Watson Lake

Visit Watson Lake's Wye Lake Park hiking trail

Gateway to the Yukon

On the Alaska Highway in the southeastern corner of the territory, Watson Lake welcomes thousands of visitors to the Yukon each year. A egional and transportation centre, Watson Lake is the Yukon’s third largest community. What began as a fish camp and small airstrip boomed during the construction of the Alaska Highway, when thousands of US Army soldiers arrived to build this renowned roadway. The Watson Lake area is home to the Liard First Nation and is the traditional territory of the Kaska people.

In addition to welcoming travellers, the Watson Lake Visitor Information Centre interprets the fascinating story of the Alaska Highway. Next door is the town’s World Famous Signpost Forest, started in 1942 by a homesick US Army soldier. Nearby, the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre explores the science and folklore of the aurora borealis.

The town of Watson Lake offers a variety of visitor services, amenities and attractions including a golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, trails, parks and a recreation centre. Indulge in a steamy soak at Liard Hot Springs on your way to Watson Lake. Watch for birds in the heart of town as you stroll around Wye Lake, and stop at Lucky Lake for a picnic and a ride on the waterslide.