Carcross and Emerald Lake: An Easy Yukon Day Trip from Whitehorse
Road Trips

Carcross and Emerald Lake: An Easy Yukon Day Trip from Whitehorse

Visit Whitehorse Editors 8 min read

South of Whitehorse, the South Klondike Highway lifts you out of the river valley and through some of the most photogenic country in the southern Yukon. Emerald Lake’s green water, the small dunes near Carcross, and the historic First Nations community at the foot of Bennett Lake can form an easy day-trip route.

Stops along the way

  • Emerald Lake — a highway pull-off and viewpoint; follow current parking guidance.
  • Carcross Desert — a small area of sand dunes and sensitive habitat.
  • Carcross Commons — public art, local businesses, and visitor information when open.
  • Bennett Lake waterfront — an easy place to pause with mountain views.

Continuing on

If the weather, road conditions, border requirements, and your schedule allow, the route continues toward White Pass and the British Columbia border. Pushing farther adds border crossings and a much longer day, so verify requirements and leave a conservative margin.

Good next step

Compare practical options for the day

Use these picks to compare timing, pickup details, location, and price before you decide what fits.

Arctic Day: Hiking Tour | half day
★ 5.0 (4 reviews)

Arctic Day: Hiking Tour | half day

Free Cancellation

On this tour, you’ll see some of the most breathtaking views of the Yukon’s landscape and scenery including Mile...

Before you book

Plan the next part of your Whitehorse trip

Use the details here to compare pace, logistics, group size, and the experience that best fits the day.

The Best of Yukon City Private Tour
★ 5.0 (3 reviews)

The Best of Yukon City Private Tour

Free Cancellation

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Together with the professional guide, you will visit the...

Plan more days from town with our Yukon road trip guides.