A fascinating mountainous territory present in northwest Canada, Yukon is a wonderful destination to explore. It’s wild, sparsely populated, and blessed with incredible terrain. Yukon is home to Kluane National Park and Reserve, which includes Canada’s highest peak- Mount Logan- and amazing trails, glaciers, and spectacular Alsek River. Traveling to the far north, you will find Ivvanik National Park and a well-protected calving area for amazing Porcupine caribou. Hikers simply cannot miss exploring enchanting Miles Canyon when here. In the south of this territory, you can find several glacier-fed alpine lakes. Stunning Emerald Lake is sure to delight you. So, if you are keen on visiting Yukon in your upcoming vacation, learning about some of the best landmarks and activities to go for will make your excursion here more interesting and enjoyable. Keep reading to find a list of the best things to do in Yukon, Canada, during your holidays.
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1. Explore untouched wilderness in Kluane National Park and Reserve
Home to the second biggest icefield on the globe, Kluane National Park and Reserve is a fascinating attraction to visit in the southwest of Yukon. Discover the pristine wilderness of the forests, icefields, and soaring peaks, such as Mount Logan, when exploring this magnificent reserve. Explore amazing trails such as the King’s Throne, which runs above the pleasant Kathleen Lake to a spectacular cirque. If you are a birder, you will enjoy spotting the birds as this park is also home to greater than 100 bird species. Do not miss visiting the indigenous Klukshu Village and touring through Da Ku Cultural Center.
Book Tours : Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour
2. Gaze at the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis
Make your trip to Yukon memorable by viewing the spectacular aurora borealis, which cascades across the serene night sky. Your Yukon winter vacation won’t be complete without viewing this stunning sky view. Choose to be in a secluded tailor-made location to watch these scenic northern lights. Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural landscape of this region. Make your evening comfortable here by having hot drinks and snacks.
Book Tours : Yukon: Aurora Borealis Late Night Viewing Tour
3. Hike along Yukon’s winding mountain trails
If you are fond of hiking, be sure that you explore the beautiful trails and rugged wilderness by going for exciting Arctic hiking when holidaying in Yukon. Walk along the winding mountain trails while viewing scenic views of the rolling landscapes and shimmering lakes. Discover the panoramic geography of Yukon. Spotting some native flora and fauna in the sprawling open stretches here is sure to please you. In the afternoon, make sure you hike along the shores of charming Fish Lake.
Book Tours : Arctic Day: Hiking Tour | half day
4. Go ice fishing & snowshoeing on the frozen lake
Make your trip more exciting and enjoyable than usual by going snowshoeing and ice fishing when in Yukon. Put on a pair of modern, lightweight snowshoes and head out over the marvelous snowy landscape to enjoy the fun of ice fishing. Try your best to catch a fish in the ice of the frozen lake. Look out for the signs of elusive winter wildlife in Yukon. Gaze at the sweeping views of Whitehorse forests and breathtaking winter landscapes. You may even be lucky to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Book Tours : Yukon Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing Tour
5. Get a close glimpse of the wildlife at Yukon Wildlife Preserve
Are you a wildlife enthusiast vacationing in Yukon? Then, make sure you visit Yukon Wildlife Preserve to watch amazing wildlife of this peculiar region. You may be lucky to get an opportunity to capture photos of the wild animals in their natural habitat. Learn about wildlife such as the Rocky Mountain elk, the Alaska Yukon moose, the woodland caribou, mountain goats, the Canada Lynx, the wood bison, mule deer, red foxes, arctic foxes, muskoxen, and thinhorn sheep, when exploring this wildlife preserve. Get acquainted with the locals here. And then, set out to soak in warm, refreshing pools of natural hot springs at Takhini Hot Springs.
Book Tours : Arctic Day: Wildlife & Hot Springs | Half Day
6. Get the Yukon summer experience
If you want to make your trip to Yukon fun and adventurous, do not miss enjoying various summer adventure activities. Gaze at the spectacular remote terrain when on a scenic flight. Spend a day exploring Kluane National Park, and try spotting wildlife such as caribou, elk, and moose, when touring through Yukon Wildlife Preserve. Canoe down the enchanting Yukon River, and get refreshed by bathing in one of the rejuvenating baths at the Takhini Hot Springs.
7. Tour the decks of S.S. Klondike National Historic Site
Step back into the historic era of 1898 Klondike Gold Rush by visiting this preserved ship at S.S. Klondike National Historic Site. SS Klondike is known for being the name of two sternwheelers, and the second now is famous for being a national historic attraction in Yukon. They ran the freight along the Yukon River between Dawson City and Whitehorse. Don’t miss the wonderful opportunity to explore goldfields. Enrich your knowledge and travel experience as you explore S.S. Klondike with the knowledgeable interpreters. Appreciate the scenery of scenic Yukon River valley as you relax on the sun deck.
S.S. Klondike National Historic Site
Address: 10 Robert Service Way, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1V8, Canada
Website: S.S. Klondike National Historic Site
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6.05 USD per person
8. Enjoy kayaking on the rivers with Yukon Wide Adventures
Are you looking for an adventurous kayaking experience when exploring Yukon? If you nodded along excitedly, make sure you visit Yukon Wide Adventures, a perfect tour operator for adventurers and travelers. Explore Yukon all by yourself while floating your kayak on the lapping waters of the river. Pleasant rivers here boast unique wilderness and offer you endless thrilling opportunities. Going for ‘Prijon’ and ‘Necky’ kayaks at Yukon Wide Adventures is sure to gift you an unforgettable kayaking experience. Watch the picturesque surroundings and nature as you ride in a kayak on the water
Yukon Wide Adventures
Address: 102 Lambert St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1Z2, Canada
Website: Yukon Wide Adventures
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 28 - 36 USD
9. Check out the displays of wild animals at Caribou Crossing Trading Post
Do not miss the wonderful experience of strolling among the wild creatures of past and present Yukon by visiting the Wildlife Museum at Caribou Crossing Trading Post. It is home to numerous Northern taxidermy exhibits, ranging from ancient time animals to current day beasts. You can find here bison, grizzly bears, big woolly mammoth, moose, and the biggest polar bear in the world. Also, you can visit the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Museum and learn about the role of Mounties in the development of Yukon. Get to know how challenging it was to manage sprawling and hostile terrain.
Caribou Crossing Trading Post
Address: YT-2, Carcross, YT Y0B 1B0, Canada
Website: Caribou Crossing Trading Post
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 9.5 USD per adult; 7.5 USD per child
10. Get a glimpse into Yukon's history at MacBride Museum of Yukon History
Are you curious to learn about the history of Yukon during your sabbatical in this Canadian territory? If yes, plan to visit the MacBride Museum of Yukon History, which preserves and illustrates the history of Yukon. This museum is a non-profit society and it has a great variety of exhibits and programs for visitors. It also cares for the valued collections of the community. Watch amazing exhibits which acquaint you to the natural, industrial, social, and economic history of Yukon. Have an enriching experience to cherish.
MacBride Museum of Yukon History
Address: 1124 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1A4, Canada
Website: MacBride Museum of Yukon History
Opening hours: Tue: 10am - 4pm; Wed: 10am - 9pm; Thu - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 5 - 10 USD
11. Learn about the ice-age at Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre
You simply can’t afford to miss visiting Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, which is an outstanding research and exhibition facility in Yukon. Watch incredible multimedia exposition here that showcases life-size exhibits of ice age animals, dioramas featuring eye-catching landscape and amazing flora and fauna of Beringia. In addition to this, remodeling of spectacular Bluefish Caves archaeological landmark and a full-size cast of the gigantic woolly mammoth that was discovered in North America, are the highlights of this natural history museum. You can view 26,000-year-old remains of the best-preserved species of an extinct huge mammal ever discovered in Canada.
Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre
Address: Alaska Hwy, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6E6, Canada
Website: Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD per adult; 5 USD per senior; Free for children of age 5 and under
12. Admire the signs at Sign Post Forest
If viewing signposts and guessing their meaning fascinates you, Sign Post Forest in Yukon is the place for you to visit. It houses an incredible collection of signs at Watson Lake and it is one of the most popular landmarks you can find along the Alaska Highway. Sign Post Forest was started by a G.I. in 1942. Travelers from various parts of the world have been bringing noteworthy signposts from their hometowns to this unique landmark in Yukon. Today, there are more than 80,000 signposts here. Spend time watching a vast variety of signs such as street signs, license plates, welcome signs, and other signposts, at your ease.
Sign Post Forest
Address: Mile 635, Alaska Hwy, Watson Lake, YT, Canada
Website: Sign Post Forest
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Get an insight into transportation history at Yukon Transportation Museum
Get to know about the noteworthy transportation history of the difficult-to-access Yukon by paying a visit to Yukon Transportation Museum. This outstanding museum brings to life how people carried out transportation in the past. Learn about the stories of the bush pilots who strived to make access to this terrain easier. Listen to the tales of the people who developed the Alaska Highway, which is still crucial to inhabitants of Yukon. You will learn stories of love, adventure, loss, fear, joy, devastation, separation, and ingenuity that will tell you how and why humans have been making efforts over this terrain for thousands of years.
Yukon Transportation Museum
Address: 30 Electra Crescent, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 0M7, Canada
Website: Yukon Transportation Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD per adult
14. Admire art at Yukon Arts Centre
If you love to watch and admire exquisite art, make sure you visit the Yukon Arts Centre (YAC) when holidaying in fabulous Yukon. Established in 1993, this public art gallery aims to support northern artists, promote their stories, and motivates the connection with First Nations via art. The programming directions of YAC spans the performing arts, visual arts, community outreach, residencies, and training. It is home to a rich array of exhibitions, production activities, and creation. Visit the Yukon Arts Centre to have a glimpse of praiseworthy art featured in Yukon.
Yukon Arts Centre
Address: 300 College Dr, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5X9, Canada
Website: Yukon Arts Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 14 - 25 USD
15. Learn about Yukon’s gold mining past at Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site
Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site is an iconic landmark which every history buff touring through Yukon must visit. It is a noteworthy wooden-hulled bucket line sluice dredge which is known for mining placer gold from 1913 to 1959 on the Yukon River. The dredge is known to have excavated gravel at the speed of 22 buckets a minute with 72 big buckets. During its operational life, it was popular for having captured nine tons (8164.66 kilograms) of gold. It is commemorated as it signifies the significance of the dredging operations between 1899 and 1966 in the territory of Yukon.
Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site
Address: Upper Bonanza Creek Road, Dawson City, YT Y0B 1G0, Canada
Website: Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 6 - 22 USD per person
16. Spice up your trip with adventure at Mount Sima
Your trip to Yukon won’t be complete without experiencing the thrill of skiing and mountain-biking at Mount Sima. So, plan to visit this modest ski area in Yukon to enjoy some time on the snow. Mount Sima is quite popular for its freestyle terrain parks which are great to explore. Do not miss the fun of summer mountain-biking. Besides these, this incredible attraction offers you great opportunities for paragliding over the hill, riding the chairlift, and hiking. Make your excursion to Yukon adventurous and fun.
Mount Sima
Address: 770 Mount Sima Road, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 0A8, Canada
Website: Mount Sima
Opening hours: Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Thu)
Price: 20 - 30 USD
17. Tour Yukon's Old Log Church Museum
A visit to the Old Log Church Museum, one of the oldest structures in Whitehorse present on its original site, will acquaint you with the spirited history of Yukon. This unique quaint log structure was built in 1900 and it is a place of soul and heart. Tour through this historic museum, which is a crucial chapter of the foundation story of Yukon. Exhibits showcased here focus on the early pioneers and missionaries of Yukon. Learn about their interesting stories and hidden treasures.
Old Log Church Museum
Address: 303 Elliott St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6K8, Canada
Website: Old Log Church Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm
Price: 6 USD per adult
18. Play a game of poker at Diamond Tooth Gertie's Gambling Hall
2019 White Ram No Limit Hold ‘Em Tournament. This two-day event wrapped up last night with a top prize of over $30K....
Posted by Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall on Monday, 9 September 2019
If you want to explore the casino scenario when holidaying in Yukon, plan to visit the Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall in Dawson City. It was first founded by the Klondike Visitors Association in 1971 and is famous as the oldest casino in Canada. It was the first licensed gambling hall in Canada offering you an entertaining experience with casino games, dance shows, and nostalgic tunes. Play your favorite game, such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and other available games here, and spend an enjoyable time. This casino also features a special game called money wheel.
Diamond Tooth Gertie's Gambling Hall
Address: 1001 Fourth Ave, Dawson City, YT Y0B 1G0, Canada
Website: Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall
Opening hours: 7pm - 2am (daily)
Price: 11 USD
19. Experience the indigenous culture at Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
Photo by Archbould Photography
Posted by Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre on Thursday, 18 May 2017
Located on the banks of the Yukon River, you will find the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, which is popular as the cultural home of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation. Learn about heritage, practices, language, values, and lifestyle of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation at this place. This Cultural Center greets tourists from near and far to share the experiences and stories. It also celebrates events, such as Indigenous People’s Day, programs, Christmas Craft Fair, and workshops. So, make sure you pay a visit to this cultural landmark in Yukon.
Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
Address: 1171 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 2C6, Canada
Website: Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
20. Soak in the rejuvenating Takhini Hot Springs
Have a fantastic time visiting a natural hot spring when vacationing in Yukon by visiting Takhini Hot Springs, which is one of the most visited attractions in this Canadian territory. The incredible hot springs have been operating for more than 100 years. Rejuvenating hot spring pools here have a relaxing temperature of 36° and 42° Celsius. The water at Takhini Hot Springs is natural and abundant in minerals. Spend leisure time soaking in the two connected pools here and refresh your mind and body.
Takhini Hot Springs
Address: 10 KM/ Mile 6 Takhini Hotsprings Rd, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 7A2, Canada
Website: Takhini Hot Springs
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 12.50 USD per adult regular; 35 USD family pass
21. Have delicious seafood at Klondike Rib & Salmon
If you crave to eat savory seafood delicacies when exploring Yukon, plan to visit Klondike Rib & Salmon to enjoy a scrumptious meal. It’s a quaint food restaurant located in old buildings in Whitehorse, Yukon, and greets you to have your lunch and dinner leisurely. You can find here delectable seafood cuisines such as rocket prawns, singing coconut prawns, world-famous Alaskan halibut fish and chips, maple barbecue salmon wrap, and many other delicacies. Do not miss having lip-smacking desserts after your meal.
Klondike Rib & Salmon
Address: 2116 2nd Ave, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 2A8, Canada
Website: Klondike Rib & Salmon
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 3:30pm & 4pm - 9:30pm; Sun: 4pm - 9:30pm
22. Hang out with friends at Mile 1016 Pub
Nestled in the spectacular St Elias mountain range in the enchanting Kluane National Park, ‘Mile 1016 Pub’ is a great pub to hang out with your friends when vacationing in Yukon. Order your favorite refreshments and enjoy them in leisure. There are great nachos to please your taste buds. The warm, homey setting here, offering breathtaking mountain views, is sure to please you. Have a good time listening to great music while enjoying the refreshments.
Mile 1016 Pub
Address: 118 Marshall Creek Rd, Haines Junction, YT Y0B 1L0, Canada
Website: Mile 1016 Pub
Opening hours: 12pm - 2am (daily)
23. Have some coffee at Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters
Are you a coffee-lover fond of having fresh, hot, coffee regularly? If you answered positively, do not miss visiting Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters, a fabulous coffee shop, when spending your holidays in Yukon. It’s a coffee roastery and lovely café which greets you to enjoy freshly roasted coffee. This roastery roasts the coffee on-site and it has a cozy café within it. When you visit it during the summer, you can enjoy spectacular mountain views while sipping your coffee on a gorgeous patio. Also, buy some packets of coffee to take back home.
Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters
Address: 21 Waterfront Pl, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6V1, Canada
Website: Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm
24. Have a pleasant shopping experience at Qwanlin Mall
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Are you fond of shopping and looking forward to buying accessories and useful things during your sabbatical in Yukon? If yes, take time out of your busy travel schedule and visit Qwanlin Mall. It’s a shopping center worth visiting in this Canadian territory, to enjoy a wonderful shopping experience. Stroll here in leisure and shop for your favorite items. Interact with the locals here. Do not forget shopping for souvenirs for your loved ones back home.
Qwanlin Mall
Address: 303 Ogilvie St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 2S3, Canada
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm
25. Canoe down the rapids of Takhini River
Experience the thrill of canoeing down rapids of Takhini River during your excursion in Yukon. Explore the Canadian wilderness and sprawling landscapes of Yukon as you paddle through the clear and calm waters of the river. Marvel at the panoramic views. At the end of your canoeing excursion, you will come across the Jaws of Death, which is a series of short yet fun rapids of the river. Once you are done with the water excursion, enjoy relishing scrumptious lunch on the shore. Later, head to explore Ibex Valley. Keep an eye for wildlife while touring this region.
Book Tours : Whitehorse: Full-Day Takhini River Canoe Trip
26. Explore the Yukon back country
Enjoy the unique experience of playing and cuddling Yukon huskies, amazing dogs found in Yukon. Stay in a wilderness lodge in this incredible Canadian territory where you get an opportunity to befriend furry huskies. Learn about the Yukon lifestyle with these furry dogs as you devour the delicious meal. Do not miss viewing the spectacular northern lights.
27. Enjoy a sumptuous Salmon Bake at Bennett Lake
Have the best gastronomic experience at the Bistro on Bennett in the historic and charming village of Carcross. Please your taste buds with scrumptious Salmon Bake. Here, you get delicious food directly from the skilled chef, off the wood-fire grills with the aroma of campfire smoke in the air. Along with the Salmon Bake, you can have homemade iced tea, hot tea, and cowboy coffee.
Book Tours : Bennett Lake Salmon Bake
28. Go summer camping on the shores of Takhini River
If you are planning to explore Yukon during the summer, be sure you enjoy the fun of summer camping along the charming Takhini River. Have fun canoeing down the pleasant Takhini River as you watch amazing nature views in the surroundings. Camp along the shores of this beautiful river. Visit Kusawa Lake during your camping excursion. Also, you might be lucky to view outstanding wildlife of this region in the Ibex Valley, such as beavers, moose, bears, and eagles.
Book Tours : Takhini River Summer Camping
29. Explore Yukon and interact with the locals
Make your trip to Yukon more interesting than usual by interacting with the locals. Learn about the fascinating facts of this incredible territory on the globe. Legends, myths, and folklore of the famous Klondike era are sure to amaze you. You will find the locals here to be friendly and will help you have an enriching experience as you tour through Yukon.
Book Tours : Yukoners Plus Puppies
A memorable experience in Yukon
Yukon is a fabulous destination which gifts you a unique experience to cherish for a lifetime. From the incredible wildlife, snowy landscapes, historic landmarks and charming lakes, to the nature trails, Yukon has all that an explorer looks for. And, all these fun-filled activities will make your holidays to Yukon enjoyable. So, make sure you go for all these things to do in Yukon, Canada, and have enriching travel experience. Yukon awaits you.
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