FIRST NATIONS CROSSROADS

Pelly Crossing

Pelly River crossing at Pelly Crossing village

Pelly Crossing is a Selkirk First Nation community of about 350 people on the Klondike Highway where it crosses the Pelly River, halfway between Carmacks and Stewart Crossing. It's small, quiet, and functional — a gas station, a store, a school, a health centre. Historically the site is significant: Fort Selkirk, 60 km downstream at the confluence of the Pelly and Yukon Rivers, was a major Hudson's Bay trading post and is now a heritage site accessible by riverboat or (for the ambitious) canoe.

For highway travellers Pelly Crossing is a stretch stop and fuel top-up. For anyone interested in Northern Tutchone culture and the Selkirk First Nation, the Big Jonathan House interpretive centre on the highway is a genuine highlight — small, well-curated, and often staffed by knowledgeable community members. Not a place to plan a long stay, but a worthwhile stop rather than just a fuel bar.

Where to stay

There's essentially no formal hotel in Pelly Crossing. A small motel-style operation and the occasional cabin rental serve highway traffic, $110-150. Most travellers pass through and sleep in Carmacks (100 km south) or Stewart Crossing (110 km north). If you want to visit Fort Selkirk, arrange a river shuttle in advance through Whitehorse-based outfitters and plan multiple days.

Getting there

Drive from Whitehorse: 278 km north on the Klondike Highway, about 3.5 hours. From Dawson 250 km south. Husky Bus stops on request. No local transit. Fuel at the Pelly Crossing station — the next fuel north is Stewart Crossing 110 km further, south is Carmacks 100 km back. In winter phone ahead to confirm fuel availability, though this station is generally reliable year-round.

Frequently asked questions

Is Pelly Crossing worth stopping at?

Ten minutes for fuel and a stretch: yes, always. Longer if the Big Jonathan House is open — an hour there is well spent. As an overnight destination, only if you’re launching a Fort Selkirk river trip. Otherwise sleep in Carmacks or push on.

How do I get to Fort Selkirk?

By boat — no road access. Whitehorse-based outfitters (Kanoe People, Ruby Range Adventure) run guided trips and shuttles. Independent paddlers can put in at Pelly Crossing and take out at Minto or Carmacks after visiting Fort Selkirk. Plan for 2-4 days on the water minimum.