Carcross Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Situated just an hour’s drive south of Whitehorse on the Klondike Highway, Carcross is a place where geological anomalies meet rich Indigenous history. Formerly known as Caribou Crossing, this village sits at the junction of Nares and Bennett Lakes, offering turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, framed by the imposing jagged peaks of the Yukon. It is a destination that feels both deeply ancient and vibrantly alive, home to the Carcross/Tagish First Nation whose artwork adorns the town.

While many rush through on their way to Skagway, Alaska, the wise traveler lingers. Whether you are here to walk on the sands of the ‘world’s smallest desert’ or to shred the world-class singletrack of Montana Mountain, Carcross offers an adventure that is uniquely Northern. The air is fresher here, the history is palpable in the wooden boardwalks, and the scenery is simply relentlessly beautiful.

A Meeting Place of Cultures and Geology

Carcross is not just a scenic stop; it is a cultural hub. The Carcross/Tagish First Nation has revitalized the town centre with the Carcross Commons, a gathering place featuring stunning totem poles and clan houses that tell the stories of the Wolf and Crow clans. Walking through the Commons, you aren’t just looking at art; you are witnessing the resilience and renaissance of a culture that has called this land home for millennia.

Geologically, the area is equally fascinating. The famous Carcross Desert is actually the bottom of an ancient glacial lake. Strong winds from Bennett Lake constantly replenish the sand, keeping the dunes active. It is a surreal experience to stand on sand dunes while looking at snow-capped mountains, a reminder of the Yukon’s dramatic post-glacial landscape.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Carcross Desert - Located just 2km north of the village, this 2.6 square km expanse of sand is a must-see. It is free to visit and offers a bizarre and beautiful landscape for hiking and photography.

Bennett Lake Beach - A surprise to many visitors, this long stretch of soft sand offers spectacular views of the Coast Mountains. While the water is glacial and chilly, it is refreshing on a hot July day. Free access from the village waterfront.

Matthew Watson General Store - Step back in time in the Yukon’s oldest operating store. Located right on the main street, it sells everything from camping gear to local history books and massive ice cream cones. Prices vary, but history is free.

Montana Mountain Trails - A network of over 40km of trails maintained by the local Singletrack to Success program. It is free to ride, though donations to the trail club are encouraged. The trailheads are accessible just minutes from the town centre.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Carcross is a straightforward and scenic 73km drive south from Whitehorse on the Klondike Highway. There is no public transit, so a rental car is essential. If you are arriving by cruise ship in Skagway, you can rent a car there or take the train/bus combination up the pass.

Accommodations in Carcross itself are limited to small cabins and B&Bs, so book well in advance, especially for July and August. Many visitors choose to stay in Whitehorse and day-trip down, but staying locally allows you to experience the midnight sun in solitude. Bring layers, as the wind off Bennett Lake can drop the temperature quickly, even on sunny days.

Carcross is a jewel of the Yukon that punches far above its weight in terms of scenery and culture. Whether you are biking down an alpine ridge or sipping coffee in the shadow of a totem pole, the spirit of this place will stay with you long after you leave the North.