Kluane National Park and Preserve in Canada’s Yukon District is a land of extremes, with Canada’s highest peak and the largest ice fields outside the poles. Hiking, rafting, and camping are popular activities, but caution is necessary due to grizzly bears and steep terrain. The Southern Tutchone Indians, who have lived in the park for thousands of years, are now custodians of the park and share their knowledge to conserve its natural resources.
Located in Canada’s Yukon District, Kluane National Park and Preserve is a geographical palace of mountains and ice. Hiking and rafting are some of the favorite tourist activities in this park. The Southern Tutchone Indians have resided in the park for thousands of years and, along with Parks Canada, are the custodians of this beautiful park.
Kluane National Park and Preserve is a land of extremes and a perfect place for those who want to challenge themselves in the great outdoors. The park contains Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, which is part of the St. Elias Mountains. It also has the largest ice fields outside the north and south poles, but at lower elevations the warmer valleys are filled with a variety of plants and animals. Two lakes, Kathleen Lake and Mush Lake, allow motor boats and canoeing.
A variety of hiking and camping experiences, for both beginners and experts, are available at Kluane National Park and Reserve. Novice hikers can opt for a guided tour, while experienced hikers can explore the ice fields and stay overnight. Some trails and paths require solid hiking skills and a strong sense of direction.
Whatever your level of outdoor experience, plan for the unexpected. Kluane National Park is no place for the faint of heart. Climate change, steep terrain, raging creeks, and grizzly bears make caution a necessity for safety. Hikers are advised to make a lot of noise so that any nearby bears take note of the human presence and are not startled or feel cornered.
Kluane National Park has the largest grizzly bear population in Canada. Other wildlife in the park includes golden and bald eagles, sheep, mountain goats, and caribou. The lakes and streams are full of fish, including trout, and fishing is permitted with a permit.
The Southern Tutchone, the indigenous people of Kluane National Park and Preserve, have evolved ways to survive the extremes of this area over many thousands of years. Their nomadic lifestyle has allowed them to take advantage of seasonal food opportunities. In 1943 the Southern Tutchone were denied access to fish and hunt in the Kluane Game Sanctuary, which was established that year. This denial of access was reversed when Kluane National Park and Preserve was created and the Southern Tutchones have now reclaimed their land. These people now share the management of the park and their knowledge of the area is essential to conserve its natural resources.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
