indigenous people. It was taken over by the Hudson’s Bay Co. in 1821 and re-established in 1822 when the 2 companies merged. The well-known geologist Charles Camsell was born at Fort Liard in 1876.

Lodging and Services

Lodging, groceries, ATM, hardware and sundries available at Liard Valley General Store and Motel (at the far end of main street). Gas, diesel, propane and fishing and hunting licenses available here at the Fort Liard Fuel Center (which includes Sisters Cafe, crafts and groceries). Post office, groceries and ATM at the Northern. ATM at the Liard Valley General Store. There is the modern Acho Dene School. There is no bank in Fort Liard.

Stop in at the native crafts store to shop for quill-decorated birchbark berry baskets and bowls (a Fort Liard specialty), beaded moccasins and mukluks, moose-hair tufting, miniature birchbark canoes and many other traditional native handicrafts.

Community-run Hay Lake Campground has 12 campsites (no fee), sani-dump, potable water, firewood, picnic tables, cooking shelter, toilets and a hiking trail around the lake. Bring insect repellent.