Hidden Gems of the Southern Lakes: Carcross, Tagish & Marsh Lake
Turquoise water, white dunes, and deep heritage — the perfect day trip from Whitehorse.
Many visitors base themselves in Whitehorse and never venture far. That’s a mistake — because a short drive south lies the Southern Lakes region, one of the most beautiful and varied corners of the whole territory. Turquoise water, white sand dunes, gold-rush history, and First Nations heritage all sit within an easy day trip. Here’s how to spend it.
Carcross: desert, lake, and mountain
The historic village of Carcross packs a startling amount into a small footprint. Wander the restored Carcross Commons with its First Nations carvings and shops, stand on the shore of Bennett Lake, and visit the Carcross Desert — a pocket of sand dunes often billed as the world’s smallest desert, left behind by an ancient glacial lake.
Emerald Lake
On the drive between Whitehorse and Carcross, pull over at Emerald Lake, whose impossibly green-blue water comes from light reflecting off white marl on the lakebed. It is one of the most photographed spots in the Yukon, and for good reason — stop for photos and simply to stare.
Montana Mountain and the trails
Above Carcross, Montana Mountain holds a world-class network of hand-built mountain-bike and hiking trails, much of it created by local First Nations youth. Even if you don’t ride, the area is superb for walking and views.
Tagish and Marsh Lake
Further along, Tagish and Marsh Lake offer beaches, boat launches, and quiet lakeside relaxation. In late spring, the open water at the north end of Marsh Lake draws swans by the thousands during migration — a spectacular, lesser-known wildlife event.
Making a day of it
The whole loop is easily done from Whitehorse in a day, but it rewards an unhurried pace. Pack a picnic, a swimsuit in summer, and a camera, and leave time to detour. Better yet, stay a night at a lakeside resort to catch the region’s dark skies and quiet mornings.
The Southern Lakes prove that in the Yukon, some of the best experiences are hiding just off the main route — close enough for a day, memorable enough to plan a trip around.