When you think of deserts, your mind might go straight to vast, sunbaked landscapes like the Sahara or the Gobi. But not all deserts are sprawling seas of sand. In fact, the world’s smallest desert is so tiny, you could walk across it in less than 10 minutes.
Welcome to the Carcross Desert, located in Yukon, Canada.
Wait—A Desert in Canada?
Yes, you read that right. Nestled just outside the small community of Carcross, the Carcross Desert spans only about 1 square mile (2.6 square kilometers). It’s often referred to as the world’s smallest desert, though technically, it’s more of a dune field than a true desert by climate standards.
Despite its dry, sandy appearance, Carcross receives too much precipitation to meet the strict meteorological definition of a desert. However, the arid conditions and sandy terrain make it desert-like in every other way.
How Did It Form?
The Carcross Desert formed during the last ice age. As glaciers retreated, they left behind glacial silt in the area. Over time, strong winds blowing through nearby Bennett Lake created the dunes we see today. The result is a sandy patch of land surrounded by alpine mountains and boreal forest—a truly unique landscape.
What Makes It Special?
- Unique Ecosystem: The dunes are home to rare plants not found elsewhere in Yukon, making it a small but important ecological zone.
- Local Recreation: Residents and visitors use the area for sandboarding, hiking, and ATV riding in the summer, and even cross-country skiing in the winter.
- Photogenic Landscape: The contrast between the dunes and the surrounding forests and mountains makes it a favorite stop for photographers and road trippers.
How to Visit
The Carcross Desert is easily accessible from Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon. It’s a popular stop along the South Klondike Highway, and it’s free to visit. There are no entry fees or permits required—just park nearby and explore the dunes on foot.
Final Thought
While it may not check every box on the scientific definition of a desert, the Carcross Desert definitely wins the title for smallest and most unexpected. It’s a reminder that the world is full of surprises—and sometimes, the most extreme landscapes come in the smallest packages.
Stay curious. Stay adventurous. Stay stoked.
