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Aerial view of the Kathleen Lake and the surrounding mountains in Yukon Territory during the summer

Things to do in  Yukon

Yukon—adventure behind every mountain

Yukon is the gateway to the wild beauty of the North—here, you’ll find Canada’s highest mountain and have the chance to watch the natural spectacle of the aurora borealis. In the summer, visitors come to watch huge herds of caribou during their annual migration and to experience the Adäka Cultural Festival in Whitehorse for a chance to learn about the rich culture of the region’s Indigenous nations. Although Yukon may be remote, it offers unique opportunities to explore and plenty of things to do.

Top 15 attractions in Yukon

Yukon Wildlife Preserve

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Vast, wild, and barely touched by humans, Canada’s Yukon Territory is one of the best places to view North American wildlife. At the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, many species native to the region—such as musk ox, Canadian lynx, elk, and bison—can all be seen at relatively close range in spacious natural habitats.More

Kluane National Park and Reserve

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Canada’s highest peak, the largest non-polar ice fields, and North America’s most genetically diverse grizzly populations are all housed in the Yukon Territory’s Kluane National Park. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with glaciers, peaks, rivers, and lakes where visitors can spot wildlife such as Dall sheep, caribou, wolves, grizzlies, and more than 100 different species of birds.More

Yukon River

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The Yukon River stretches nearly 2,000 miles (over 3,000 kilometers) from its source in British Columbia, across the entire width of Alaska, before emptying into the Bering Sea. During the Klondike Gold Rush, the river was one of the few transportation routes for gold prospectors and many historic gold rush sites and relics can be viewed along the river today.More

Miles Canyon

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Just outside of Whitehorse, the Yukon River carves its way through a basaltic lava flow revealing colorful cliffs of volcanic rock. During the gold rush days, the fierce rapids of Miles Canyon posed a significant danger to stampeders, but the canyon has since been tamed with a dam and is now a popular recreation area for locals and visitors alike.More

S.S. Klondike National Historic Site

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Located on the banks of the Yukon River, the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site celebrates the history of riverboats in the Yukon. During the Klondike Gold Rush, the S.S. Klondike played an important role in moving ore, goods, and people up and down the river between Whitehorse and Dawson City. The boat is now a museum and monument to the era of riverboat transportation.More

Emerald Lake

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Known as the “most photographed lake in the Yukon,” Emerald Lake is graced with vibrant hues of green water. The unique colors—created by sunlight reflecting off a layer of white calcium carbonate on the lake’s bottom—set the lake apart from the many others that dot the Yukon. The novelty draws in road trippers traveling the Klondike Highway.More

Bennett Lake

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Straddling the border of the Yukon Territory and British Columbia, Bennett Lake is known for its beaches and water sports activities. You can spend the day relaxing on sandy shores and enjoying mountain views or take to the water for canoeing, kayaking, or kite surfing. In the summer, the lake is even warm enough for a refreshing swim.More

Caribou Crossing Trading Post

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Caribou Crossing Trading Post is a hub of gold rush history that gives visitors the opportunity to experience the Yukon Territory through activities such as gold panning and Iditarod dog cart rides. It also boasts a museum, petting farm, husky puppies, a cafe, and gift shop—making it an all-around great stopover on a road trip or tour.More

Carcross

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Nestled on the shores of Bennett Lake and surrounded by rugged mountains, Carcross is a hub of gold rush history, First Nation culture, and outdoor adventure. The small town is a popular stop for visitors who come for gold panning, totem poles, world-class mountain biking, and relaxing on the lake’s renowned beaches.More
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Whitehorse Fish Ladder and Hatchery

Whitehorse Fish Ladder and Hatchery

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Each year over a thousand Chinook salmon pass through the world’s longest wooden fish ladder at the Whitehorse Fish Ladder and Hatchery. The fish ladder is part of their journey from the Bering Sea back to their home waters to spawn. This 1,200-foot (366-meter chute allows the salmon to bypass the Whitehorse Dam and is a popular spot to watch the salmon run.More
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Takhini Hot Pools

Takhini Hot Pools

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The Takhini Hot Springs has drawn visitors to its natural mineral waters for more than 100 years. Water enters the first of two large pools at 108°F (42°C) and gradually cools to 98.6°F (37°C) in the lower pool. Nestled in the Yukon wilderness, visitors have the chance to spot wildlife—and maybe even the northern lights—while basking in the springs.More
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Summit Lake

Summit Lake

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Resting atop White Pass at the border of Alaska and the Yukon Territory, Summit Lake is a tranquil high-mountain lake surrounded by forests, mountains, and wildlife. Lined by the Klondike Highway, the lake is easily accessible and provides a great place to take a break from the road and enjoy a picnic or photo opportunity.More
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MacBride Copperbelt Mining Museum

MacBride Copperbelt Mining Museum

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The MacBride Copperbelt Mining Museum dubs itself a healthy learning and outdoor fun destination that can entertain anybody between the ages of 2 and 102. The two-kilometer-long “Loki” train ride is the main attraction; however, the museum is a true lesson on both the rich mining history in Canada’s North and the colorful characters that contributed to the development of Yukon’s capital city, Whitehorse.The museum’s wilderness setting, interpretive walking trails and a large picnic pavilion, make it a great place to spend an entire afternoon. Kids will be kept busy, too, with fun activities that teach them to stake a mining claim, scavenger hunts through the museum grounds, and a playground.More
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Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

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Delve into the ancient history of Beringia, the land bridge that once connected Asia with North America, at the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre. You’ll learn about the Ice Age and now-extinct colossal animals like the wooly mammoth, and hear the stories of Canada’s first people. Life-size animal displays and interactive exhibits make this one of the Yukon’s top attractions for kids.More
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Matthew Watson General Store

Matthew Watson General Store

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The oldest store in the Yukon Territory, the Matthew Watson General Store is packed with historic goods, so you can feel as if you have stepped back into the early 1900s. Browse old-school confectionery items in barrels and glass jars, pick up First Nation handicrafts, and top off your shopping stop with a gourmet ice cream cone.More
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All about Yukon

When to visit

Seasons in Yukon are distinct, so the best time to visit depends on your interests. Winter is the time for skiing, dog-sledding, and defrosting in a hot spring under the stars. Springtime sees the tundra come to life, and it’s a favorite season for birdwatchers. Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and endless hiking opportunities, but don’t forget to check out the festivals and events that run throughout the season.

Traveler tips

Don’t miss out on experiencing Yukon cuisine—treats like bannock, smoked salmon, and game meats are staples, and the region’s food scene reflects the traditions and culture of its Indigenous people. Hit up the Yukon Culinary Festival, which takes place in August, where you can learn about foraging, hunting, and cooking techniques. The taste of the North highlights fresh, hyperlocal ingredients, while the sparsity of the environment encourages innovation.

Currency
Canadian Dollar (CA$)
Time Zone
PST (UTC -8)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English

People Also Ask

Getting around

Yukon is a vast region, and many of its highlights are remote—exploring is easiest with a car. The dramatic scenery gives you the perfect excuse for a road trip. Otherwise, most visitors fly into Whitehorse or Yellowknife, and plenty of tours operate out of both cities for a more structured experience.

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What is Yukon best known for?

Yukon is known for its remote natural beauty and the chance to see the northern lights. As one of Canada’s northern territories, it has a unique environment compared to the rest of Canada, and it’s the perfect destination for adventurous travelers.

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What is the prettiest town in Yukon?

Yukon has a tiny population compared to other Canadian provinces, and two-thirds live in Whitehorse. Whitehorse is a hub for culture, cuisine, and comfort, and many visitors to Yukon choose to make it their home base while exploring.

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What is the most visited place in Yukon?

Located in central Yukon, Tombstone Territorial Park is perfect for discovering the territory’s natural treasures. The land is the traditional home of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch'in nation, and craggy mountains dominate the scene. Watch for caribou, bears, and wolves as you hike through the permafrost-covered landscape.

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Why do tourists visit Yukon?

Tourists visit to immerse themselves in the beauty of the North—this remote territory invites you to unwind and explore, with countless hiking and camping opportunities. It’s also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with bears, caribous, sheep, and wolves all making their homes in the region.

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What is the best time of year to visit Yukon?

It depends on your interests but visit during the summer to experience 24-hour sunlight and wildlife returning from their migratory journeys. It’s the best time of year for camping and hiking opportunities, and Whitehorse bustles with festivals and cultural events.

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Can you see the northern lights in Yukon?

Yes—seeing the northern lights is a main draw for many visitors. Visit during the winter, when the sky is dark, and the lights really shine. Many visitors opt for a specific tour, where your guide has experience finding the best location to watch the lights.

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Yukon information

Number of Attractions

15

Number of Tours

30

Number of Reviews

158

Currency

CAD
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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