Experience the Yukon: Perfect winter Whitehorse itinerary

Perched at the top of Canada, the Yukon is well known as a prime destination for spotting the elusive Northern Lights. But there's much more to this unique territory than its spectacular skies. 

In this four-day itinerary, you'll experience vibrant city life, explore the snowy backcountry and get to know the locals while making plenty of time to gaze into the spectacular depths of every northern winter night. 

Day 1: Hit the town

The wilderness you seek nestles up against vibrant northern towns packed with arts, culture and one-of-a-kind experiences. Take a day to settle in and explore the streets of Whitehorse, the bustling territorial capital. Visit artists at work, learn about and share in First Nations culture, and explore the thriving culinary scene with its focus on ultra-local ingredients and recipes. 

As the sun sets (early – this is a northern winter, after all!) bundle up and head into the vast backcountry for the nightly ritual of chasing the Northern Lights. 

Day 2: Into the snow

Get out into wide-open spaces to experience a deeply quiet peace that allows you to truly exhale. Learn to drive a dog sled or just nestle under a cozy blanket as your canine tour guides take you on a meditative adventure through the snow. 

For a wilder ride, hop on a snowmobile to rev your way through forest trails onto frozen lakes and up into the mountains for unparalleled views. 

Day 3: Live like a Yukoner

Yukoners are passionate about their home, and they're happy to share their enthusiasm for this very special place. 

Join a local guide on a favourite Yukon pastime – ice fishing – for an afternoon of tall tales as you dip your line into the frigid waters through a hole drilled in the thick surface ice. 

Then warm your bones with a visit to the natural thermal waters of Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. Settle in for a rejuvenating soak, or dunk your head and achieve new hair heights as part of the annual hair-freezing contest. 

Day 4: Get wild

No trip to the Yukon is complete without a wildlife experience. Head to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve to visit more than 10 species of Yukon native animals cared for in a 750-acre ecosystem. Strap on a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes to tackle the 5 kilometre loop through the preserve that gets you up close (but not too close!) with the area's most iconic wildlife. 

Before your final evening (for now) of chasing the aurora, say a farewell toast to your northern adventure over a locally brewed beer and a bison burger at a favourite local hotspot like Miner's Daughter or the Gold Pan Saloon.

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