Chu Cho is the Northern Tutchone name meaning “Big Water.”
During the 2024 paddle season, I celebrated my milestone 50th birthday by paddling over 50 Yukon lakes. I gathered insights and details about each lake to create the 50 Lakes Yukon guidebook, which is now available for purchase in local shops. As part of this summer series, I’m highlighting various Yukon lakes, each with their unique and notable features. For those looking for a lake destination to feel the wonder of a big lake with a small lake personality, consider taking the short trip to Chu Cho (Little Salmon Lake).
Within the Traditional Territory of the Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation and the Kaska Dena Council lies the long and narrow Little Salmon Lake. Chu Cho is the Northern Tutchone name meaning “Big Water.” Centrally located between Carmacks and Faro, the lake stretches 33 kilometres in length from east to west along the Robert Campground Highway. It features territorial campgrounds on both ends, with several residences, cottages and First Nations cultural sites in-between.
While not among the largest of Yukon’s lakes, Little Salmon should not be underestimated; the water temperature can dip below 12°C even in mid-summer, and sudden winds and waves are common. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting Chu Cho. The lake lacks coves or islands, offering clear views to both ends, and the surrounding landscapes are awe inspiring.
If you’re looking for a specific destination or place of interest for a paddle outing, you’ll find a wonderful rocky outcrop along the shoreline 3.4 kilometres east of the Little Salmon Campground. Starting from the campground beach, head left to paddle east along the shoreline. The rock wall is fascinating with its swirling textures and geological patterns.
The lake is a Special Management Waters Area, as a popular fishing destination located near the communities of Carmacks and Faro. The main fish species here include lake trout, northern pike and Arctic grayling.
Chu Cho receives water from the Magundy River and Drury Creek to the east and north, draining westward into the Little Salmon River, which in turn flows into the Yukon River. Enjoy the scenic views of the Little Salmon Range to the north, Truitt Peak at the northeast corner, Snowcap Mountain to the south at the west end, and Mount Lokken at the east end.
It’s a real treat to have two lakeside campgrounds to choose from—Little Salmon Campground, located at kilometre 501 of the Robert Campbell Highway, and Drury Creek at kilometre 469. Both campgrounds feature boat launches, docks, picnic shelters and lakeside campsites. For those looking for accessible camping, Chu Cho (Little Salmon Lake) offers accessible campsites and an outhouse, and Drury Creek has an accessible outhouse.
The distance to Little Salmon Campground from Whitehorse is 263 kilometres, with a drive time of three hours. From Carmacks, the drive time is about an hour. To reach the Drury Creek Campground, add another half hour of drive time.
