From Skagway, head out on a day trip into Canada to check out one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Emerald Lake is a little north of the community of Carcross in the Yukon. The lake is renowned for the deep green color and the Surprise and Caribou Mountains in the distance. Enjoy a day trip over the border to take in the beauty of this shimmering lake.
Emerald Lake 91211 Alaska Hwy. Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 5V8, Canada
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Emerald Lake is north of the community of Carcross in the Southern Lakes, Yukon Territories, Canada and is a sightseeing destination for the beauty of the emerald color of the lake.
daihung | Flickr
From Skagway, travel south towards Southern Lakes and on your right, at the 117 Kilometre Marker of the South Klondike Highway, is the Emerald Lake Lookout. If you come to Carcross, you have gone too far.
daihung | Flickr
Emerald Lake is named for the impossibly brilliant aquamarine water that makes this spot look like it’s straight out of a travel magazine. On a sunny day, the lake is mesmerizing with a million colors of green and blue.
cleeuw | Flickr
The lake derives its bright color from the reflection of white deposits of marl, a mixture of clay and calcium carbonate, that lines the shallow lake.
Arthur T. LaBar | Flickr
The last ice age, 14,000 years ago, carved the shallow lake bed and deposited the high concentration of calcium carbonate in the water. It came from limestone gravel that eroded from the glaciers of the nearby mountain ranges.
JAYRNIV | Flickr
This incredible lake is a great mini roadtrip from Skagway. At 75 miles, the drive and a few hours of exploration is a lovely way to spend the day while in the area. Head here to hike, bike, or simply view this marvel of nature.
Jonathon Strack | Flickr
Most people take the time to stop at the scenic viewing spot and take in the beauty of the lake and the snow-capped mountains surrounding the area. This spot is great for taking photos and soaking in the views.
Anita Gould | Flickr
There is a 12 mile hike around the lake that can be tackled on foot or by mountain bike. It’s a fast, smooth fun trek with unbelievable views the whole way.
diane cordell | Flickr
The lake is usually glassy and serene, perfect for photography. There are several different trails in the area of various lengths for finding the best angle.
Arthur T. LaBar | Flickr
In the summer months, the Emerald Lake is absolutely enchanting. It’s worth the hassle of crossing the border to see this wonder.
Lacy | Flickr
More information about Emerald Lake here.
daihung | Flickr
cleeuw | Flickr
Arthur T. LaBar | Flickr
JAYRNIV | Flickr
Jonathon Strack | Flickr
Anita Gould | Flickr
diane cordell | Flickr
Lacy | Flickr
While in Skagway, try The One Restaurant In Alaska That Serves Tacos That Are Out Of This World Good. You might want to Sleep In This Train Car In Alaska For A Magical Adventure.
Have you been to Emerald Lake? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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