Overview
Tombstone Territorial Park lies in Canada's north, along the Dempster Highway, about 1.5 hours from Dawson City. Sharp granite spires, wide tundra and braided rivers make it one of the most striking landscapes in the Yukon, and in late summer the tundra turns red, gold and orange.
The park has an interpretive centre, short trails and backcountry routes to alpine lakes such as Grizzly Lake and Talus Lake, with campgrounds and huts for overnight stays. Caribou, grizzly bears and many birds live here, and the northern lights can be seen from late August on clear nights.
Highlights
- The jagged spires of Tombstone Mountain
- Colourful tundra in late August and September
- The Tombstone Interpretive Centre and short walks
- Backcountry hikes to Grizzly Lake and Talus Lake
Best time to visit
July and August have long days, and the tundra is greenest. Late August to mid-September brings autumn colour and the first northern lights. The park is very cold from October, and facilities close.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Good
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Whitehorse (YXY) and drive about six hours to Dawson City, or fly to Dawson City (YDA). The park is about 71 km from the start of the Dempster Highway, a gravel road that needs a vehicle with a spare tyre and fuel. Some tour companies offer guided trips.
What to expect
Moderate. The drive is long and the gravel road requires care. Backcountry hikes are rugged, with changeable weather and few facilities. Be prepared for cold, rain and wildlife.
Practical tips
- Carry two spare tyres, fuel and supplies on the Dempster Highway, and check road conditions before you go.
- Reserve backcountry campsites and huts in advance.
- Carry bear spray and a satellite communicator for backcountry travel.
- Take warm clothes, as snow is possible even in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Tombstone from Dawson City?
About 1.5 hours by road to the interpretive centre.
Is the Dempster Highway safe?
It is a gravel highway that needs careful driving and a good spare tyre. Check conditions with Yukon authorities.
When can I see the northern lights?
From late August on dark, clear nights, with the best chances in September.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Steraw04 at English Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
