The Yukon Territory of Canada, located just south of the Beaufort Sea, Arctic Ocean, and North Pole, exists in the imagination as a wilderness filled with chalky mountains, wolf-ridden forests, and treacherous snow-covered passes. This landscape has challenged gold panners and fur-clad trappers, many of whom lost their way amid the extreme weather and rugged geography.
Characters from Jack London’s classic tales, such as the dispatchers, stampeders, and outdoor adventurers, embody the spirit of exploration and invigorating escapades that await in the Yukon.
With a vast area to discover, the Yukon Territory—larger than Sweden, Germany, or Japan—covers 480,000 square kilometers of North America’s northernmost mainland. Centered on Whitehorse, it features some of the world’s most convoluted mountain ranges and stark glacial valleys.
This stunning terrain also includes the world’s largest non-polar icefield and the famed Yukon River, aptly named after a First Nations Gwich’in phrase meaning ‘pale-colored white water’.
The rugged beauty of the Yukon beckons adventurers, as delightful micro-adventures are more accessible than one might expect. Here are some of the most memorable experiences, from witnessing mountains where few have tread to exploring the world’s smallest desert.
Explore the World’s Largest Non-Polar Ice Field
In midwinter, access to Kluane National Park begins at the Haines Junction airfield. For local pilot Daniel Clunies-Ross, this is merely the starting point. ‘Many of these mountains have never been set foot on by man,’ he expresses with excitement as the Cessna six-seater departs the runway. ‘That’s how extreme this place is.’
Ascending beyond the tree line reveals Canada’s greatest natural wonder, with Mount Logan—North America’s second-highest peak—crowned by the world’s largest non-polar ice field. From above, glaciers carve their way across the landscape, marking a dramatic interplay of ice and rugged terrain.
The pilot’s 300km loop takes him westward before navigating a series of peaks straddling the continental divide between Canada and Alaska. As the plane swoops lower, the stunning visuals showcase the intricate details of the marbled ice tongues and vast glaciers stretching for kilometers.
Ice-Fish on a Remote Frozen Lake
In the Yukon, everyone has a story, but few can narrate them quite like Patrick Beille. His experiences—ranging from solitary winters in off-grid cabins to encounters with brown bears—inspire awe. However, his instructions on ice fishing for Arctic char are particularly memorable.
‘If you catch one, you must gut it immediately and use the heart as bait for the next catch,’ he states while drilling through the thick ice of Caribou Lake south of Whitehorse. As he jiggles the line in the frigid air, he remains hopeful for a precious specimen, aware that despite the cold, these fish can live up to 60 years and swim distances of 120km.
In this striking landscape, Patrick awaits his catch, only to find fleeting shadows and the quick escape of the elusive char. Empty-handed yet again, he observes the starry sky as the aurora suddenly appears, filling the night with its ethereal dance, leaving him in awe of the Yukon’s unpredictable beauty.
Cross the World’s Smallest Desert
Transitioning from snowy landscapes to sandy dunes, the Carcross Desert offers a unique terrain formed by ancient sand deposits from nearby Lake Bennett. This desert, which is snow-covered in winter yet sun-kissed in summer, creates a captivating natural environment.
Visitors are drawn to this 600m-wide expanse, partaking in activities such as snowshoeing and skiing in winter and hiking, biking, and sandboarding during the warmer months. The delightful contrast of white snow and golden sands enhances the experience of exploring this distinctive area.
Surrounded by meadows that conceal mountain goats and woodlands, the Carcross Desert promises adventure, showcasing nature’s duality in one of the Yukon’s most intoxicating locales.
Dogsled into Uncharted Yukon Boreal Forest
The Southern Lakes region, encompassing Tagish, Marsh, and Squanga, is renowned for its robust dog sledding community. Historically, the Tlingit and Tagish First Nations used huskies for transportation during harsh winters, a practice that continues today.
Modern sledding depends on well-cared-for dogs donned in booties and harnesses, reflecting a long tradition that is both thrilling and controversial. Advocates of the sport argue that the dogs thrive on the exercise, while critics raise concerns regarding their treatment.
‘To be a true dog musher requires stamina and a profound love for the dogs,’ explains Vincent Galliard of Southern Lakes Resort, as his team of enthusiastic huskies joyfully traverses the snowy terrain. The silent wilderness becomes an extraordinary journey of companionship and adventure.
In the deep-freeze of midwinter, the Yukon transforms into an exhilarating experience as sledding reveals its timeless allure while offering visitors a glimpse into this rugged landscape.
Make it Happen
Consider planning your adventure to Yukon by booking glacier tours in Kluane National Park through Rocking Star Adventures. For ice fishing, check out The Inn on the Lake. To experience the Northern Lights, Arctic Range Adventure offers reputable tours. Dogsledding tours can be found at Southern Lakes Resort.
Originally published May 2018. Updated October 2019.
Mike MacEacheran traveled to Canada with thanks to Travel Yukon and Destination Canada. iBestTravel contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
