Perhaps best known for the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush, Yukon is a land of pristine wilderness where moose outnumber people by two to one and the Aurora Borealis is a sight to behold. Filled with stunning national parks, spectacular wildlife and vast mountainous terrain, the Yukon is a perfect year-round destination.
The stunning wilderness of Kluane National Park
With the exception of two two-lane highways and a few small communities, nearly the entire Kluane region is wilderness. It is a beautiful, untouched, wild playground waiting to be explored.
The star of the show is Kluane National Park and Reserve where visitors often see bears, Dall sheep and mountain goats. The park’s boundary nears the shore of beautiful Kluane Lake, where you can drop a line in and see if the fish are biting. Or try your luck at Kathleen Lake, a favourite with Yukoners who are happy to chat and maybe even share their fishing tips—although they’ll likely insist you keep it secret.
Wildlife in Whitehorse
The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is an outstanding opportunity to discover some of the most majestic mammals on the continent. About a half-hour drive from downtown Whitehorse, the property is home to several northern species like massive wood bison, the largest mammal in North America. See muskoxen, elk, caribou, thinhorn sheep, moose and mountain goats, along with smaller mammals like Arctic foxes and Canada lynx. With over 700 acres on the preserve, the animals go about their day in their various natural habitats. Climb on board a bus for the five-kilometre loop around the preserve or take the self-guided walking tour. Whatever option you choose, it’s amazing wildlife viewing—guaranteed.
Klondike First Nations Culture
The original story of the Klondike is preserved as oral history that has been passed down for countless centuries. The heritage of the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in First Nation continues to be a meaningful part of the Klondike region’s fabric. You’ll see their artwork, hear their language and have opportunities to experience this vibrant culture. First Nations cultural centres are a chance to explore further, learn the early stories and see how traditions are preserved and woven into the way of life today.
Explore further with authentic experiences like river trips between Carmacks and Dawson City and past the culturally significant site of Moosehide Village. Keep an eye out for wildlife from the water, see a fish wheel in action, visit a traditional fish camp and stop by the Fort Selkirk Historic Site—a truly unforgettable experience.
Natural wonders
If mesmerising ribbons of colour swirling across the sky sounds like a must-see, the Yukon has you covered; visit and you’ll experience the northern lights, one of the great natural wonders of the world.
In the Yukon, the northern lights can appear as soon as dark night skies begin to return. That means you’ll often see dancing, shimmering lights before the first snowfall. Autumn shades can mean brilliant golds by day and spellbinding auroras by night—talk about great fall colours!
Winter brings many months and plenty of ways to view this natural phenomenon. Shed your winter layers and sink into an outdoor hot tub to watch for the jades, greens and purples to appear. Curl up by the window of a cosy cabin, or tuck into a welcoming lodge with amenities, exceptional dining and lots of activities. If you want to do something really special, take a snowmobile or dogsled ride out to the remote wilderness, where you can watch by the warmth of a crackling campfire.
