Carcross, located in the Yukon territory of Canada, is a charming and unique destination that offers a variety of experiences for visitors.
The town was originally called Caribou Crossing, as woodland Caribou migrate through the area. The species is protected here and you can still spot them when they migrate in the spring. Carcross is also home to the Carcross/Tagish First Nations (CTFN) and has been for over 10,000 years. I acknowledge and respect the Carcross/Tagish First Nation, and their land that this article mentions.
There is a rich history here that is everywhere around you in Carcross. Whether you’re visiting the Carcross Common shops or hiking Montana Mountain, there’s always something to marvel at and learn. There are even still remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush to immerse yourself in and activities to enjoy it. So for a small town, there’s a lot to do!
It’s possible to visit Carcross year-round, and I’ve written articles about visiting in the Spring and Winter. Plus some great reasons to travel to the Yukon in general.
Here are compelling reasons to consider visiting Carcross:
1. Impressive scenic beauty
Carcross is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests. The picturesque setting makes it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. It has such a wide range of scenery, and it all looks different in each season. Summer and winter are unrecognisable from each other! So there are four reasons to visit just for these changes, right?!
The natural beauty here can be seen right from your car as you travel through. But if you stop to explore, you won’t regret it. There’s a medley of White Spruce, Pine, Willows, and Trembling Aspen hugging the road and extending into the mountains. There’s a huge array of plants and flowers to keep a look out for, including the Yukon’s floral emblem Fireweed. Visit the Carcross Information Centre to grab some leaflets about the local flora and fauna to identify as you explore.
2. Historic Bennett Lake
This beautiful lake offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The tranquil waters and surrounding mountains create a serene and scenic environment. In summer the water is turquoise, and it also boasts a sandy beach, a surprise for the Yukon! The lake is glacier-fed so it’s cold a lot of the year. But if you visit in the height of summer it’s a refreshing dip. The locals are used to the colder waters.
Bennett Lake also has a lot of history with the Klondike Gold Rush. Gold-seekers would cross the lake on their way to Dawson City. People would build their boats here right on the shore before continuing their journey. If they arrived here too late in the year, they would have to wait for the lake to thaw first. Thousands of boats were built and made the crossing here, and Carcross became a city of tents.
3. Carcross Desert
Known as the “world’s smallest desert”, the Carcross Desert is a unique natural phenomenon. It’s a sandy area with dunes and rare plant species, providing an interesting contrast to the surrounding wilderness. Hike to the top of the largest dune and you’re rewarded with a fantastic view – sand, snow, mountains, water, and trees all at once! In late autumn the colours pop, and there’s snow already on the mountains.
When the glaciers in southern Yukon melted from the last ice age, the water flowed here and formed a lake. Eventually, the lake dried up, leaving this spectacular view. The sand is a result of the silt that formed on the bottom of the lake. If it wasn’t for the wind blowing from Bennett Lake, this desert wouldn’t be visible to enjoy.
Take your shoes off and take a break here.
4. Carcross Commons
The vibrant community hub features colourful houses, local shops, galleries, and eateries. It’s a great place to stroll, shop for local crafts, and interact with residents.
The Commons is a beautifully designed street lined with small buildings. The shops are covered in vibrant Indigenous art with totem poles rising before you. Each shop offers a range of local crafts, from syrups to the beloved “Witchy Wagon”. Shop local to support small businesses and you’ll be rewarded with a heartfelt gift and lasting memories.
After shopping, stop for a coffee at the Caribou Crossing Coffee, and a spot of lunch at the Bistro.
Carcross Commons is open from May 1st to September 29th seasonally.
5. Carcross scenic railway
This is a historic railway town, and visitors can take a scenic train ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route railroad. The route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
If you don’t feel like making the 33-mile hike through the Chilkoot Trail, there are other options. Consider taking the White Pass and Yukon Route train journey instead. The scenic train journey transports you through time along 67.5 miles between Carcross and Skagway. Travel in style with some fantastic photo opportunities along the way! Remember to bring your passport as you will be crossing over into the United States.
The White Pass and Yukon Route is also open seasonally and runs from May 30th to September 16th.
6. Rich indigenous heritage
Here you can learn about the traditions and culture of the Carcross/Tagish First Nations people through art, storytelling, and cultural events. Everywhere you look there is something to learn, and it is truly a pleasure to have such accessible knowledge. From walking through Carcross Commons to visiting the Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre.
The Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre is the hub of history, art, and culture of the Tagish and Tinglit peoples. The Centre welcomes everyone and the staff are only too happy to answer any questions you have. It is also an events venue, holding weddings, potlatches, and corporate events. It truly is the heart of Carcross and offers a wide range of activities. Even just spending an hour wandering through its halls of art and exhibits is worth it! Don’t forget to check out the cedar canoe on display too.
7. Abundance of outdoor activities
In addition to mountain biking, Carcross offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. Carcross is becoming known as the mountain biking destination. The area offers a network of well-maintained trails that cater to both beginners and experienced riders.
This area is a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures in the surrounding area. This includes backcountry exploring, wilderness camping, and exploring the Southern Lakes region.
One particularly beautiful place for these activities is Montana Mountain, just across the bridge in Carcross. There are famous biking trails there, but if you prefer a slower pace, go by foot instead. During the summer Icycle Sports shop is open to rent bikes and snacks for the day ahead.
8. Spirit Lake and Emerald Lake
Located just 12km north of Carcross on the Klondike Highway, these beautiful lakes offer opportunities for kayaking and paddle boarding. They’re also great photo opportunities!
Spirit Lake and Emerald Lake are just opposite each other, and it becomes immediately clear why they’re named as such. The crater-like holes in Spirit Lake are easily visible, made from glaciers during the ice age. Its colouring is the same as Emerald Lake nearby, and emerald is the perfect description for its turquoise waters. When the sun hits the water just right, it sparkles, and it’s impossible to drive by without stopping. It’s possible to kayak and paddle board here, although a lot of people are content to just admire the view.
The distinctive colours are from the white deposits of marl, a mixture of clay and calcium carbonate. Emerald Lake is easier to see from the highway and makes a spectacular photo, with Surprise Mountain sitting just behind.
9. Friendly community
Carcross is known for its welcoming and friendly residents, providing a warm and authentic Yukon experience.
Whether you spend a day in town exploring, shopping, or eating, everyone will make you feel at home. If you need help with anything, people are always on hand to help. And if you need advice with any of the activities, like hiking, they know the trails to take. There is no better way to get to know a place than by chatting and getting a local’s insight.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural exploration, or simply immersing in a small-town atmosphere, Carcross is a gem. This area offers a range of experiences that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Yukon.
There’s always more information out there too. For example, my tips on how to sleep during the summer in the Yukon, and stories about Winter in the Yukon.
For most travellers, it’s also a through-way to other destinations like Skagway or Whitehorse. This is a revitalising stop-off to relax and rejuvenate along your travels. Even the drive is beautiful in whatever season you travel, so it’s worth the trip.
