Explore Tombstone Territorial Park, one of Yukon’s most stunning destinations. Hike the Grizzly Lake, Rake Mountain, and Klondike River trails, spot alpine wildflowers, and discover tips for camping, wildlife viewing, and driving the rugged Dempster Highway.
Tombstone Territorial Park is a vast wilderness of rugged mountains, winding rivers, abundant wildlife, and magical wildflowers. Located 70 km up the Dempster Highway, the park is a popular stop for anyone driving toward the Arctic Ocean and Tuktoyaktuk.
I visited in June 2025 during my road trip from Vancouver into the Yukon. Tombstone wasn’t originally part of our itinerary, but after snow in the forecast and wildfire smoke disrupted our plans in Kluane National Park, we decided to head farther north and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. Tombstone quickly became one of our favourite stops, offering breathtaking views and peaceful solitude.
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Accessing the park
Tombstone Territorial Park is remote and wild — exactly what makes it so special. It’s located about 70 km up the Dempster Highway which, despite its name, is more of a gravel backroad full of potholes. If you’re planning to drive the full Dempster, it’s recommended to travel with at least two spare tires (and know how to change them). Cell service is almost non-existent, and you can go long stretches without seeing another vehicle, though in mid-summer, it’s become a fairly popular route.
The first 70 km are generally the best maintained, but it’s still a bumpy ride. We were glad to have a vehicle with relatively high clearance. Before heading up, fill up on gas at the station right at the start of the Dempster and stock up on groceries. You won’t want to make unnecessary return trips once you’re up there.
Camping in Tombstone Territorial Park
There is one front country campground in the park with 51 campsites. The gate is open year-round but it is serviced from ~May 9 to October 1 (2025 dates). The campsites are nice, though some are a bit small. There are a few right next to the river which are really nice. We did not make reservations before arriving (mid June) and our first night there there were only walk-in sites left available. So it can fill up.
For those wanting a deeper wilderness experience, there are several designated backcountry areas. The most popular is Grizzly Lake, though when we visited in mid-June, it hadn’t opened yet due to lingering snow (scheduled to open June 27, 2025). You can speak with staff at the visitor centre about random or wild camping options, which is what we did. Backcountry permits are required but free.
Rake Mountain Trail
For our one-night backcountry trip, we hiked the Rake Mountain Trail. The path is narrow and muddy in spots, but the effort is well worth it. As you climb higher, panoramic views of Tombstone’s jagged peaks and sweeping valleys unfold around you. It’s a quiet, less-traveled alternative to Grizzly Lake, perfect for a short overnight adventure. A bear canister is required for any backcountry trips (the visitors centre has a limited number to lend out).
Grizzly Lake Trail
When we visited, only the first half of the Grizzly Lake Trail was open due to snow higher up. Even so, hiking to the first viewpoint was well worth it. It’s a rewarding climb with stunning mountain scenery and glimpses of alpine meadows starting to bloom. It’s a good reminder that in the Yukon, even mid-June can still feel like early spring in the mountains!
Klondike River Trail
The Klondike River Trail is an easy option that begins right from the campground. It’s perfect for a relaxed morning or evening walk. When we visited, chunks of ice still floated in the river a beautiful reminder of how far north we were. Interpretive signs mention that moose and caribou are sometimes spotted from the trail, though we didn’t get lucky this time.
When to Visit / Best Time of Year
The best/easiest time to visit Tombstone Territorial Park is from late June through early September. In early June, snow can still block backcountry trails, and many facilities aren’t yet open. We loved our visit in mid-June due to the abundant wildflowers but some trails and facilities were still closed. July and August bring the warmest weather and the most visitors, while early September offers incredible fall colours and fewer crowds. Keep in mind that nights can get cold any time of year.
Wildlife and Safety
Wildlife is abundant in Tombstone from ground squirrels and foxes to caribou, moose, and grizzly bears. We actually saw our first grizzly of the trip while driving from Tombstone toward Tatchun Creek.
When hiking, carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and store all food properly at camp. The visitor centre provides great information on current bear activity and safety tips. A bear canister is required for any backcountry trips.
Land Acknowledgment
Tombstone Territorial Park lies within the Traditional Territory of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation. I acknowledge and respect the deep connection that the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in people have to this land its mountains, rivers, and wildlife and the generations of stewardship that continue to protect it today.
