Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Miles Canyon Territorial Park protects a dramatic stretch of the Yukon River where the current narrows through a basalt canyon, creating a landscape shaped by ancient lava flows. Located a few kilometers north of Whitehorse, Yukon’s capital, the park covers an area renowned for its unique geology, Indigenous history, and vital gold rush heritage. The canyon's steep cliffs rise up to 68 meters (225 feet) above the river, showcasing rugged volcanic formations that create natural rapids, historically significant as a major obstacle for prospectors during the late 1890s. Visitors can explore several well-maintained trails that offer interpretive exhibits detailing the area's role in the Klondike Gold Rush, including remnants of the old tramway built to bypass the dangerous rapids. The park’s diverse ecology features boreal forest species such as spruce and pine alongside wildlife including moose, beavers, and numerous bird species. Recreation opportunities include day hiking, wildlife watching, photography, and paddling on calmer stretches of the Yukon River downstream. Seasonal events and educational programs provide insight into both Indigenous heritage and early settler history. Miles Canyon’s proximity to Whitehorse, combined with accessible trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, make it a favorite local and visitor site year-round. The site also functions as an important habitat corridor connecting adjacent natural areas, supporting ongoing conservation efforts in the southern Yukon region.
