Did you know that nestled between the stunning snow-capped mountains and emerald-colored lakes of the Yukon there is a tiny desert? The Carcross Desert is located just outside of the town of Carcross. The dunes measure a mere one square mile. Despite the size, this small little corner of the Yukon stands in stark contrast to the stunning green lakes and mountains that surround it.
The Story Behind Carcross Desert
Although this area is often referred to as the “World’s Smallest Desert”, it’s actually just a series of sand dunes. In fact, the area is considered to be too humid and receives too much rain to be considered a desert, at all. However, the random patch of sand in the middle of a valley appears to be a dessert. The dunes are actually what is left of a massive glacial lake that was formed during our most recent glacial period. Pretty cool, huh?
Today, most of the sand here is carried by the wind from nearby Bennett Lake. Although the local government has made an effort to protect the area, they received opposition from the locals who used the dunes for recreational purposes.
What is there to do at the Carcross Desert?
Upon first glance, there doesn’t appear to be much to do here. When you initially pull into the parking lot you’ll see a few educational signs giving you the history of the area and a bathroom. The rest…is left up to your imagination. Whether you decided to climb to the top of the tunes, roll down the dunes, or build a sandcastle- the choice is up to you! We suggest climbing to the very top of the large sand dune to the north. This vantage point offers incredible views of Bennett Lake. Trust me, it’s worth the trek to the top of the dune!
Of course, if you have a bit more time, there are also tours available in the area if you’re interested in renting an ATV or sporting equipment. How cool would it be to spend the afternoon four-wheeling in this scenic location?
What else can I do in the desert?
- Sandboarding
- Off-roading tours
- Beach volleyball
- Hiking
- Skydiving
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Climbing
All in all, despite the desert being small (and not a desert at all), Carcross Desert is a great stopping point to break up your car trip. This photogenic little pocket of sand stands out in stark contrast to the emerald lakes and stunning snow-capped mountains that dominate the area. It is well worth the stop.
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