Atlin (population: 400) is often referred to as the Switzerland of the North. The name itself, which comes from the Tlingit word "atlah," actually means "Big Water." Both of these descriptions are suitable for this small isolated community that sits on the province's largest natural lake and is surrounded by massive mountain ranges and ice fields.
Enjoy any number of land and water activities including boating, fishing, skiing, hiking close to town, and many more recreational sports such as snowshoeing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and glacier hiking at two provincial parks nearby. Tatshenshini-Alsek Park is best known for its river system, while Atlin Provincial Park includes Atlin Lake, many more though smaller lakes, and melting glaciers. The town also boasts a diverse range of artists and a rich history of gold mining.
About Town
The busiest time in Atlin for locals and visitors is summer. The town's population – a mix of miners, artists, bush pilots, naturalists, trappers, professionals, and retired academics – drops to almost half during the winter months. Amenities in Atlin include few accommodations, two grocery stores, and some small shops and artist studios, a laundromat, an ATM, a gas station, a post office and a liquor store.
The population here is older – most residents are over the age of 45 – and about one-third is Aboriginal. Most of the local Tlingit First Nations live on the Five Mile Reserve, also called ‘Bend in the Elbow Reserve' about 10km/5mi out of town.
The town has the oldest board of trade in the province, yet remains unincorporated, meaning it has no official governing body. Instead, it has the Atlin Community Improvement District, which was created in January 2009. Committed and engaged citizens and hard-working volunteers are what make this town run and survive.
Nearby Yukon and Alaska
Due to Atlin's remoteness from the rest of BC – more than 250km/155mi – the community feels more connected to the Yukon and Alaska. Many community and regional groups such as First Nation societies and the education system are linked across the border.
Whitehorse in the Yukon, about two plus hours north, is Atlin's service centre. That's where residents access doctors, dentists, lawyers, entertainment, and more. Many residents drive to the Yukon at least once every week or two to stock up on groceries and other supplies.
Where to Begin
For information on things to do in the area, visit the visitor booth in the Atlin Museum when it's open in the summer. Here, visitors can ask the museum manager questions about the area and its activities, and pick up brochures for individual businesses including tour operators.
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