Explore The Yukon
Among the many stunning lakes in Yukon, Kluane Lake stands out as a crown jewel, often regarded as the best in the region. The lake is renowned for its strikingly clear blue waters, which mirror the surrounding ice-capped Saint Elias Mountains, creating a mesmerizing and picturesque landscape.
Kluane Lake is a feast for the eyes and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers exceptional opportunities for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with its waters teeming with lake trout and Arctic grayling. The area around the lake is a paradise for hikers, with trails ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks leading to panoramic views.
Interesting Facts about The Yukon
01
Size and Population
Despite being the smallest of Canada’s three federal territories, the Yukon is still quite large, covering about 482,443 square kilometers. However, it has a relatively small population, with only about 40,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated regions in the world.
02
Gold Rush
The Yukon is perhaps best known for the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. In 1896, local miners discovered gold in Bonanza Creek, leading to one of the world’s greatest gold rushes, which brought tens of thousands of prospectors to the Yukon.
03
Dempster Highway
This highway is Canada’s only all-weather road to cross the Arctic Circle. It’s a popular route for adventurers seeking to experience the Arctic landscape.
Must See Attractions
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Nature & Parks
Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning wilderness, encompassing icefields, mountains, and wildlife.
Takhini Hot Springs
Nature & Parks
Takhini Hot Springs offers a serene escape with its natural hot springs, providing visitors with a unique and rejuvenating experience surrounded by the beauty of the northern wilderness.
S.S. Klondike National Historic Site
Speciality Museums
The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site in Whitehorse stands as a testament to the Yukon’s rich riverboat era. It showcases a restored sternwheeler, a remnant of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Lakes to Explore
1. Lake Laberge
Immortalized in Robert Service’s poetry, Lake Laberge is known for its expansive beauty, long shorelines, and role in the Klondike Gold Rush’s history.
2. Marsh Lake
Marsh Lake is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It provides a serene environment for birdwatching and water activities amidst the marshes and scenic landscapes.
3. Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake captivates with its stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting.
4. Tagish Lake
Tagish Lake is renowned for its scenic beauty, pristine waters, ample opportunities for boating and fishing, and peaceful escape.
5. Atlin Lake
Atlin Lake is the largest natural lake in the province. Its pristine waters are surrounded by majestic mountains, providing a remote and awe-inspiring escape.
6. Dezadeash Lake
Dezadeash Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking and has stunning vistas of the surrounding wilderness.
7. Kluane Lake
Kluane Lake is known for its breathtaking mountainous backdrop, crystal clear waters, and the opportunity to bird-watch along its shores.
8. Frances Lake
Frances Lake offers a secluded retreat for camping and fishing. It is surrounded by dense forests and is an ideal spot for wildlife observation.
Where to Sleep
Annual Events and Festivals
February 1, 2025
Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race
The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race, renowned as one of the world’s most challenging sled dog races, is a remarkable test of endurance and skill. Covering over 1,000 miles of rugged terrain, the race stretches from Whitehorse, Yukon, to Fairbanks, Alaska, traversing the harsh and stunning landscapes of the North American wilderness. Held annually in February, a time when conditions are particularly formidable due to extreme cold, deep snow, and long hours of darkness, the Yukon Quest demands unparalleled perseverance from both human and canine athletes. The race follows historical Gold Rush and mail delivery dog sled routes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adding a significant historical dimension to the event.
June 2025
Yukon Riverside Arts Festival
The Yukon Riverside Arts Festival, an annual gathering in the historic and charming town of Dawson City, serves as a vibrant showcase of creativity and artistic expression in the heart of the Yukon. This multi-disciplinary event, typically held in the warmth of the summer months, draws together a diverse array of artists, craftspeople, musicians, and performers, celebrating the rich tapestry of artistic talent found within the Yukon and beyond. The charming streets of Dawson City, steeped in Klondike Gold Rush history, become a canvas for this artistic outpouring, with galleries, outdoor venues, and unconventional spaces hosting exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
TBA 2025
Adäka Cultural Festival
The annual Adäka Cultural Festival in Whitehorse celebrates the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures that thrive in the Yukon. This unique event offers Indigenous artists, performers, and storytellers a platform to showcase their talents and share the traditions, languages, and stories passed down through generations. From traditional dances and drumming performances to contemporary visual arts and crafts, the Adäka Cultural Festival provides a dynamic and immersive experience that fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous heritage.
Top Hiking Trails
King’s Throne Peak
Destruction Bay, Yukon
The King’s Throne Peak is a 12.7-kilometer trail in the Yukon. It is a captivating hiking adventure in the stunning Kluane National Park and Reserve. Offering a challenging yet rewarding experience, the trail guides hikers through the raw beauty of the wilderness, with panoramic views of rugged mountains, pristine alpine lakes, and expansive glaciers. Named after the prominent peak dominating the landscape, the trail weaves through subalpine forests, revealing a diverse flora and fauna. As hikers ascend, the scenery transforms into a dramatic alpine environment, with King’s Throne Peak standing majestically against the sky.
Sheep Creek Trail
Ä’äy Chù (Slim’s River) West Trailhead, Kluane national park and reserve, Yukon
Sheep Creek Trail, located in the beautiful Yukon Territory, offers outdoor enthusiasts a serene and picturesque hiking experience. As hikers traverse the well-maintained 12-kilometer trail, they encounter the gentle murmur of Sheep Creek and are surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a tranquil ambiance. The trail provides an opportunity to witness the region’s rich biodiversity, with glimpses of wildlife and various bird species. The journey’s highlight is reaching the scenic viewpoint overlooking the Takhini River Valley, where the breathtaking landscapes unfold before the eyes.
Grizzly Lake Trail
Grizzly Lake Trailhead, Dempster Hwy, Yukon
Grizzly Lake Trail, situated in Tombstone Territorial Park’s remote and rugged wilderness in the Yukon, is a captivating trek that beckons adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Winding through a pristine alpine landscape marked by jagged peaks, expansive tundra, and crystal clear lakes, the 22-kilometer trail presents a challenging yet rewarding journey. As hikers ascend, panoramic views unfold, showcasing the beauty of the Tombstone Range. The trail culminates at the shores of Grizzly Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers.
Best Golf Courses
Meadow Lakes Golf Club
18 Alusru Way, Whitehorse, Yukon
Meadow Lakes Golf Club offers a unique and scenic golfing experience that stands out in the world of northern golf courses. Nestled amidst the natural splendor of the Yukon’s landscapes, this golf club provides an idyllic setting for all skill-level golfers. The course’s layout presents various challenges, including strategic water hazards and bunkers, ensuring an engaging round for golf enthusiasts.
Mountain View Golf Club
250 Skookum Dr, Whitehorse, Yukon
Located in the capital city of Whitehorse, this golf club boasts a course that harmoniously integrates with the surrounding mountains, offering stunning views of the Yukon River Valley and distant peaks. The well-designed fairways wind through the land’s natural contours, providing an engaging and challenging round of golf for players of all levels. The meticulously maintained course features manicured greens and fairways framed by the rugged Yukon wilderness.
Dawson City Golf Course
Golf Course Rd, Dawson City, Yukon
This 9-hole course, set against a backdrop of stunning northern landscapes, provides a relaxed and enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels. Characterized by its natural, rugged layout, the course blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, featuring rolling fairways and greens that challenge players while providing a scenic journey through the beauty of the Klondike region. The course is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly, welcoming staff, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Water Sports
Up North Adventures
Fishing
Fishing in the Yukon is an extraordinary experience, offering anglers a chance to delve into some of North America’s most pristine and untouched wilderness areas. The region’s vast network of rivers, lakes, and streams is teeming with a rich diversity of fish, including Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and several species of Salmon. For those seeking a guided fishing adventure, Up North Adventures is a reputable company that offers a range of fishing charters and expeditions. Based in Whitehorse, they provide expertly guided trips that cater to both novice and experienced anglers. Their knowledgeable guides lead you to the best fishing spots and share insights into the local ecology and history.
Kanoe People Ltd.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking in the Yukon offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning natural beauty of this vast and wild territory. The region’s numerous rivers, lakes, and waterways provide kayakers with various new environments, from serene, glassy lakes to swiftly flowing rivers. Paddlers can immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness, enjoying unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, dense forests, and expansive tundra. For those looking to embark on a kayaking adventure in the Yukon, Kanoe People Ltd. is a highly recommended company offering rentals and guided tours. They are located in Whitehorse and are well-equipped to cater to beginners, experienced canoers, and kayakers.
Tatshenshini and Alsek
Whitewater Rafting
Rafting in the Yukon promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure amid some of North America’s most breathtaking and untouched landscapes. The Yukon’s pristine rivers, including the Tatshenshini and Alsek, offer thrilling whitewater experiences suitable for all levels of rafters. One standout company facilitating these exhilarating adventures is Tatshenshini Expediting. Based in Haines Junction, this outfitter specializes in guided rafting tours that immerse participants in the wild beauty of the Yukon’s waterways. Tatshenshini Expediting provides expertly guided trips, ensuring an unforgettable journey through challenging rapids surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and diverse wildlife.
Resorts to Explore
Southern Lakes Resort & Restaurant
Lakefront, Recreational
1702 Ten Mile Road, Tagish, Yukon Y0B 1T0
Inn On The Lake
Lakefront, Recreational
Lot 76 McClintock Place, Yukon Y1A 7A1
Tagish Wilderness Lodge
Lakefront, Recreational
108 Elliott Street Suite 204, Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 6C4
Tips on Vacationing in the Yukon
Dress Appropriately
The weather in Yukon can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Bring waterproof and warm clothing, especially if you plan to visit during the colder months.
Learn About the Culture and History
Yukon has a rich First Nations culture and Klondike Gold Rush history. Visit cultural centers, museums, and historical sites to deepen your understanding of the area.
Aurora Borealis
If you’re visiting for the Northern Lights, plan to stay a few nights to increase your chances of a sighting. Winter nights in Yukon offer some of the best aurora viewing in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yukon
While staying in a Yukon vacation rental, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty. Some top attractions include Kluane National Park and Reserve, the SS Klondike National Historic Site, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, the Takhini Hot Springs, and the scenic drive along the South Klondike Highway. Remember to visit the capital city of Whitehorse, which offers a range of historical and cultural attractions as well as shopping and dining options.
You can use popular platforms like Lake, HomeToGo, or TripAdvisor to book a vacation rental in Yukon. You’ll need to create an account, search for properties in your desired location, and filter based on your preferences (amenities, pet-friendly, price, etc.). Once you find a suitable property, follow the online booking process, including any required communication with the property owner or host.
Yes, some vacation rentals in Yukon offer pet-friendly accommodations. However, it is always recommended that you check with the property owner or rental agency before booking to ensure your furry friend is welcome, and any related fees or rules are understood.
Yukon vacation rentals offer various amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Standard amenities include fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, and outdoor spaces like patios or balconies. More high-end rentals may offer additional features like waterfront views, private beach access, or ski-in/ski-out options at Mount Sima, the biggest ski resort in the Yukon.
When looking for a cabin to rent in the Yukon, you should consider popular areas such as Whitehorse and Marsh Lake. These areas offer spectacular views and comfortable cabins that provide a memorable stay. For example, you can find rentals like the Inn On The Lake in Marsh Lake and a Beautiful Cabin with a Spectacular View in Whitehorse.
Yukon is among the best places to view the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The best time to see them is during the winter, from late November to early April when the nights are longer and darker.
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