The results of recently conducted archaeological surveys in the lower Mackenzie Valley, N.W.T., demonstrate a greater archaeological potential than hitherto assumed. These data modify the widespread view according to which few archaeological sites along the immediate course of the river had actually escaped the ravages of the Mackenzie's spectacular spring floods. Archaeological sites were in fact found in a wide variety of locational contexts. Moreover, the quality of that record, when buried under overbank deposits, is superior to that usually found in the interior where soil development is negligible, and the soil chemistry not conducive to organic preservation. In short, the elements needed to write the prehistory of this zone are still accessible.