Schwatka Lake
A serene reservoir on the Yukon River, perfect for fishing, paddling, and scenic floatplane tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for paddling
Schwatka Lake
Best Time
Calm waters for paddling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir on the Yukon River, perfect for fishing, paddling, and scenic floatplane tours.
"Beautiful views, also has a float plane operation that you can book for a ride."
🎣 Fishing Hotspots
Schwatka and Chadburn Lakes are good shore fishing spots near Whitehorse. :fishing_pole:
🛶 Paddle Power
Rent a canoe or kayak for a serene experience on the lake. :canoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Floatplane Adventures
Schwatka Lake
Experience the Yukon from above with a scenic floatplane tour departing from the lake.
Salmon Ladder Viewing
Yukon River near Schwatka Lake
Witness the incredible journey of salmon as they navigate the ladder, a vital part of their life cycle.
Miles Canyon Views
Adjacent to Schwatka Lake
Hike or bike along the trails for breathtaking vistas of the powerful Miles Canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Schwatka Lake
Getting Around Schwatka Lake
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Fishing Hotspots
Schwatka and Chadburn Lakes are good shore fishing spots near Whitehorse. :fishing_pole:
🛶 Paddle Power
Rent a canoe or kayak for a serene experience on the lake. :canoe:
✈️ Scenic Flights
Book a floatplane tour for stunning aerial views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. :airplane:
🚶♀️ Lakeside Trails
Enjoy peaceful walks with beautiful lake views. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Fishing Hotspots
Schwatka and Chadburn Lakes are good shore fishing spots near Whitehorse. :fishing_pole:
🛶 Paddle Power
Rent a canoe or kayak for a serene experience on the lake. :canoe:
✈️ Scenic Flights
Book a floatplane tour for stunning aerial views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. :airplane:
🚶♀️ Lakeside Trails
Enjoy peaceful walks with beautiful lake views. :walking:
🥶 Winter Wonders
Experience ice fishing or simply admire the frozen beauty in winter. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Schwatka Lake for its stunning natural beauty, tranquility, and peaceful atmosphere. It's a highly recommended spot for photography and outdoor activities like fishing and paddling. Some note the lack of amenities directly at the lake, suggesting a trip into Whitehorse for dining.
"Witnessing the most beautiful of magical northern lights in my life. Came here alone sitting inside the car and wait the whole night to captured these photos. I'm so gald to be one of my memory in Yukon life. It was two years ago."
King Ma
"Good place to be at night if you love quiet places.."
Harjot Singh
"Beautiful… tranquil and peaceful"
Gioconda Ward
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schwatka Lake is conveniently located just outside of Whitehorse. You can drive there in about 10-15 minutes, with parking available near the main docks. Many visitors also enjoy biking the scenic route.
Public transportation options directly to Schwatka Lake are limited. Driving or taking a taxi is the most common way to access the lake.
The most direct route is via the Alaska Highway, then taking the exit towards Schwatka Lake. The roads are generally well-maintained, especially during the summer months.
Yes, Schwatka Lake is accessible in winter, but be aware of icy conditions. The lake freezes over, allowing for activities like ice fishing. Always check local advisories for safety.
Schwatka Lake is close to Miles Canyon, offering stunning views and hiking trails. You're also a short drive from the heart of Whitehorse with its amenities and other attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Schwatka Lake itself. Access to the lake and its surrounding public areas is free.
Schwatka Lake is open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day. However, specific activities like floatplane tours or fishing charters will have their own operating hours.
Yes, a Yukon fishing license is required to fish in Schwatka Lake. You can obtain these licenses online or from authorized vendors in Whitehorse.
Parking at the main access points for Schwatka Lake is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any posted signage regarding parking regulations.
While floatplanes operate from Schwatka Lake, it's recommended to book your tour in advance with a local operator to secure your spot and confirm departure times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and scenic walks. In winter, ice fishing and enjoying the frozen landscape are popular. Floatplane tours offer a unique perspective.
Schwatka Lake is suitable for swimming, especially during the warmer summer months. Some visitors also recommend Chadburn Lake for swimming.
Yes, there are beautiful trails around Schwatka Lake, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding wilderness. Miles Canyon, adjacent to the lake, is a popular hiking spot.
Schwatka Lake is known for Dolly Varden, Arctic Grayling, and Northern Pike. Remember to check local fishing regulations and seasons.
Absolutely! Schwatka Lake offers stunning natural beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset. The floatplanes and wildlife also provide great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Schwatka Lake. You'll need to travel back to Whitehorse for dining options.
Yes, Schwatka Lake is a great spot for a picnic. There are several scenic areas where you can set up and enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Whitehorse offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, serving local and international cuisine.
You can typically purchase fishing bait and tackle from outdoor supply stores or bait shops in Whitehorse before heading to Schwatka Lake.
Food trucks or vendors are not a common sight at Schwatka Lake. It's best to pack your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat in Whitehorse.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photography at Schwatka Lake, casting a warm glow over the water and landscape.
The docks where floatplanes depart, the viewpoints overlooking Miles Canyon, and the tranquil lake surface itself are all highly photogenic.
Yes, the salmon ladder is a fascinating subject for photography, especially during the salmon run season. Be patient and respectful of the wildlife.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the vastness of the scenery, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, many floatplane operators can customize tours to allow for ample photography time. Inquire when booking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is a must for a family day out, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a beautiful view. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open spaces and natural environment provide ample room for kids to play and burn energy. Consider a short floatplane ride for an exciting treat if your budget allows.
🎣 Anglers
Whether you prefer fishing from the shore or launching a boat, Schwatka Lake offers accessible options. Nearby Chadburn Lake is also a recommended spot for shore fishing. For a more adventurous angling experience, consider guided fishing trips that can take you to more remote locations.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss capturing the iconic floatplanes taking off and landing, a signature scene of the Yukon. The adjacent Miles Canyon also provides dramatic vistas that are perfect for capturing the raw beauty of the region. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive scenes and a telephoto lens for wildlife spotting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Schwatka Lake
Reddit users suggest that both Schwatka Lake and nearby Chadburn Lake are good options for shore fishing within a reasonable distance of Whitehorse. For those looking to explore further, Lewes Lake is also mentioned as a productive fishing spot.
When planning your fishing trip, consider the season. The open water season typically runs from late spring through fall. In winter, ice fishing can be a unique experience, but always ensure the ice is thick and safe before venturing out.
Paddling and Water Activities
Several videos showcase the beauty of paddling on the lake, highlighting the tranquility and the opportunity to connect with nature. Renting a canoe or kayak is a popular way to explore the lake at your own pace, offering a different perspective than viewing from the shore.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a multi-day canoe trip down the Yukon River, which can include sections passing through Schwatka Lake. This allows for an immersive adventure through the Yukon wilderness.
The Magic of Floatplanes
Booking a scenic floatplane tour from Schwatka Lake offers unparalleled aerial views of the surrounding landscapes, including the vast wilderness, rivers, and potentially even wildlife. These tours provide a unique perspective that is hard to match from the ground.
For aviation enthusiasts, observing the floatplanes is a highlight in itself. The sight of these robust aircraft navigating the lake is a testament to the adventurous spirit of the North.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit