Summit Lake
British Colombia
Resting atop White Pass at the border of Alaska and the Yukon Territory, Summit Lake is a tranquil high-mountain lake surrounded by forests, mountains, and wildlife. Lined by the Klondike Highway, the lake is easily accessible and provides a great place to take a break from the road and enjoy a picnic or photo opportunity.
Regardless of how you travel, views of the lake are a staple on any journey from Skagway, Alaska, into the Yukon Territory. The Klondike Highway borders the northern side of Summit Lake and the White Pass Railway snakes along its opposite shore. You can take in the scenery from the White Pass train windows, but if you want the chance to stop at the lake, choose a Klondike Highway bus tour that stops at Summit Lake, along with other lakes, parks, and historic sites.
Alternately, you can rent a car and travel the route at your own speed, enabling you to spend extra time relaxing at the lake or exploring the surrounding hiking trails.
- Summit Lake is a pleasant spot to stop for a rustic picnic, but there are no picnic tables or bathrooms at the lake.
- If visiting from Skagway, Alaska, be sure to bring your passport for the border crossing into Canada.
- There are no campgrounds at the lake; the nearest accommodations are in Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon.
Summit Lake is located along the Klondike Highway about 47 miles (75 kilometers) south of Carcross, Yukon, and 19 miles (30 kilometers) north of Skagway, Alaska. You can view the lake from the White Pass Railway or visit by bus tour or car.
The lake is beautiful all year-round, with sparkling clear water from May through September and an ice-covered surface the remainder of the year. Hiking around the lake is possible in the summer, while in winter the area lends itself to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The scenic Klondike Highway offers a road into Canada’s mighty Yukon Territory and is a popular road trip for cruise ship passengers docked in Skagway. After Summit Lake, head to the historic town of Carcross—alive with gold rush history and First Nation culture. Take time to enjoy the beaches along Bennett Lake, then stop for photos at the colorful Emerald Lake—the vibrant green lake makes a great turn-around point for a day trip from Skagway.
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