A few options to consider:

1) Gunnar Rock Tour - 26" purpose-built expedition bike. A well thought-out bike with custom options. Has a very cool way to mount rear disc caliper too.

2) Thorn frame w/Rohloff. Can't beat internal hubs for expedition durability (aka no more bent hangers, carrying deraileur spares etc), and Thorn make frames that work with this hub in the best way possible.

3) Long Haul Trucker if you want to save $$ and have competant tourer. Load it up with set of Surly or Tubus racks, some Arkel panniers and you're ready to rock northern Canada eh!

We've been carrying bearspray in handlebar bags.

Enjoy the northern lights!