TATSHENSHINI-ALSEK PROVINCIAL PARK

Tatshenshini-Alsek Park is considered one of the most magnificent river systems on Earth and forms the basis of the British Columbia provincial park that bears its name. Located in the northwest corner of British Columbia, between Kluane National Park and Reserves in the Yukon and Glacier Bay & Wrangell-St Elias National Parks and Reserves in Alaska, Tatshenshini-Alsek Park contains nearly a million hectares of icy peaks, wild rivers, grizzly bears and unusual plant communities. These parks form the world's largest protected area, covering some 8.5 million hectares. The Tatshenshini-Alsek park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Alsek and Tatshenshini rivers are responsible for what makes the region so special. Their passage through the coastal mountains allows cool, moist ocean air to penetrate the cold interior. This rapid change from oceanic to inland environment, frequent flooding, landslides and avalanches, varied geology and great changes in altitude have created an exceptionally diverse range of habitat conditions. Despite its remote location, the magnificent Tatshenshini-Alsek region attracts a growing number of recreational visitors: kayakers and rafters are drawn to the two magnificent river systems; hikers and mountaineers discover endless unspoiled wilderness, from alpine meadows to the rugged peaks of the Alsek Ranges and Mount Fairweather, the province's highest peak at 4,633 metres; and mountain bikers can explore old mining roads and other interesting and challenging terrain.