Top 16 Lakes around Yukon
Best lakes around Yukon are found within a vast wilderness known for its natural beauty and ecological significance. The territory features numerous lakes, many of which are set against dramatic mountain backdrops, including the St. Elias Mountains. These bodies of water provide habitats for diverse aquatic flora and fauna, and have played roles in historical events like the Klondike Gold Rush. The region's lakes offer varied experiences for those exploring the natural landscape.
Best lakes around Yukon
- The most popular…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Auriol Trail
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Kluane National Park and Reserve
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Schwatka Lake Trail
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Kathleen Lake (Mät’àtäna Män)
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Hidden Lakes
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Popular around Yukon
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You could spend hours strolling along the shore of this large, beautiful lake, with new views opening up time and time again. Unfortunately, the adjacent trails were closed due to bears.
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A wonderful trail through stunning scenery with views of the mountains and, at the end, Haines Junction. Bear territory!
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The area around the Hidden Lakes is absolutely fantastic for hiking, relaxing and diving deep into nature. You walk along lakes, ponds, marshes, aspen and scenting pine trees that are home for numerous squirrels. The main loop is about 1.8 kilometers, but there are lots of options to extend your hike. The Hidden Lakes are kettle lakes: they were formed when melting glacial ice left depression during the last ice age. The Hidden Lakes region is perfect for a family hike or a longer adventure – it's up to you!
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The 'Schwatka Lake Trail' is part of the 'Yukon River Loop Trail' on the east bank of the 'Yukon River'. The path leads along the lake from the 'Whitehorse Rapids Dam' to the 'Robert E. Lowe Bridge', the suspension bridge over the 'Miles Canyon', the 'White Horse Rapids' in the narrow rocky gorge of the river, which was notorious during the time of the 'Klondike Gold Rush'. At the fish ladder at the dam, the trail goes steeply uphill on a heavily eroded mountainside. The erosion was probably caused by the construction of the dam and the formation of the 'Schwatka Lake'. At the viewpoint you have a very good view of the lake, which spreads out to the south. The rest of the route first leads steeply down to the lake and then through coniferous forests along the shore to 'Miles Canyon' and the suspension bridge over the gorge. https://www.whitehorse.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/YukonRiverLoopTrailBrochur.pdf
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The trailhead of the Auriol Trail is just off the Haines Highway, 7 km south of Haines Junction. The well-trodden path leads through a mixed boreal coniferous forest (cold-temperate forest) with a slight incline. Further up, the circular hike goes through wetlands with small lakes to the sub-alpine zone, where you have a wonderful view of the mountains of the 'Auriol Range', especially the peaks of 'Mount Martha Black'. The trail is marked - with kilometer information. In spring you have to reckon with deep snow conditions on the path when descending on the west side. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/yt/kluane/activ/randonnee-hiking/auriol
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Kluane National Park and Reserve is located in the Yukon Province and borders British Columbia and Alaska. The national park was established in 1976 and protects more than 22,000 km2 of Canada's Northern Coastal Mountains. Kluane and adjacent Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska were jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Kluane National Park is home to Canada's highest mountains, including Mount Logan (5,959 m), Canada's highest peak. The park features the world's largest non-polar ice fields, covering almost half of the park. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/yt/kluane/visit/cartes-maps/PNR-Kluane-NPR https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/yt/kluane http://parkscanadahistory.com/publications/fact-sheets/eng/kluane.pdf
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The beautifully situated Lake Mät'àtäna Män (Kathleen Lake) is south of Haines Junction on the Haines Highway. Kathleen Lake is one of the national park's main attractions with opportunities for hiking and recreation. There is a well-maintained campsite near the lake with toilets and access to fresh drinking water. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/yt/kluane/visit/services/kathleen
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes to visit in Yukon?
Yukon's lakes offer diverse experiences. Kluane National Park and Reserve, home to Kluane Lake, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic mountain backdrops and wildlife. Kathleen Lake (Mät’àtäna Män), also within Kluane National Park, is a favorite for hiking and recreation. For unique natural beauty, Emerald Lake is renowned for its vibrant green and blue hues.
What outdoor activities can I do around Yukon's lakes?
The lakes around Yukon provide numerous outdoor opportunities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, mountain biking, paddling (kayaking, canoeing), fishing, and wildlife viewing. Many lakes offer well-maintained trails and campsites. For specific routes, explore options like the easy hikes around Yukon, MTB trails around Yukon, or cycling routes around Yukon.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Yukon?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Kathleen Lake (Mät’àtäna Män) offers recreation and a well-maintained campsite. The area around Hidden Lakes is fantastic for family hikes, with a main loop of about 1.8 kilometers and options to extend. Simpson Lake also has a wheelchair-accessible campground and shallow shorelines suitable for families.
What natural features make Yukon's lakes unique?
Yukon's lakes are known for their stunning natural features. Emerald Lake stands out with its vibrant green and blue colors, caused by sunlight reflecting off calcium carbonate. Fox Lake is celebrated for its crystal-clear water revealing a rainbow of colors at the bottom. Many lakes, like Kluane Lake, are set against dramatic mountain backdrops, including the St. Elias Mountains, and feature diverse aquatic flora and fauna.
Which lakes have historical significance in Yukon?
Several lakes in Yukon hold historical importance. Bennett Lake played a significant role as a transportation route during the Klondike Gold Rush. Lake Laberge is another historical gem, allowing visitors to connect with the legacy of fur traders and gold prospectors who once traversed its waters.
Are there good hiking trails near Yukon's lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. The Auriol Trail near Kluane National Park offers stunning views of the Auriol Range. The Schwatka Lake Trail leads along the lake from the Whitehorse Rapids Dam. Kathleen Lake (Mät’àtäna Män) is also a popular spot for hiking. For more options, check out easy hikes around Yukon.
Where can I go for paddling or kayaking on Yukon lakes?
Yukon's lakes are ideal for paddling. Atlin Lake offers pristine waters perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Lake Laberge is suitable for boating and kayaking, connecting visitors with historical routes. Simpson Lake is a top pick for paddling, offering quiet waters and opportunities to see wildlife. Emerald Lake also provides serene settings for canoeing and kayaking.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Yukon's lakes?
Yukon's lakes are vital habitats for diverse wildlife. Around Kluane Lake, you might spot bears, moose, and eagles. Simpson Lake is often quiet, providing opportunities to see moose, swans, and nesting loons. The lakes also support various aquatic flora and fauna, including fish like lake trout and salmon, and serve as breeding grounds for numerous bird species.
Are there any lakes near Whitehorse that are easy to access for a day trip?
Yes, Emerald Lake is a popular day trip destination, located approximately 30-45 minutes from Whitehorse. Fox Lake and Little Fox Lakes are just over an hour from Whitehorse and known for their clear, colorful waters. The Schwatka Lake Trail is also easily accessible from Whitehorse.
What is the best time to visit Yukon lakes?
The best time to visit Yukon lakes largely depends on the activities you plan. Summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather for hiking, paddling, and camping. Fall brings stunning autumn colors, though some trails might have deep snow conditions in spring, especially at higher elevations. Winter provides opportunities for activities like ice fishing or snowshoeing, but access to some areas may be limited.
Which lake is the largest in Yukon?
Kluane Lake is the largest lake entirely within the Yukon, covering an area of 409 km² (158 sq mi). However, Atlin Lake, which stretches across the Yukon-British Columbia border, is the largest natural lake in Yukon with a surface area over 700 square kilometers.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Yukon? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
