The Northwestern wolf is a large North American form of the gray wolf found across Alaska, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of the northwestern United States. It is commonly described as one of the largest forms of Canis lupus, with a robust build, long legs, and a thick coat that can range from pale gray and white to brown, black, or mixtures of several colors. Its habitat includes boreal forests, mountains, tundra, and other northern landscapes, where it can travel great distances in search of prey.

Like other gray wolves, Northwestern wolves are highly social predators that generally live in family-based packs. Their diet is dominated by large hoofed mammals such as moose, caribou, elk, and deer, although they also take smaller animals when available. Their large body size, powerful build, endurance, and ability to navigate enormous territories make them especially well adapted to the demanding environments of western and northern North America.