Home to Canada’s Highest Peak and Untamed Adventure
Home to Canada’s Highest Peak and Untamed Adventure
Kluane National Park is a vast wilderness of icefields, alpine meadows, and towering peaks in the Yukon Territory. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it shelters Mount Logan, Canada’s tallest mountain, and offers adventure through glacier treks, river rafting, mountain biking, and remote hiking routes. Wildlife thrives here—grizzlies, Dall sheep, and bald eagles roam freely. Whether you’re paddling Kluane Lake, exploring the Cottonwood Trail, or climbing the King’s Throne, this park immerses visitors in raw northern beauty.
Seasons
Spring (Apr–Jun): Blooming wildflowers, active wildlife, fewer crowds, trail access improving.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season with long days, hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing. Ideal for outdoor adventurers.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Brilliant autumn colors, crisp air, fewer visitors, and Northern Lights viewing.
Winter (Dec–Mar): Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and serene landscapes under a blanket of snow.
Top 3 Facts about Kluane National Park
The park is home to over 2,000 glaciers, some of which are a kilometer thick, and features the world’s largest non-polar icefields, a legacy of the last Ice Age. The Icefield Ranges include peaks soaring to 5,000 meters in height.
Hosts the world’s largest non-polar icefield—over 21,980 sq km of glaciers.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 for its natural significance.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check trail and road conditions, especially in shoulder seasons. Plan backcountry permits in advance.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers, waterproof gear, hiking boots, insect repellent, and bear spray. Weather changes quickly.
Respect Wildlife
Be bear aware: carry bear spray, travel in groups, store food properly, and make noise on trails.
Stay Informed
Watch for changing weather and terrain. Notify others of your route. Consider hiring a guide for backcountry travel.
- Area (km²)
- 13677.78
- Annual visitors
- 49 840
- Established year
- 1972
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Kluane National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Kluane National Park is Haines Junction, located in the Yukon, Canada. It is about 160 kilometers west of Whitehorse on the Alaska Highway. Haines Junction serves as the administrative centre and has amenities such as restaurants, motels, and a visitor reception centre.
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The St. Elias Lake trail is a great option for kids, as it is a short and easy hike with only 120 meters of elevation gain over 8 kilometers. It features interpretive signage and a backcountry campground, making it ideal for beginner backcountry camping and family outings.
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Yes, you must keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect your safety, the dog’s safety, and to prevent harassment of wildlife and other visitors. Unrestrained pets can provoke animal attacks and disturb the natural environment. Keeping your dog leashed is mandatory and enforced by park regulations.
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There is parking available for campers, trailers, motorhomes, and camper vans at Kathleen Lake campground. The sites can accommodate vehicles up to 30 feet, though some sites may fit larger units. However, there are no pull-through sites.
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Top activities include hiking and camping at places like Kathleen Lake, rafting the Alsek River, and flightseeing over Mount Logan and the non-polar ice fields. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with opportunities to see grizzly bears, black bears, moose, Dall sheep, and various bird species. Additionally, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, dog sledding, and interpreting the park’s Gold Rush history.