Find the status of the ice bridge in Dawson

The Government of Yukon builds and maintains an ice bridge in Dawson. This bridge connects the city and West Dawson during the winter and spring.

The ice bridge typically operates from late December or early January to April. Exact dates are dependent on weather conditions.

Current status

The ice bridge is currently closed.

The Government of Yukon continues to monitor the conditions of the Yukon River in Dawson. While the river continues to show signs of ice formation, there is still not enough ice to construct a bridge at this time. It remains a priority this winter to provide a reliable means of crossing the river.

Emergency services are accessible for West Dawson residents by phoning 9-1-1. Virtual health appointments and other health resources online are also available to residents, including:

  • 24/7 health advice by phoning 8-1-1; and
  • virtual health appointments with a doctor.

To find information on the status of the Dawson ice bridge, you can:

  • check this page regularly to read the status reports;
  • follow Highways and Public Works on Facebook or X; or
  • check 511 Yukon using the website, mobile app or phoning 5-1-1.

Yukon River conditions

  • The ice jam where the Klondike River and Yukon River meet has made the usual freeze-up take longer than usual.
  • There is currently a section of open water from Dawson to Moosehide and from Moosehide to just north of Fort Reliance.
  • The river needs long periods of cold weather to encourage ice to form.
  • The current ice formation conditions are uncommon, but they have been seen in the past, such as in 2018-19 and 2013-14.

Stay safe

Avoid crossing the river by any method until the ice bridge is in place. Crossing the river before the ice bridge is in place is dangerous and could lead to injury or death.

2022-23

Opening dates

  • Light duty vehicles (5,000 kilograms) – January 5, 2023
  • Heavy duty vehicles (40,000 kilograms) – February 2, 2023

Closing date

April 20, 2023

2021-22

Opening dates

  • Light duty vehicles (5,000 kilograms) – December 13, 2021
  • Heavy duty vehicles (40,000 kilograms) – January 8, 2022

Closing date

April 20, 2022

2020-21

Opening dates

  • Light duty vehicles (5,000 kilograms) – December 14, 2020
  • Heavy duty vehicles (40,000 kilograms) – January 6, 2021

Closing date

April 15, 2021

Contact: 

For any questions or concerns about the Dawson City ice bridge, contact hpw-info@yukon.ca.