Our Country, My Canada: Yukon Bucket List

Though it is the smallest of Canada’s three federal territories (and, coincidentally, the westernmost) this mighty region can be heaven for the adventure traveler in you. The adrenaline of the Gold Rush is not gone, with many activities and destinations that harken back to this colorful time in North America’s rich history. If you feel the call of the wild calling your name, don’t pass up the chance to explore the Yukon! We’ve got 10 must-see things for your next trip to the Yukon.

1. Take a dip in a natural hot spring

Just outside the border of Whitehorse sits one of the most visited locations in all of the Yukon. In operation for over 100 years, Takhini Hot Springs is home to two pools which sit year round at a relaxing 36 degrees and 42 degrees Celsius (96.8 degrees and 107.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The water is all natural and rich in minerals. You can even view the Northern Lights from the pools! Takhini hosts a number of unique events, including the Yukon Escape Games and an international hair-freezing contest. The objective? Create the most creative, frozen hairdo possible. Will you be crowned champion?

2. Step aboard a piece of history

Until the mid-twentieth century, sternwheelers navigated the waters between Whitehorse and Dawson City. Operated by the British Yukon Navigation Company, these mighty vessels traversed the Yukon River with pride, and the largest was the S.S. Klondike. When a highway was finally constructed to connect the two cities, the Klondike found herself out of a job. Thankfully, Parks Canada meticulously restored and refurnished this Yukon beauty. Today, she sits proudly on the banks of the river she used to champion for visitors to explore and learn about this unique time in Canadian history. 

3. Witness the shimmering beauty of the Northern Lights

Whether you view them on foot or bathing in a natural hot spring, the Northern Lights are a must-see for anyone visiting Yukon. Each fall, the gorgeous, jagged strips of color ornament the night sky with shimmering, neon shades. The Lights are dependent on auroral activity and the clarity of the skies, so no two Northern Lights shows are alike. Each is special and unique.

4. Support the Arts in Yukon

While in Whitehorse, take in a stirring show or browse insightful artwork displays at the Yukon Arts Centre. This not for profit charitable organization is “dedicated to the development of the arts as an important cultural, social and economic force in the Yukon.” This modern and well-appointed centre is providing access to the arts for all people in the Yukon, and presents work of territorial, national and international importance.

5. Relive the Klondike Gold Rush

On the banks of the Yukon River sits a city with First Nations heritage and Gold Rush history flowing through its veins. Dawson City has held onto its wild-west look and feel, and offers plenty of opportunity to experience what life was like in the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush. Learn about gold mining, explore the city’s unique arts culture or get in a round of golf in this scenic region. You can even experience a daily vaudeville show inspired by Gertie Lovejoy, one of the town’s most famous dance hall stars from the Gold Rush era, at Diamond Tooth Gertie’s, Canada’s oldest casino. It is like taking a step back in time with its unique Klondike period style! This town has a lot of heart and a strong community spirit that begs to be explored.

6. Experience the rush of dog sledding

Feel the rush of this unique method of travel when you book a dog sledding excursion! Joined by your cheerful guide and his friendly team, you’ll see the scenic expanses of the Yukon like never before. The dogs provide the lively soundtrack to your excursion as they zip you across the snow doing what they love most. Who wouldn’t want to spend their afternoon with a pack of sociable Huskies?

7. Explore the beauty of Kluane National Park and Reserve

In an area where every sight has something rugged and inspiring, Kluane National Park and Reserve is certainly something to see. Hikers love this park, with both marked and less defined routes to explore. This park is even home to Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak! Wildlife is in no shortage in this remarkable United Nations World Heritage Site. Its scenery is made up of peaks, glaciers, nonpolar ice fields (the world’s largest), and lakes with crystal clear waters. Not a hiker? No problem! This park is also a great place to fish, boat, or even have a picnic. Now that’s a meal with a view!

8. Get in touch with your inner aquamanic

The Yukon is home to 70 wilderness rivers and many lakes, making water sports a must. For those who like it on the calmer side, try paddling, canoeing or kayaking. With four designated Canadian Heritage Rivers, this scenic region presents a once-in-a-lifetime paddling experience. Like your water on the wilder side? Try whitewater rafting down one of the many rivers, like the Alsek, Tatshenshini or Firth. Lucky rafters may spot a caribou crossing the water or calving glaciers, to name a few natural wonders in this picturesque land.

9. Cruise the Yukon River

If you seek a more luxurious way to see the Yukon by water, try a paddlewheeler cruise down the Yukon River! This unique transportation pairs decadence with history as you take in the breathtaking landscape all around. Narrated tours turn this experience into a relaxing history lesson, or book a dinner cruise to add even more to the journey. Traveling back in time never tasted so good!

10. Whitehorse

Mentioned throughout this bucket list, Whitehorse is the territorial capital and the perfect place to start your Yukon adventure. Tucked in the Whitehorse Valley, the town has a milder climate than its northern contemporaries. Winter days are short, but summer days can have up to 19 hours of daylight! You’ll need all that time to pack in everything this town has to offer! Book your stay at the Best Western Gold Rush Inn and experience the Yukon today.