Natural
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
Photo : AWWE83 (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located across the border between Canada and the United States in the northwestern region of North America, this international natural site encompasses four protected areas that form a continuous mountain and glacier wilderness. The site is characterized by extensive ice fields, dramatic peaks, and complex glacial systems that represent significant examples of subarctic and arctic ecosystems. The landscape includes some of the largest non-polar ice masses in North America, along with diverse terrain ranging from coastal rainforests to alpine environments. The geological and geomorphological processes evident in the site, including active glaciation and mountain formation, provide valuable opportunities for scientific study and understanding of natural systems. The area supports wildlife populations adapted to its varied habitats and demonstrates the interaction between climatic systems and terrestrial environments in high-altitude regions.