Rock Glacier Trail

Distance: 1.6 km (1 mi) return trip
Time: 0.5 - 2 hrs
Elevation gain: 90 m (300')
Maximum elevation: 790 m (2,600')

Trailhead: 44 km (27.4 mi) south of Haines Junction on the Haines Road
Topo map: Mush Lake 115 A/6

In summary

The Rock Glacier Trail is a self-guided trail with interpretive panels providing interesting information on the rock glacier. This is an easy walk and an excellent way to see and learn about rock glaciers.

The details

The first portion of the trail is a raised boardwalk that travels through a marshy area. It then enters a forest of spruce and poplars where numerous glacial streams can be seen. Upon leaving the boardwalk, the trail climbs onto the toe of the rock glacier. From here you will have an excellent view of Dezadeash Lake. Walking is easy on large, flat slabs of rock as far as the observation area. The trail ends at this point but it is possible to continue up the rock glacier where the hiking will be difficult on the loose rock.

What you need to know

Sturdy footwear is recommended for the last part of the trail (on the rock glacier itself). Also, the boardwalk and rocks will be slippery on rainy wet days, so use caution.

Bear sightings are common in this area. Review recommendations for travel in the You Are In Bear Country brochure. All bear sightings should be reported to the staff at the Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre in Haines Junction.