Miles Canyon

Miles Canyon is a narrow river canyon on the Yukon River near Whitehorse in Yukon, Canada, notable for its steep rock walls and strong river currents. The feature is a regional landmark tied to both natural geology and human history.

Trails and lookouts run along the canyon rim and shoreline, providing close views of the river and interpretive information about the sites geology and human use. A pedestrian suspension bridge and several viewpoint areas offer accessible vantage points for photography and observation.

The canyon was a major obstacle for prospectors and river traffic during the Klondike Gold Rush, leading to portages around the rapids; the nearby settlement eventually took the name Whitehorse from the rapids appearance. The sites history is interpreted on panels along established trails.

Situated on the Yukon River just west of Whitehorse, the canyon is within easy reach of the city and sits amid boreal forest and riverine terrain.

• Proximity to Whitehorse: The canyon lies a few kilometres west of downtown Whitehorse and is reached by short drives or local trails from the city.
• Interpretation: Interpretive panels along the trails explain the canyons geology and its role in the Klondike Gold Rush, making it suitable for short educational walks.

What to See #

• Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge: A pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the Yukon River that provides close-up views of the canyon and river below; the bridge is a common access point for the main trail network.
• Trails and lookouts: A network of riverside trails and lookout points following the canyon rim and shoreline, offering interpretive signs about geology and Gold Rush history.
• Yukon River rapids site: The historic rapids on the Yukon River that gave nearby Whitehorse its name and that historically required portage during the Klondike Gold Rush.