Plan a journey that’s as unique as our famous cocktail
There’s always plenty to do on a visit to the Yukon, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it just like everyone else. Yes, Miles Canyon is beautiful. And, of course, you can have a sip of a sour toe cocktail—which is still pretty rare. But if you’re looking for some even more out of the box trip ideas, just let your eyes wander down the page.
Haines Junction
Sure, Haines Junction is no secret, but trust us—it’s worth getting even more familiar. This charming village is the gateway to Kluane National Park and Reserve, home to Canada’s tallest peaks, icy glaciers, and wild expanses perfect for hiking, cycling, or soaking in the sheer vastness of nature from your lodge or campsite. The stunning Alsek River also flows through the area, offering opportunities for rafting and wildlife spotting.
While you’re there, don’t miss a chance to visit the cozy Village Bakery. Known for their famous summer salmon bakes with live music, this spot offers the perfect mix of Yukon flavors and homey vibes.
Haines Junction might be a known destination, but it’s a go-to for good reason. Explore it—and fall for it—all over again. Fun fact: If you time your visit just right, you can join local storytellers for music and tales around a firepit at Kathleen Lake with Parks Canada.
Did you know the Yukon also had a silver rush? (Not everything here is about gold!) If you’re curious to learn more about this lesser-known chapter of the Yukon’s past, head to the Binet House Museum in Mayo. The exhibits cover mining history, geology, permafrost science, and the Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation culture.
From Mayo, take the scenic drive to tiny Keno City and step into a wonderfully offbeat history book. Up for a little hike? Keno Hill offers sweeping views over the rugged surrounding landscape.
And if you like outdoor activities, the region has all sorts of adventures in store. Try fly-in fishing, rafting, or even swimming—a rare treat in these northern parts! Stop by Five Mile Lake, one of the warmest spots for a dip in the territory, with a campground nearby for those wanting to make it a weekend.
Tucked away in the small but spirited village of Carcross, you’ll find the Carving Shed, where local Tlingit and Tagish artists breathe life into traditional artforms. Stop in to see master carvers at work, creating vibrant totem poles and cultural pieces that tell the stories of the land and its people.
Carcross itself is bursting with charm. Wander through the Carcross Commons, where you’ll find local crafts, great coffee at Caribou Crossing Café, and souvenirs that actually mean something. If adventure is calling, don’t miss the nearby world-famous Carcross Desert, the “world’s tiniest desert,” or the amazing views at Montana Mountain, a trail mecca for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Between nature, art, and heartfelt Yukon hospitality, Carcross is a gem waiting to be explored.
Sure, Dawson City is steeped in Gold Rush history, and nowhere is this more moving than its historic cemeteries. The cemetery walking tour is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who shaped this iconic town. Stroll through rows of weathered headstones and hear the stories of prospectors, pioneers, and dreamers who built their lives in the North.
But Dawson City has more to offer beyond its resting places. After exploring the cemeteries, dive into local culture at the Dawson City Museum, where exhibits bring the Gold Rush era vividly to life. For a modern twist, enjoy local food and drink at spots like Bombay Peggy’s or BonTon & Co. Unwind with a scenic walk along the Yukon River, soaking in the stunning natural beauty.
For a touch of entertainment, head to Diamond Tooth Gerties, Canada’s oldest casino, where can-can dancers and old-school charm set the stage for a lively evening. Dawson City truly offers a rich mix of history, culture, and adventure—don’t miss your chance to explore it all.
thing matches the thrill of rafting down the Firth River, where the scenery is straight out of a nature documentary. Flowing from the British Mountains to the Beaufort Sea, this iconic river offers a front-row seat to Yukon’s incredible wildlife. Spot muskox, wolves, grizzlies, and more as you glide through wild landscapes that can’t be matched.
If you time it right, you may even witness the breathtaking migration of the Porcupine caribou herd, 200,000 strong. These majestic creatures graze and roam their way through this remote region, making for one unforgettable moment if you’re lucky enough to cross their path.
Booking through an Experience Provider is your best bet to make this adventure safe and seamless. (And no, the Arctic Ocean is not as cold when you’re this exhilarated.)
The Yukon is full of iconic experiences, but it’s the unexpected gems that make every trip unforgettable. Whether you’re hiking Kluane’s stunning trails, admiring intricate carvings in Carcross, or drifting along the Firth River, these unique stops are bound to bring something extraordinary to your adventure.
