Compare Yukon Adventure by Great Canadian Trails
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 7 days |
| Price From | $ 2,383 |
| Price Per Day | $ 340 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | |
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
1 Dinner |
| Description |
Known as The Land of the Midnight Sun, Yukon Territory is also the land of Canada's highest mountain peaks, legendary northern parks, the world's largest non-polar ice fields, several Canadian Heritage Rivers, and healthy, abundant wildlife. Yukon's jaw-dropping natural features are what set this place apart, with at least twenty mountains in the southwest exceeding 4,000 metres, and a handful exceeding 5,000 metres. The territory is dotted with countless scenic lakes and over 70 canoeable wilderness rivers including the mighty Yukon River, the third longest river in North America. |
Day 1: Whitehorse
Welcome to Whitehorse! Upon arrival, make your way to the downtown hotel using the hotel's complimentary shuttle. Named after the rapids on the Yukon River which resembled the flowing manes of charging white horses, the territory's capital was a First Nations’ campsite until the Gold Rush brought tens of thousands of gold-seekers on their way to the Klondike. This evening is free to explore the historic town and its quaint Main Street.
Day 2: Carcross Day Hike (4-5hrs, 9km)
Today we will hit the road and go south down the Klondike highway, to the First Nation community of Carcross, once known as 'Caribou Crossing'. In Carcross, we will climb the Sam McGee Trail, a historic and rewarding hike. The trail was originally made to service the tramway built in 1905 by Sam McGee for a silver mining operation and there remain many remnants of the tramway and mining artifacts along the trail. The hike has an elevation of 618m, is 9km long, and takes 4-5 hours. The mountain and lake views from the top are sure to amaze. We return to our hotel in Whitehorse for overnight.
Day 3: Visit and Hike in Kluane National Park (4hrs, 14km)
Today, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Kluane National Park and Reserve. Truly a dream hiking destination, Kluane offers an alpine and subalpine landscape for hikers of all levels. At 22,000 square kilometres, the park is half the size of the Netherlands. It’s also home to Canada’s highest mountain, Mount Logan, and the largest non-polar icefields on Earth. Wildflowers bloom in abundance during summer, and in the fall, the aspen forests and alpine create an unforgettable display of colour. After a stop at the visitor's centre, we enjoy an easy afternoon hike on the Thunderegg Creek Trail; a good half-day hike that gives us a closer look at Kluane’s famous mountains, following along an old exploration road with open views of the Alsek Valley. The trail is 14km long with minimal elevation gain, and takes approximately 4 hours ending at the namesake sphere-shaped 'thunder egg' rocks. We spend the next 2 nights at a comfortable inn in the community of Haines Junction, conveniently located on the edge of the national park.
Day 4: Kluane National Park Full-Day Hike (6.5-8hrs, 15km)
We have a full day to truly experience majestic Kluane, as we are spoiled with trail options in this incredible park. Depending on local conditions and the group's interest/abilities, we may choose Sheep Creek trail which offers incredible mountain views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Sheep Creek is 15km long, has a 1100m elevation gain, and takes approximately 6.5 hours. Alternatively, we can consider the famous but difficult King’s Throne on Kathleen Lake, which has an elevation gain of 1250m, is 15km long, and takes approximately 8 hours. The views of the surrounding valleys and Kathleen Lake are absolutely breathtaking. This evening we return to Haines Junction for dinner (not included) and overnight.
Day 5: Half-Day Hike and Takhini Hot Springs
In the morning, we will have time for another short hike. We will decide on which one based on how we feel after the last two days. In the afternoon, we will return to Whitehorse and make our way to the Takhini Hot Pools to relax in the healing waters after hiking through Kluane. Rich in minerals, the natural hot springs have been in operation for over 100 years. This evening we have another opportunity to take time to explore Whitehorse and get to know the capital. Overnight downtown hotel.
Day 6: Paddling the Yukon River (5-7hrs)
It's time for a canoe trip down the Yukon River – this trip is one of the highlight experiences of the Yukon! The Yukon River presents excellent opportunities to spot unique wildlife and to see the Yukon from a different perspective. We paddle for about 5-7 hours down the historic river between its beginning near Marsh Lake, through Mile's Canyon, and to Schwatka Lake (2 people per canoe, no paddling experience required). From here, we return to Whitehorse for a celebratory farewell dinner and final night in the capital.
Day 7: Whitehorse
Today marks the end of our adventure. Take advantage of the hotel's free airport shuttle and have a safe onward journey!
