Lying at the crossroads of the Haines and Alaska highways, the small Yukon village of Haines Junction sees hundreds of tourists passing through each year – many stop a while, taking the opportunity to spend time in nearby Kluane National Park.
Haines Junction began its life as a United States army base, housing engineers building the Alaska Highway. Today Haines Junction is a laid-back village surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine outdoor playground, making it an ideal base for wilderness adventures of all types.
Less than an hour from Haines Junction, Kluane National Park is a must-visit for wilderness and wildlife lovers. Home to the largest non-polar icefields in the world, Kluane is relatively untouched by roads being mainly accessible by air, water and foot. Kathleen Lake, on the Park’s eastern border, is the focal point for highway- accessible water-based recreation. The campground here provides tent and RV camping on a first come-first serve basis.
A half kilometre boardwalk skirts the shores of the lake – an easy amble for all - while those with more energy might like to challenge themselves by hiking the 5km Kings Throne Trail. And, if you’d rather just soak in the scenery, there’s plenty happening around you to make Kluane a memorable place to visit.