Weather
Both Pacific and Arctic climates affect the weather in the Haines Junction area. Coastal influences dominate in the southeastern portion of Kluane National Park and Reserve and the area south of Haines Junction receives more precipitation than the area to the north. But the Arctic influence holds sway in much of the rest of the region with less precipitation and extreme seasonal differences–cold winters and warm summers.
The massive St. Elias Mountains, the highest coastal range in the world, capture vast amounts of moisture from the Pacific, particularly on the coastal side. It is this precipitation that accumulates to form the ice age landscape. The continental slopes and the Shakwak Valley to the east are in their rain shadow and are classified as semi-arid.
Mountain environments have a multitude of micro-climates that reflect the variations of the topography. Weather can also change quickly and dramatically. Always be prepared for all types of weather.
Spring and Summer
With the return of extended hours of sunshine, winter activity enthusiasts relish the deep snow cover in the high country and the warm days of spring; this is an excellent time for skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding.
Summer at this latitude means wonderful long days with up to 19 hours of sunlight and generally warm temperatures in the valley bottoms. Below the treeline, summer begins in June, with June 15 -September 15 being the best time for hiking and camping. Temperatures range from 28° C (82°F) to 0°C (32°F); frost or snow can happen at any time of year, especially at higher elevations. Summers are shorter at higher elevations and snow can linger in the high country well into May and June.
Fall
Fall colours are fabulous and usually last from the first to the third week of September. By the end of September, temperatures have cooled considerably and there may be fresh snow in the high country. Ice is forming on the lakes by the end of October. Locals and visitors take advantage of this brief-but-colourful season, hunting, fishing, or taking a last hike into the high country.
Winter
In the heart of winter, days are short and the sun barely makes it over the peaks. December and January are the darkest months with sun from 11 am-1 pm depending on one’s location in relation to the peaks. The mean temperature in January is -21°C, with average highs of –16º C and lows of –27º C. But come February the days have stretched out and you can depend on lots of warm sunshine. Mid-February to mid-March is the best time for winter activities, long days, endless clear skies and still lots of snow!
Haines Junction is a full service community offering a range of accomodations, restaurants, gas stations and garage services, groceries, hardware supplies, banking services, recreational facilities; and an RCMP (police) station and health centre.
Below is a brief description of what to expect in the way of services at different times of the year.
Spring and Summer
All local businesses are open by the May 24th long weekend (national holiday weekend), and most stay open until the end of September. The town is busy with visitors from around the globe; we recommend that you book ahead for accommodation.
Fall
A few businesses close at the end of September, but the community is still very much open with plenty of services to satisfy visitors’ needs. With the coming of fall, life in the community slows down. Haines Junction at this time of year is a great place for a visit, a retreat or a getaway.
Winter
A number of services stay open through the winter to accommodate residents, winter visitors and activities. Winter is a social time for the community and visitors can participate in a number of local events. During certain winter events, like the Silver Sled Dog Race in early March, accommodations are heavily booked–best to reserve in advance.
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