Coal River Springs Territorial Park
A rare set of active tufa terraces — travertine 'staircases' formed by mineral springs — in a remote corner of the southeast Yukon.
Terraced tufa pools and mineral springs at Coal River Springs
What to expect at Coal River Springs Territorial Park
Coal River Springs protects one of the most unusual geological features in Canada: an active tufa system where calcium-rich groundwater emerges and deposits pale, coral-like terraces as it flows downhill. The rimstone pools are fragile — a single footprint can damage a hundred years of growth — so the park has been managed as a strict ecological reserve since 1990. Fewer than 30 people typically visit in a year, and all must obtain a permit and briefing from Yukon Parks in Watson Lake first.
There is no road, no trail and no signage. Access is by floatplane from Watson Lake to a nearby lake, then a bushwhack in with a compass or GPS. Most visitors are experienced northern paddlers who add it to a Coal River canoe trip. The main viewing platform sits above the largest terrace complex; boardwalks keep you off the delicate deposits. Bring lots of insect repellent — the springs sit in a mossy black-spruce lowland that generates world-class mosquitoes.
Questions about Coal River Springs Territorial Park
Park entry and permit are free. Floatplane charter from Watson Lake runs about $2,800-3,500 CAD return, split among up to 4 passengers.
Every day is free of charge — but you still need the mandatory permit from Watson Lake.
Two to four nights is typical: one day in, one full day at the springs, one day out. Weather buffers are wise.
The park is technically open year-round, but realistic access is late June through mid-September when floatplanes can land on open water.
Yes: contact Yukon Parks at 867-536-8005 in Watson Lake at least two weeks ahead for the permit and briefing. Book the floatplane 4-6 weeks ahead in summer.
Watson Lake, at Km 1021 of the Alaska Highway. Charters leave from the Watson Lake floatplane base at Wye Lake, 3 km east of downtown.
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