Black-spire peaks above tundra on the Dempster Highway — and free pullout camping the whole way.
Tombstone sits along the legendary Dempster Highway, the only public road in North America to cross the Arctic Circle. The park's jagged volcanic peaks rise from tundra in colors that don't seem real, especially in late August as the tundra turns red.
Why it's special
It's the gateway to the Arctic, with peaks that look ripped out of a fantasy novel, and almost nobody up there.
Best time to go
Late June through early September. The window is narrow.
Getting there
Dempster Highway from Dawson City, YT. The Tombstone visitor center is at km 71.
Know before you go
- Dempster is gravel — 740 km of it to Inuvik.
- Carry two full-size spares, jerry cans of fuel.
- Free dispersed camping at pullouts; established sites $20.
- Grizzlies are common; food storage is critical.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Drive in daylight only — fast wildlife and worse drivers.
- Tombstone Mountain viewpoint is the iconic stop.
- Late August: tundra turns red, fewer mosquitoes.
- Dawson City for fuel, food, and a saloon experience.
Combine with
Dawson City, Kluane NP, Inuvik (long drive).