Community profile

Carmacks

Carmacks is situated on the Traditional Territory of the Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation.

At its prime position where the Yukon and Nordenskiold rivers meet, the Carmacks area has been an important spot on the map for countless centuries.

The local Northern Tutchone people depended on the area for resources, and traded with other First Nations travelling the river. It’s kept its critical role as a stop between Whitehorse and Dawson on the Overland Trail built in 1902, and then on the present North Klondike Highway.

Carmacks offers several amenities including a K-12 school, healthcare and college in addition to various private businesses including groceries, gas and hotel accommodation.

Carmacks remains popular with both river and highway travellers. It’s a great spot where boats can launch for the trip to Dawson City or for fishing right near Carmacks. In addition to recreating on the rivers, people can enjoy camping, wildlife viewing, hiking, walking along the interpretive riverside boardwalk, or taking in famous events like the Yukon Quest or Yukon River Quest. 

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New housing can be seen along the Yukon River in Carmacks
New housing can be seen alongside the Yukon River. 
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The municipal building in Carmacks, Yukon
The municipal office in Carmacks surrounded by summer greenery.
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Travellers take the North Klondike Highway towards Dawson City from Carmacks
Carmacks is called "the hub of the Yukon." Here travellers from Whitehorse take the North Klondike highway across the Yukon River towards Pelly Crossing and Dawson City.
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The Carmacks recreation centre opened in 2023.
The Carmacks Recreation Centre opened in 2023. It includes a large indoor space for hockey, curling, broomball, and other seasonal activities. 

Quick facts

Population: 577

Distance to Whitehorse: 177 kilometres

Did you know? Carmacks is named after George Carmack, one of the prospectors who, with Skookum Jim Mason, was involved in the initial discovery of Klondike Gold.