Stunning mountain views and countless adventures await in the Yukon Territory.

For those seeking an escape from the bustle of urban living, the most coveted vacation includes total immersion in the peace and quiet of the outdoors. A wilderness experience that’s both untouched by mass tourism and budget-friendly can be difficult to find — but that’s where Canada’s Yukon Territory comes in.

The Yukon is a northwestern territory in Canada that shares a border with Alaska and is as expansive as Spain, measuring 483,450 km² (or 186,272 square miles). It’s also one of the most underrated and best-kept secret wilderness destinations in the world. The territory offers beautiful forest and mountain views, a plethora of outdoor activities and adventures, and a rich culinary scene, all at affordable prices compared to more well-known and commercialized spots.

Make Whitehorse (Yukon’s capital) a jumping-off point to start your trip, and as you travel throughout the territory, you’ll be struck by the incredible beauty and vastness of the land, as well as the hospitality of locals.

In winter, numerous activities are available, such as cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. In warmer months, camping and hiking are favorite pastimes, along with wildlife viewing. You can also check off a bucket-list item by catching the beautiful Northern Lights — or simply “The Lights,” as Yukoners call them — during the peak months of late August to mid-April.

Below, find our recommendations for accommodations, activities, food, and drink spots while visiting Canada’s self-proclaimed “Wilderness City.”

Getting There

There are many ways to get to the Yukon, but the easiest is by air. Air North (the territory’s airline) has regular departures from major Canadian cities such as Calgary, Ottawa, and Vancouver. International flights can be booked on other major carriers such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Condor — all flights land in Whitehorse.

What to Pack

Pack your suitcase with practicality and the weather in mind. Whether you visit the Yukon in winter, spring, summer, or fall, wearing layers makes it easy to add or remove clothing depending on the conditions. If you need additional guidance, consider utilizing this packing list but make sure to leave your dress shoes at home.

If you need outdoor gear that won’t fit in your suitcase, several outfitters in Whitehorse provide rental clothing and gear. Check out THE BASE and Men’s World.

Tour Operators

The Wilderness City isn’t the type of place where a person should walk out into the great outdoors for a casual stroll unless they’re prepared and informed about their surroundings. Therefore, it’s recommended to book excursions and activities with local tour companies while visiting — your accommodations can also connect you. Tours led by Yukoners come with valuable insights, deep community connections, and enthusiasm for their home. Recommended local operators include Terra Riders, Who What Where Tours, and Epic North Tours.

Accommodations

An array of locally owned accommodations can be found within and beyond the city limits of Whitehorse. Here are several recommendations, from hotels and eco-lodges to luxurious resorts, to consider during your stay.

Edgewater Hotel, Whitehorse

Located in the heart of downtown Whitehorse, the origins of the historic Edgewater Hotel date back to the Klondike Gold Rush. Thirty-three modern guest bedrooms overlook the iconic Yukon River. Complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services are available, as well as onsite dining in its gastro pub, Belly of the Bison — a favorite spot for food lovers in Yukon.

Raven Inn, Whitehorse

Family-owned and locally operated, the Raven Inn opened in 2020 as the newest hotel in decades to be built in Whitehorse. Deluxe rooms, king suites, and luxury apartments are designed in cabin-chic décor, featuring wood paneling and checkered plaid accents. Rooms are furnished with a minimalist touch and include comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Southern Lakes Resort, Tagish

It is worth every effort to drive down a 10-mile road to reach the stunning Southern Lakes Resort, where upon arrival picture-perfect views of Tagish Lake and the Yukon mountains greet you. Here, disconnect and stay in spacious deluxe villas or lakefront cabins that offer modern amenities. Chef Bruno runs the resort’s kitchen and serves a range of mouth-watering meals from schnitzel to prawn curry. Guests can enjoy various seasonal activities through the resort; in winter, dog sledding and snowmobiling, while summer features hiking and fishing.

Mount Logan EcoLodge, Haines Junction

Eco-conscious travelers can get close to Mother Nature at the remote and all-inclusive B&B-style Mount Logan EcoLodge. Located near Mount Logan (Canada’s highest peak), guests can stay in the main lodge or its standalone accommodations such as a rustic yurt, a futuristic pod, or a Gold Rush–style cabin while enjoying scenic views of the mountains.

Food and Drink

The Yukon features a dynamic and eclectic dining scene with deep historical roots. Most establishments are locally owned and operated, proudly sourcing their ingredients from the territory.

Belly of the Bison, Whitehorse

Located inside the Edgewater Hotel, the upscale gastropub Belly of the Bison is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. A dedicated culinary team serves delicious small- and large-plate menu items such as escargot, crispy lobster salad, elk roulade, and bison Bolognese. Additionally, they boast an extensive wine selection and innovative cocktails inspired by the territory.

Craft Beer Breweries, Whitehorse

Yukoners have discerning palates, especially regarding beer. The territory boasts a lively and proud craft beer scene, offering unique flavors inspired by the wilderness spirit. Found in and around Whitehorse, several breweries feature tasting rooms open to the public where you can sample a pint. Breweries to visit include Deep Dark Wood Brewing, Polarity Brewing, Winterlong Brewing, Woodcutter’s Blanket, and Yukon Brewing.

Gather Café and Taphouse, Whitehorse

Tacos in northern Canada may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but once you try Chef Daniela Sibaja’s creations at Gather Café and Taphouse, your taste buds will be delighted. Attached to Lumel Studios, this café offers a range of artfully crafted cocktails served in unique handblown glassware. Taking inspiration from her Latin roots and utilizing locally-sourced ingredients, Chef Sibja’s pork carnitas, arctic char, and avocado dishes are sure to exceed your expectations.

Kind Café, Whitehorse

As you step through Kind Café’s front door, you’re greeted by a modern space with chic, cosmopolitan vibes. This whole-food and plant-based café offers a variety of vegan, gluten, and dairy-free options on its menu such as refreshing smoothies, acai bowls, and an assortment of sinfully delicious desserts.

Wayfarer Oyster House, Whitehorse

Tucked inside a warehouse, Wayfarer Oyster House features food sourced locally and regionally. The casual and hip spot boasts a cozy interior adorned with dim lighting, oyster shell chandeliers, and gilded mirrors. The well-curated menu offers delectable dishes such as expertly shucked oysters, savory duck fat potatoes, and a sublime tuna capellini.

The ’98, Whitehorse

A red, wood-panel exterior and saloon-style front make The ’98 impossible to miss as you walk through downtown Whitehorse. This establishment has an authentic Yukon charm dating back to the 1940s and offers affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. What makes The ’98 special is its hospitality and the live performances held in its lounge, with fiddle music transporting listeners back to the Gold Rush era.

Activities

Community of Carcross

Experience the history of the Gold Rush era and First Nations culture in this small, picturesque community. Visit the Carcross Learning Centre to view modern and traditional art from the Carcross Tagish First Nation. Explore the Carcross Desert — the smallest desert in the world — and check out the S.S. Tutshi, a riverboat turned memorial site. In warmer months, Carcross Commons comes alive, allowing visitors to explore artisan shops and the Matthew Watson General Store, plus the supposedly haunted Caribou Hotel.

Horwoods Mall, Whitehorse

Don’t leave the Yukon without picking up a few souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Built in 1905, the Horwoods Mall started as a general goods store and now hosts an eclectic mix of retailers and food shops. Inside, discover The Collective Good, a home design store offering local and international treasures; Unorthodox, featuring fashionable items made by local artisans; and the North End Gallery, where Yukon art and First Nations crafts are available for purchase.

Flightseeing

Flightseeing is a must-do activity on your Yukon itinerary. It’s a unique experience to see the vastness of the territory and its natural wonders from the air. Notable landmarks include the Kaskawulsh Glacier and Kluane Icefields within Kluane National Park and Reserve, as well as the striking Southern Lakes waterways and Tombstone Territorial Park, known as Canada’s Patagonia. Ensure you book flights ahead with local operators, such as Alpine Aviation, Rocking Star Adventures, Icefield Discovery, and Kluane Air.

Kluane National Park and Reserve

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 17 of Canada’s highest peaks, the tallest being Mount Logan. People from around the globe come to Kluane National Park and Reserve to enjoy its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors are strongly reminded to exercise safety precautions when in the park.

Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, Whitehorse

This beautifully designed and modern cultural center celebrates the heritage and contemporary way of life of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of its permanent collection of artifacts and artworks showcasing intricate creations by their people, from beading to sculptural or carved pieces.

Long Ago People’s Place, Champagne

Ensure you spend time at Long Ago People’s Place, a living museum that offers insight into the life of a traditional First Nations village. The charming hosts, Harold Johnson and Meta Williams, share their extensive knowledge and pride for Southern Tutchone culture and heritage with visitors. Tour the grounds and step inside recreated structures, such as a log cabin and snow tent, or camp overnight. Participate in their many educational programs such as foraging for herbs and wild mushrooms.

Lumel Studios, Whitehorse

Lumel Studios is a glass-blowing facility adjacent to Gather Café and Taphouse. The studio fosters a safe, creative, and inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. They offer group workshops and individual sessions teaching the art of glassblowing. It is advisable to book your session in advance due to the studio’s popularity.

Northern Lights Viewing

Viewing the legendary Northern Lights requires a combination of luck, patience, timing, weather, and strategic planning. Consequently, the best time to see the lights is from late August to mid-April — during the night, of course. Optimal viewing locations include open areas, such as frozen lakes or forest clearings. Many apps are available to track the chances of viewing the lights; popular options include My Aurora Forecast & Alerts (iOS, Android); Aurora Forecast (iOS); Aurora Borealis Forecast & Alerts; and Northern Lights Alerts.

Tagish Lake Kennel, Tagish

Michelle Phillips and her partner Ed Hopkins own and operate Tagish Lake Kennel. As veteran Yukon Quest and Iditarod long-distance mushers, they are local heroes with some of the most loving and friendly sled dogs you’ll ever meet. In summer, you can join a cart tour with the dogs, take an adventurous hike alongside them, or cuddle with their adorable puppies. During winter, visitors can bundle up and dog sled through the stunning Southern Lakes region for an unforgettable experience.

Well Bread, Whitehorse

Satisfy your culinary curiosity by taking a cooking class at Well Bread, Yukon’s only private, licensed cooking school. Chef Cat McInroy and her expert team guide participants in baking delicious treats, crafting Yukon-inspired beverages, and sharing the unique and rich history of sourdough in the territory that dates back to the Klondike Gold Rush.