Miles Canyon is the place where the Yukon River squeezes between dark basalt cliffs and turns a vivid turquoise before it spreads out below Whitehorse. Almost nine million years ago, lava flowed across the landscape here, and the river later cut a gorge through it, leaving the cliffs and fast-moving water you see today. The canyon was named in 1883 for an American military general, and it carries many older names too: the First Nations of the area used nearby Canyon City as a fishing camp, and gold seekers called it the Grand Canyon and funnelled their boats through its rapids on the way north. Today the main attraction is an 85-foot suspension bridge at the canyon, with viewpoints and a trail network that leads to the old site of Canyon City, where the Northwest Mounted Police once checked boats. It is a few kilometres from downtown, free to visit, and close enough to fit into a half day.
Getting there depends on the season. In summer a side road off the Alaska Highway, about seven kilometres from town, ends at a small parking lot a few metres from the bridge. In winter that road is closed, but the north side of the river can be reached year-round via Chadburn Lake Road, so check conditions and plan to walk in from the north or from town.
You can also walk from downtown along the Millennium Trail to the fish ladder and then along the river to the canyon; the full loop is around 15 kilometres, so choose the section that suits your energy and the weather.
What to do
Cross the suspension bridge for views of the turquoise water below, follow the cliff-top trails for different angles on the gorge and walk toward Canyon City to read the site's story. Summer brings guided hikes and a weekend arts event beside the bridge, and boat tours through the canyon are a summer-season activity. In winter the visit is quieter and colder: snow lines the rim, and ice builds along the edges of the river. Bring bear spray in the warmer months, and use boots with good grip because trails can be icy.
Who it suits
Everyone, since the walk can be as short as a few minutes from the bridge or as long as a day on the trails. It is a good first-morning outing in Whitehorse, a free alternative to paid tours, and a pairing for the S.S. Klondike grounds and the MacBride Museum in the afternoon.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk to a suspension bridge and canyon viewpoints, with trails along the Yukon River toward Canyon City.
Best time
Daylight hours in any season, with summer for the easiest access and winter for snow, ice and fewer people.
How long
From a short stroll at the bridge to a few hours on the trails.
Tips
In winter use the north-side access via Chadburn Lake Road, wear boots with grip, and bring bear spray in warmer months.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a free, scenic introduction to the Yukon River and the Gold Rush landscape.
- Families
- Great for children if you stay near the bridge and keep a close hand near the cliff edges.
- Couples
- A quiet riverside walk at the turquoise water, especially in crisp winter light.
- Pair with
- The S.S. Klondike grounds on the riverfront and the MacBride Museum downtown.
- Time needed
- One to three hours depending on how far you walk.
Good questions
Is Miles Canyon free?+
Yes, there is no admission, and trails and viewpoints are open to walk.
Can I get there in winter?+
Yes, but the summer side road is closed. The north side of the river is accessible year-round via Chadburn Lake Road, so plan your route accordingly.
How long is the suspension bridge?+
The bridge is about 85 feet long and sits near the canyon and the parking lot.
Can I walk there from downtown?+
Yes. The Millennium Trail leads to the fish ladder, and a path continues along the river to the canyon, with a full loop of about 15 kilometres.
Are boat tours running now?+
Boat trips through the canyon are a summer-season activity, so check availability before planning around one in winter.
