The Northwest Territories experienced its worst wildfire season on record between June and September, 2014. The communities of Yellowknife, N`Dilo, Detah, and Kakisa experienced prolonged exposure to wildlfire smoke. Most residents of Kakisa voluntarily evacuated on June 27 due to the proximity of fire. Many residents experienced a profound sense of isolation as a result of the prolonged period of time spent indoors to avoid smoke exposure. This was exacerbated by highway closures. Diminished livelihood and food security were also frequently described in relation to inability to engage in subsistence activities because of heavy smoke. Access to clean air spaces in community centres to safely engage in physical activity was highlighted as an important adaptive response by the community. This was especially true given that poor indoor air quality in homes resulting from opening windows was identified as an important issue.