Yukon, Canada : Tagish Road

Tagish Road, also referred to as Highway #8, is a 53 kilometre stretch of road that dips down into the Southern Lakes region of the Yukon Territory from Jake's Corner on the Alaska Highway.

The highway connects Jake's Corner with the community of Tagish and then connects up with the Klondike Highway which then leads travelers to the community of Carcross, Yukon. Just down the road from Jake's Corner is another major route - Atlin Road - which leads to the community of Atlin in British Columbia.

Highway #8 is actually part of the original construction of the Alaska Highway. It was on the Tagish Highway where the North-West Mounted Police set up shop. Their goal was to monitor the activities of the pan handlers and trappers during the Klondike Gold Rush.

Highway #8 or Tagish Road is a good opportunity to enjoy some sightseeing and wildlife viewing while exploring off the main Alaska Route Highway. The narrow two lane highway passes by many lakes and crosses over a major river. There area few pull outs on the road for sightseeing.

Some of the waterways located along the highway route include the Little Atlin, Marsh, Tagish, Chootle, Nares and Crag Lakes and the 6 Mile River. The bridge crossing the 6 Mile River (Tagish River) is massive and long. It is a major launching point for boats and canoes wanting to access Marsh and Tagish Lakes.

Because the route is surrounded by lakes and forests it is an ideal route for wildlife and birdwatching. Many lakes in the region are on the migratory path of birds. In the spring months, the waterways around 6 Mile River, Tagish, Chootle and Marsh Lakes are visited by some of the largest groupings of swans and many other waterfowl.

It is an ideal envornment for wildlife. While driving and exploring it is important to be aware of wildlife. Some of the wildlife to watch for include bear, moose, fox, caribou, elk, deer and beaver.

The Tagish Road, combined with a section of the Klondike and Alaska Highways create a sightseeing loop route ideal for sightseeing, rving, cycling and touring.