From the Northern Lights to grizzly bears, the Yukon is adventure defined. This larger than life wilderness brims with First Nations history, volcanic landscapes, rugged sky-high peaks and the mighty Yukon River. There are wolves, moose, muskox and caribou - and plenty of pristine hiking trails from which to view them. From river rafting to backpacking, easy hikes to challenging mountain biking, the Yukon offers up limitless adventure, no matter how you personally define it. 



Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, February 2018


Here’s where to immerse yourself in the epic natural grandeur the Yukon boasts: 

Kluane National Park and Reserve 

Known for its mind-blowing natural beauty and excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, Kluane National Park and Reserve has loads to offer the adventurous traveler. Canada’s highest peak - Mount Logan - and the country’s largest ice field are both here. There are grizzlies, backcountry camping, white-water rafting past calving icebergs and exceptional day hiking. There are hikes ranging from short walks to multi-day backpacking trips. Driving through or not a hiker? The view out your window from the highway is just as spectacular. 

The best time to visit is during the summer from mid-June to early-September. Be prepared for winter conditions anytime of year, though. 

Yukon Wildlife Preserve 


Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears - 2018


If it’s wildlife you seek, you’ll see a lot and then some at this 700-acre preserve. Visitors can walk, bike or cross-country ski the 3-mile viewing loop to see more than 12 species of northern Canadian mammals in their natural environment. Or, join a guided bus tour. This is an especially accessible way for visitors of all walking/hiking ability to get an up-close look at the Yukon’s wildlife. The preserve is open year-round.


And if visiting during the winter months, think about partaking in some traditional activities like mushing, snowshoeing and ski-dooing (as we used to call it).

 

Miles Canyon 

Explore the Miles Canyon and Whitehorse region on free guided hikes and learn about the area’s First National history, the Klondike Gold Rush and current conservation efforts. Miles Canyon itself is a show-stopping ribbon of turquoise water snaking its way between cliffs shaped by basaltic lava nine million years ago. 

Hike as far as you like - there are options for every ability level. Access the canyon on foot or by car. If you have all day, start in Whitehorse and follow the Millennium Trail to the fish ladder, then follow the Yukon River to the canyon. Don’t have all day? There’s a spur trail off the Alaska Highway that takes you to the canyon and it’s 85-foot-long suspension bridge. Bonus: This is a top wildlife-viewing trail in the Yukon.

Tombstone Territorial Park 

The only way into Tombstone Territorial Park - often called Canada’s Patagonia - is via the rough, unpaved Dempster Highway. Savor the wide-open views, the impressive rocky peaks and mesmerizing alpine lakes. Set off into the wilderness on a variety of remote and rugged hiking trails, camp or go backpacking or soar above it all on a flightseeing tour. 

If you can, visit during the late summer, when the tundra comes alive in hues of crimson, gold and red. 

Best Wildlife-Viewing Trails

Still seeking wildlife? If you’re an avid hiker, consider one of these trails renowned for their animal sightings: 

  • King’s Throne Peak, Kluane National Park and Reserve

  • Grizzly Lake, Divide Lake and Talus Lake Trail, Tombstone Territorial Park 

  • Fish Lake Loop, Whitehorse

  • Spirit Canyon, Ibex Valley

  • Grey Mountain Trail, Whitehorse


Ready for adventure? Let’s chat.