With the Alaska Highway turning 75 years old, 2017 is the perfect time to take a road trip along this scenic and historic byway built during WWII. Here are some of the well-known and lesser known things to see and do along the Alaska Highway in the Yukon.
1. Look for the sign: The tradition of adding signs to the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake got its start during the earliest days of the Alaska Highway’s construction when a US Army Soldier posted his home town sign of Danville, Illinois. Now, the Forest counts over 72,000! If you don’t have one with you, don’t fret, you can make your own at the Watson Lake Visitor Information Centre.
2. Go fish!: There’s easy access to many great fishing opportunities along the Alaska Highway. Stocked lake varieties include Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden and Arctic Char. Before you cast, make sure that you pick up a Yukon fishing licence and a copy of the Yukon Fishing Regulations Summary. If you are more of an observer, head to the Whitehorse Fishladder to learn about the Chinook Salmon run.
3. See the Aurora up close: The Aurora Borealis has fascinated and inspired humans for ages. If you are travelling the highway between late-August to mid-April your chances of seeing the aurora’s dancing colours are more likely. But if you are here during the summer months, you can always visit the Northern Lights Centre. This interpretive centre in Watson Lake features a northern lights show with panoramic video and surround sound.
4. Wander up to a wooly mammoth: Quite literally! Before you even set foot inside the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, a cluster of wooly mammoths greet you outside. Once indoors, you can find out about ice age Beringia and the assortment of ancient animals, like the giant short-faced bear and the Jefferson’s ground sloth, that used to roam the area.
5. Take a hike!: You can access a number of trails, ranging from easy to more difficult, steps from the highway. At the Rancheria Falls Recreation Site, there’s an easy, 10-minute walking path to the river and falls. Beautiful Miles Canyon, located near Whitehorse, has an easy walking trail along Schwatka Lake and a suspension bridge that crosses the canyon. Looking for a little bit more of a challenge? Head to Kluane National Park and Reserve where trails range from an hour long to multiple days.
6. Go where the wild things are: Whether you see them along the highway or learn more about them from the comfort of an interpretive centre, the Alaska Highway is brimming with wildlife, including wood bison, bear, sheep and caribou. Stop at the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre between early April to early May to witness the return of the trumpeter swans. The Tachäl Dhäl Visitor Centre, north of Haines Junction, offers wildlife interpretation and Dall sheep viewing opportunities while the Kluane Museum of Natural History in Burwash Landing has exhibits on 70 species of Yukon wildlife.
7. Learn about our First Nations culture: From the George Johnston Museum and Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre in Teslin to the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre in Whitehorse and the Da Kų Cultural Centre in Haines Junction, there are many opportunities to learn about the fascinating histories of Yukon’s first peoples.
8. See the highest peak in Canada: The highest peak in Canada calls Kluane National Park and Reserve home. Rising 5,959 metres, Mount Logan's circumference at its base is the largest of all mountains on Earth. Although Mount Logan is not visible from the highway, flightseeing trips that depart from Haines Junction will get you a glimpse of the famed peak and its surrounding ice fields.
9. Get to know the history: Interpretive panels dot the Alaska Highway, explaining the natural and cultural history of the area. You can set foot on the Continental Divide, visit the ancient site of Champagne, a former trading spot for first nations of the region, explore the old ghost town of Silver City, and take the short trail up to Soldier’s Summit, the location where the Alaska Highway was officially opened.
10. Meet you at the market: Stopping by the Fireweed Community Market in Whitehorse is not only a chance to savour home-grown goods from goat cheese to jelly to farm-fresh veggies, you can pick up hand-crafted jewellery, soaps and homewares too. In the summer, the market takes place every Thursday from 3pm to 8pm at Shipyards Park on the banks of the Yukon River. Bring your picnic blanket!
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