Kluane National Park Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Kluane National Park with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kluane National Park

Kluane National Park is a vast and rugged wilderness area located in the Yukon Territory of Canada. The park spans over 22,000 square kilometers and boasts some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in North America. From towering peaks and glaciers to pristine lakes and rivers, Kluane National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of nature.

List of Places to Visit in Kluane National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Da Kų Cultural Centre: a museum and cultural center that features exhibits on First Nations people of the region
  • S.S. Klondike National Historic Site: a restored steamboat that offers visitors a glimpse into the history of transportation in the region

Natural Attractions of Kluane National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Logan: the highest peak in Canada and second-highest peak in North America, offering stunning views from its many hiking trails
  • Kluane Lake: a massive lake with crystal-clear water and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Popular activities include boating, fishing, and camping.
  • Slim’s River West Trail: a scenic hiking trail that takes visitors through lush forests and stunning mountain ranges
  • Sheep Mountain: a popular stop on the Alaska Highway that offers views of the stunning mountain landscape

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kluane National Park

Kluane National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with over 1,000 kilometers of footpaths and trails to explore. Some popular hiking trails include:

  • King’s Throne Trail: a challenging trek that rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Kathleen Lake
  • Cottonwood Trail: a family-friendly hike that takes visitors through a beautiful forest in the heart of Kluane National Park
  • Dezadeash Lake Trail: a scenic hike along the shores of Dezadeash Lake, offering views of mountain ranges and amazing fall colors

For biking enthusiasts, the park offers several trails, including:

  • Slim’s River East Trail: a stunning trail that takes visitors along the Slim’s River and offers views of glaciers and granite spires
  • Auriol Trail: a family-friendly trail that winds through a forest and offers beautiful scenery

Best Things to Do in Kluane National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Flightseeing: take a scenic flight over the park for a bird’s-eye view of its breathtaking landscapes
  • Wildlife watching: keep an eye out for grizzly bears, Dall sheep, elk, and other wildlife
  • Glacier walks: explore the park’s glaciers on guided walks
  • Fishing: catch trout, salmon, and other fish in one of the park’s many rivers and lakes

Week-Long Itinerary for Kluane National Park

Day 1-2: Hike the King’s Throne Trail and explore Kathleen Lake Day 3-4: Take a guided glacier walk and go fishing on the Alsek River Day 5-6: Explore the park’s backcountry on a multi-day hiking or camping trip Day 7: Relax at Dezadeash Lake and take in the stunning scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Kluane National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bannock: a traditional First Nations bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or herbs
  • Arctic char: a type of salmon found in many rivers and lakes in the region
  • Caribou stew: a hearty stew featuring tender meat, vegetables, and spices

Local Beverages

  • Spruce beer: a carbonated, non-alcoholic drink made from spruce tips
  • Fireweed tea: a caffeine-free tea made from the leaves and flowers of the fireweed plant

Where to Stay in Kluane National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kathleen Lake Lodge: a historic lodge located on the shores of Kathleen Lake
  • Kluane RV Kampground: a family-friendly campground with stunning views of the surrounding mountains
  • The Raven Hotel: a cozy hotel located in the heart of Haines Junction

What to Buy in Kluane National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade First Nations crafts, such as moccasins, dreamcatchers, and beaded jewelry
  • Locally made jams, jellies, and honey
  • Artwork featuring the stunning landscapes of Kluane National Park

Local Culture and Customs of Kluane National Park

Respect for the First Nations culture is an important aspect of visiting Kluane National Park. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the culture and history of the Kluane region and to show respect for traditional values and practices.

Best Time to Visit Kluane National Park

The best time to visit Kluane National Park is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the days are long. That being said, spring and fall can also be great times to visit, with fewer crowds and stunning fall colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kluane National Park

Do:

  • Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • Take out all trash and leave no trace
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions

Don’t:

  • Feed or approach wildlife
  • Damage or remove any natural or cultural resources
  • Enter closed areas or veer off designated trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Kluane National Park

  • Be aware of potential wildlife encounters
  • Check weather conditions before heading out on any hikes or outdoor activities
  • Practice bear safety: carry bear spray, hike in groups, and make noise to alert bears of your presence

Health in Kluane National Park

  • Bring any necessary medications and supplies
  • Be aware of health risks associated with drinking untreated water from lakes and rivers

Getting to Kluane National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kluane National Park

  • Whitehorse International Airport (YXY): located approximately 155 kilometers from the park

Bus Stations Near Kluane National Park

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: offers service to Haines Junction, located near Kluane National Park

Other Options

  • Car rental: a popular option for those who want to explore the park on their own

How to Get Around in Kluane National Park

Driving is the most common way to get around Kluane National Park. However, there are also several hiking trails and biking routes that provide visitors with stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Kluane National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Whitehorse: the capital of the Yukon Territory, offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites and museums, as well as enjoy a vibrant food and drink scene.
  • Alaska: Kluane National Park is located near the Alaska border, making it a great starting point for a trip to the Last Frontier.

Conclusion

A trip to Kluane National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning beauty of Northern Canada’s landscapes and First Nations culture. From hiking and biking to wildlife watching and cultural tours, Kluane National Park has something for everyone.

Kluane Lake Kluane Lake Mountains as far as the eye can see Mountains as far as the eye can see