Nàı̨lı̨ı̨ (Whatì Falls)

An overhead drone photography image of Whatì Falls. Surrounded by dense forest, the Lac La Martre river narrows upstream, with small rapids visible before being split by a small island to form two 15-metre drops off a rocky cliff. The white water churns against the rocky floor, with small streams of water pouring out of the cliff's walls.

A long time ago great respect was paid to this area. On the shore, near the falls, there is a special tree where respect is paid to the river by giving a gift. Only then can you continue around the falls on the portage.

Once you pay respect, you can look at the falls. If you see a rainbow (k'àlemı̨̀ı̨̀) it can predict the future for you.

If you see a double rainbow, this means very good fortune. If there is a dark end of the rainbow to the south that means that bad news will come from the south. If it is dark at the other end of the rainbow, that means bad news will come from the north.

Francis Zoe

Cave under the falls. Footprints found under the waterfall, Dora's godfather traveled under the falls. No one knew you could for a long time and everyone waited on one side of the river, but at the end of the day the person was waiting on the other side.

Mike Nitsiza

I used to climb down to the base of the falls with a rope that used to be attached to the rock wall.

No one is supposed to take any rocks or items from around the falls and the island near the falls. I took wood from the area when I was young to smoke caribou meat. When I set up the fire and walked away, I heard a large boom, and when I returned the whole canvas around the fire was burned. I took the wood back to the falls area. And afraid of what I had done. I was told never to take anything without the permission of the Elders.

Laiza Jeremickca

Before their was a boat motors, the Chief would tow ten boats to Behchokǫ̀.

Long time ago we were not allowed to go to Nàı̨lı̨ı̨, sacred site that only 1-2 people would be allowed to visit.

Francis Simpson

We consider that to be a good river. If we go towards that river and make an offering, it gives us a sign with the rainbow. That is what they say. If it doesn’t show the rainbow, it is a bad sign, that is what the Elders say.

That is why my father said, if there is nothing wrong with us, no sickness, we should not ever disturb the waterfalls. If we have a problem we go and see it and make an offering to it.

Only go there and pay respect for help, otherwise don’t bother going there.

Jimmy Nitsiza