Surficial geological mapping in the central Kluane Ranges was undertaken to better understand the distribution and character of surficial materials. Upland surficial materials in the area are dominated by near-source bedrock derivatives. Valley bottom settings, including Shakwak trench and Duke River valley, are characterized by broad open valleys with thick deposits of Quaternary sediment. Permafrost is discontinuous in the study area and its character is affected by slope and aspect, topography and material texture. Mass wasting processes in the study area include rock fall and avalanches, debris flows and avalanches and active layer detachment slides. The distribution and character of surficial materials has significance for soil geochemical sampling programs and infrastructure and implications for mineral exploration and developments are addressed.
