Twisted Trees – West Dawson’s Strange Aspen Grove

Hidden across the river from Dawson City is a small stand of trembling aspens that grow in unusual spirals and curves. Known locally as the Twisted Trees, this grove sits along the Orchid Acres Interpretive Trail in West Dawson and is one of the area’s quiet natural curiosities.

Where to Find Them

The twisted aspens are located along a short forest loop at Orchid Acres, on the West Dawson side of the Yukon River.

Directions

• Take the George Black Ferry across the river.
  
• Drive 3.7 km up the Top of the World Highway.
  
• Turn left onto Sunnydale Road.
  
• Continue 1.3 km to a small parking pullout on the right.
  
• The trailhead is directly across the road on the left.

Signage can be subtle — pass the golf course road and look for the Sunnydale turn-off marked for Orchid Acres. The trail is an easy 2 km loop through mixed boreal forest with viewpoints over the Yukon and Klondike rivers.

Why Are the Trees Twisted?

Most trembling aspens grow straight, but in this pocket of forest many have trunks that twist like ropes. Several natural forces may contribute:

• Snow Loading – Heavy winter snow can bend young aspens, causing the trunk to twist as it grows upright again.
  
• Strong Slope Winds – Persistent winds on sloped terrain can influence growth patterns over many years.
  
• Genetics – Some aspen clones naturally tend toward spiral growth.

The likely cause is a combination unique to this site, making the grove noticeably different from the surrounding forest.

What to Expect on the Trail

Orchid Acres features a series of interpretive panels, including the original Twisted Trees sign. Walking the trail lets you stand among the curved trunks, compare them to nearby straight aspens, and see how wind, snow, slope, and soil shape the landscape.

Along the loop, you’ll also find:

• River viewpoints overlooking the Yukon and Klondike
  
• Wildflower displays in early summer
  
• Orchid patches later in the season
  
• A peaceful, lightly visited forest walk

The trail is best enjoyed from May to September, depending on ferry operations.