The best walks and hikes in Tombstone Territorial Park

Tombstone Territorial Park offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter rugged, jagged peaks, permafrost landforms, and glacially carved granite mountains. The landscape transitions from boreal forest in river valleys to extensive alpine and arctic tundra, with treeless, permafrost-dominated areas in the northern sections. Be prepared for rough, uneven ground, and potentially steep climbs.

Yes, Tombstone Territorial Park has several easy trails. For example, the Goldensides Mountain trail is an easy 5.9 km route offering great views of the Dempster Highway and surrounding mountains. Another accessible option is the North Klondike Trail, which follows the scenic North Klondike River through a lush poplar forest.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the park is renowned for its multi-day backcountry expeditions. The route to Grizzly Lake, Divide Lake, and Talus Lake is a popular and demanding 48 km return trip. This journey involves significant elevation gain, steep climbs, rocky ridges, and often difficult terrain, including sections like Glissade Pass with its steep and loose talus slopes.

The park is rich in natural features. You can witness unique permafrost formations like pingos, moraines, ice-wedges, and frost mounds. Notable landmarks include the striking Tombstone Mountain, Mount Monolith, and the pristine alpine lakes such as Grizzly Lake, Divide Lake, and Talus Lake. The Edge of the Arctic is another point of interest.

The best time for hiking is typically during the summer and early fall. The fall season, especially, is spectacular as the tundra vegetation transforms into vivid crimson, gold, and red hues. However, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including sun, rain, snow, and hail, regardless of the season.

While many trails are rugged, there are options that can be suitable for families, especially the easier, shorter routes. The North Klondike Trail, for instance, offers a relatively flat and scenic walk. Always check trail conditions and difficulty ratings to ensure they match your family's abilities and be prepared for variable weather.

Absolutely. Tombstone Territorial Park is teeming with diverse fauna. Hikers often have opportunities to spot migrating caribou, grizzly and black bears, moose, Dall's sheep, eagles, and falcons. The vast, open tundra provides excellent visibility for wildlife viewing. Always carry bear spray and know bear safety protocols.

For day hikes, permits are generally not required. However, if you plan on multi-day backcountry trips, especially to popular areas like Grizzly Lake, permits are mandatory and must be obtained in advance. The Tombstone Interpretive Centre is the primary resource for trail maps, permits, and up-to-date information on trail conditions and bear safety.

Designated parking areas are available at various trailheads along the Dempster Highway. For example, the Goldensides Mountain Trailhead offers parking. The Tombstone Interpretive Centre also serves as a central point for information and access to some trails.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's dramatic and unique landscapes, the sense of remote wilderness, and the incredible views from its rugged peaks and alpine tundra. The vibrant fall colors are also frequently highlighted as a favorite aspect.

Yes, there are loop options for hikers. For instance, the Angelcomb Peak loop from Angelcomb Peak is a moderate 5.8 km route. Another example is the Viewpoint of Grizzly Lake – View of Grizzly Lake loop from North Klondike River, which is a more challenging 10.3 km trail.

Weather in Tombstone Territorial Park can be highly unpredictable and change rapidly. Hikers should be prepared for all conditions, including sun, rain, snow, and hail, even in summer. Always carry appropriate layers, waterproof gear, and be ready to adapt your plans based on forecasts and current conditions.