The Park
Kusawa Park is an area with a diverse natural landscape. It is a rich First Nations homeland and was a significant historic trade route for both Alaskan and Yukon First Nations. Because of the area’s natural and cultural values the park has great significance to First Nations people and all Yukoners which is why it has been recognized for park status.
Park Objectives
The objectives for Kusawa Park were created and agreed on through the Carcross/Tagish First Nation and Kwanlin Dun First Nation land claim agreement processes and ratification. The objectives relate to the protection of the natural values, First Nation values, recreational values and economic opportunities within the Park.
A Natural Treasure
Kusawa Park is located in the Coast Mountains, and is known for its wildlife diversity, including populations of Dall sheep, mountain goats, raptors and grizzly bears. The watershed supports lake trout, whitefish, grayling and salmon. Impressive sand dunes and extensive boreal grasslands are special ecological features of the proposed park.
Traditional Homeland
Kusawa is the Tlingit word for narrow lake. It is a traditional homeland and was a central trade route for the Southern Tutchone, Tlingit and Chilkat First Nations. ‘Nakhu’ the Kusawa Lake narrows provided an essential crossing for traveling traders, hunters and gatherers.
Today and in Recent History
Today, the long deep Kusawa Lake and the Takhini River are popular destinations for camping, canoeing, boating, hiking, angling, hunting outfitting and wilderness travel.
Map of the Area
Kusawa Park includes 3000 square kilometre of protected area. The boundaries were established with the signing of the Carcross Tagish and Kwanlin Dun Final Agrements.