Yukon Travel Guide (Northern Canada/Canada/North America)

Yukon, located in Northern Canada, is a breathtaking destination that promises an unforgettable experience to visitors. From natural wonders to cultural attractions, outdoor adventures to local cuisines, this place has it all. This comprehensive travel guide to Yukon is designed to help you plan a perfect adventure in this unspoiled, wild expanse.

Introduction to Yukon

Yukon has a rich history that dates back to its indigenous people. This territory is bordered by Alaska to the west, British Columbia to the south, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. Its vast, open spaces and rugged terrain boast strikingly beautiful scenery year-round.

List of Places to Visit in Yukon

This section will highlight the must-visit places in Yukon.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you want to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Yukon, you cannot skip visiting its museums and historical places. The highlights are:

MacBride Museum, Whitehorse
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Dawson City Museum and Historical Society
SS Klondike National Historic Site, Whitehorse

Natural Attractions of Yukon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From snow-covered mountains and glaciers to crystal clear lakes and rivers, Yukon’s natural attractions never fail to impress visitors. Some of the must-visit outdoor adventures and scenic views are:

Emerald Lake, Carcross
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Yukon Wildlife Preserve, Whitehorse
Tombstone Territorial Park, Dawson City
Northern Lights

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yukon

Yukon is a hiker’s paradise with an extensive network of trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, these routes offer an awe-inspiring view of the wild landscape. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes include:

Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site, Whitehorse
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Sky High Wilderness Ranch, Whitehorse
Fish Lake Trail, Whitehorse

Best Things to Do in Yukon: Activities and Tours

Yukon is home to a wide array of activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Yukon:

Dog Sledding Tours, Whitehorse
Canoe Adventures on the Yukon River, Whitehorse
Wildlife Viewing and Photography Tours, Dawson City
Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Yukon

This section will provide you with a week-long itinerary that highlights the best places to visit and the most exciting activities to do in Yukon.

Day 1	Whitehorse: Visit MacBride Museum, Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre and S.S. Klondike National Historic Site
Day 2	Drive the South Klondike Highway to Carcross, Visit Emerald Lake, hike the Carcross Desert
Day 3	Kluane National Park and Reserve: Go on a guided glacier trek, bird watching and hiking.
Day 4	Dawson City: Gold rush history, Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall, Dawson City Museum
Day 5	Tombstone Territorial Park: Hiking and Wildlife Watching
Day 6	Northern lights tour, Caribou Crossing Trading Post Visit and Dog Sledding
Day 7	Day of relaxation, or biking the Fish Lake Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Yukon

Yukon has a unique culinary culture that reflects the region’s long history, delicious dishes, and local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

Arctic Char, fried or grilled
Bannock (flatbread), a staple of indigenous cuisine
Moose Stew or Caribou Chili
Yukon Gold Potato pancakes
Wild berries, including blueberries, cranberries, and cloudberries

Local Beverages

Yukon Gold Beer: A distinctive taste of Yukon!
Fireweed Tea: A light and refreshing aromatic tea made from Fireweed flowers.
Spruce Tip Beer: It is brewed with the tips of spruce tree boughs.
Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights, a drink made mixing blue curacao with beer or cider.

Where to Stay in Yukon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yukon has some excellent options for accommodations. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you will find something for every preference. Here are our top picks across the territory:

Westmark Whitehorse Hotel & Conference Center, Whitehorse
Tagish Wilderness Lodge, Tagish
Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Whitehorse
Sundog Retreat, Whitehorse

What to Buy in Yukon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Yukon has a wide range of unique souvenirs and products which are perfect for keeping as a memory of your adventurous trip. Some recommended products include:

Mammoth Ivory and Bone Carvings
Northern Lights Souvenirs, T-shirts, and Clothing
Wild Berry Jams, Jellies, and Syrups
Yukon Gold Nuggets and other gold products

Local Culture and Customs of Yukon

Yukon has a rich culture and history, which is deeply rooted in its indigenous population. It is home to the indigenous people of the First Nations, and many cultural events are organized throughout the year that showcases their traditions, games and practices.

Best Time to Visit Yukon

Yukon is a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on your interest and preference. June to September is ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. October to March, when it is dark, is the prime time for northern lights viewing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yukon

Do:

Respect the local culture and traditions
Prepare for outdoor activities and pack accordingly with durable clothing, waterproof shoes, and insect repellent.
Carry bear spray when you’re hiking or camping in the wilderness.

Don’t:

Litter and leave trash that could harm nature or wildlife.
Disturb the wildlife. Keep a safe distance, and if animals come close, do not provoke or feed them.
Ignore safety precautions and instructions on guided tours and activities.

Safety and Health

Yukon is a safe destination for travelers, but you still need to follow some precautions, especially when you are exploring the wilderness. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Yukon

Always carry bear spray when you’re hiking or camping in the wilderness.
Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in the mountains.

Health in Yukon

Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration in the dry climate.
Apply sunscreen and protect your skin from the cold weather.

Getting to Yukon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yukon

Whitehorse International Airport, Whitehorse

Bus Stations Near Yukon

Whitehorse Bus Station, Whitehorse

Other Options

Ferry from Haines to Skagway, Alaska
Driving in via British Columbia

How to Get Around Yukon

The best way to explore Yukon is by car, and it’s easy to rent vehicles from major cities. There are also flights and bus services available for traveling within the territory.

Where to Go Next from Yukon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Yukon is located in the heart of western Canada, surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful destinations that you should explore. Here are some of the best nearby destinations:

Fairbanks, Alaska
Jasper and Banff, Alberta
Vancouver, British Columbia

Conclusion

Yukon is a bucket list destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. From natural wonders to cultural attractions, outdoor adventures to local cuisines, this territory has everything you could want. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to Yukon, and you will have the time of your life!