Carcross and Emerald Lake: An Easy Yukon Day Trip from Whitehorse
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.
Plan more days from town with our Yukon road trip guides.















