Periglacial features associated with permafrost-affected (Cryosolic) soils in the Yukon Territory

Cryoturbation (frost chruning).

Cryoturbation, or frost churning, refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of soil that disrupts and mixes horizons, creating irregular, patterned, and distorted soil structures characteristic of cold‑climate landscapes.

Ice Wedges

Ice Wedges. This ice wedge is dark colored because dirt and dust become concentrated as the snow and ice melt. This ice wedge is probably a remnant of a previous ice age.

Massive Ground Ice

Massive Ground Ice. Soil can develop on top of melting snow and ice. Ground ice can also form within soil in the form of horizontal ice lenses and vertical ice wedges.

Patterned ground (sorted nets)

Patterned ground (sorted nets). Rock and rubble accumulates along the edge of sorted nets.

Polygonal ground (ice wedge polygons).

A permafrost land surface patterned into distinct geometric shapes formed by ice wedge growth, reflecting repeated freeze–thaw cracking that strongly influences soil structure, drainage, and vegetation.