Carmacks, Yukon

The local Northern Tutchone people depended on it for resources, and traded with other First Nations travelling the river. It’s kept its critical role, first as a stop between Whitehorse and Dawson on the Overland Trail built in 1902, and then on the present North Klondike Highway.

Carmacks remains popular with both river and highway travellers. It’s a great spot where boats can launch for the trip to Dawson City or for fishing right near Carmacks. For paddlers taking the longer voyage from Whitehorse, Carmacks is about the halfway mark and a good spot to replenish supplies.

Whether arriving by river or highway, visitors find many ways to spend their time here. The boardwalk by the water has interpretive signs on the area’s interesting history and culture. Just north of the Yukon River bridge, the Tagé Cho Hudän Interpretive Centre has fascinating artifacts and examples of the local First Nation heritage, including a dugout canoe and a moose skin boat. Odds are pretty good that the #mooseskinboat hashtag will be the first for your social media followers. 

Take the short drive up the North Klondike toward Dawson City to view the infamous Five Finger Rapids. This spot on the river posed a significant obstacle for gold seekers. But for you, it's just one more beautiful stop on your Yukon adventure.