The YukonCoal River Springs Territorial Park
A rare set of active tufa terraces — travertine 'staircases' formed by mineral springs — in a remote corner of the southeast Yukon.
Coal River Springs protects one of the most unusual geological features in Canada: an active tufa system where calcium-rich groundwater emerges and deposits pale, coral-like terraces as it flows downhill. The rimstone pools are fragile — a single footprint can damage a hundred years of growth — so the park has been managed as a strict ecological reserve since 1990. Fewer than 30 people typically visit in a year, and all must obtain a permit and briefing from Yukon Parks in Watson Lake first.
There is no road, no trail and no signage. Access is by floatplane from Watson Lake to a nearby lake, then a bushwhack in with a compass or GPS. Most visitors are experienced northern paddlers who add it to a Coal River canoe trip. The main viewing platform sits above the largest terrace complex; boardwalks keep you off the delicate deposits. Bring lots of insect repellent — the springs sit in a mossy black-spruce lowland that generates world-class mosquitoes.
Hours & entry
Free entry, permit required
Park open year-round · Yukon Parks Watson Lake office Mon-Fri 8:30-17:00 · Permits issued in Watson Lake, no on-site staff
What to see
The main tufa terrace and rimstone pools — Boardwalk platform 700 m south of the historic warden cabin site
Springhead source pool — Top of the main terrace, uphill end of the boardwalk
Coal River canyon confluence — 1.2 km east of the springs, where the outflow meets the Coal River
Tips from the ground
Register with Yukon Parks in Watson Lake before you fly — they will refuse a rescue call if you skip the briefing.
August has the lowest bug counts and warmest wading temperatures for river access.
Never step on the tufa; the boardwalk is the only permitted footprint anywhere near the terraces.
Questions, answered
What does it cost?
Park entry and permit are free. Floatplane charter from Watson Lake runs about $2,800-3,500 CAD return, split among up to 4 passengers.
Are there free-entry days?
Every day is free of charge — but you still need the mandatory permit from Watson Lake.
How long to visit?
Two to four nights is typical: one day in, one full day at the springs, one day out. Weather buffers are wise.
When is it closed?
The park is technically open year-round, but realistic access is late June through mid-September when floatplanes can land on open water.
Do I need to book?
Yes: contact Yukon Parks at 867-536-8005 in Watson Lake at least two weeks ahead for the permit and briefing. Book the floatplane 4-6 weeks ahead in summer.
Nearest town or shuttle?
Watson Lake, at Km 1021 of the Alaska Highway. Charters leave from the Watson Lake floatplane base at Wye Lake, 3 km east of downtown.
Every stay booked through The Yukon funds one verified tonne of carbon removal — same room, same price, the climate action already built into checkout.
You're not charged more and the hotel isn't paid less. It's just what happens when you tap Reserve.