Summer, fall, winter, spring. There’s always something going on in the Yukon that you’ve just got to see, do, or experience. Need some suggestions? Let’s start with the favorites.
Northern lights: late summer to spring
If you’re thinking, “But isn’t the aurora borealis a winter thing?” you’re sort of right. This is a must-see in anyone’s lifetime, and it happens for a solid chunk of the year.
Dan Carr
So you have no reason to miss it. The light show begins in mid-August and goes all the way till mid-April. The best viewing time is between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. It also pairs well with a snuggle buddy and hot cocoa.
Wolfgang Bublitz
Dog sledding: late fall to early spring
For all you dog lovers out there, Christmas comes early in the Yukon with dog sledding adventure packages available as early as the end of October.
Sheena Greenlaw
That means you can be dashing through the snow well before the holidays. Just don’t start carolling that early.
Hiking, biking, and water sports season: summer
When summer is here, so is every amazing activity under the sun. The days are long, the views are far and wide, and the trails just keep going. Many of these hiking and biking routes have historical or cultural significance as First Nations footpaths or gold rush trails.
YG/Cathie Archbould
Canoeing and kayaking are also popular on the rivers and the many, many, many lakes in the territory. We recommend the Yukon River, Teslin River, Wind River, Southern Lakes, Watson Lake and many, many, many more.
YG/Cathie Archbould
Snowshoeing and skiing season: winter
If you get snowed in up here, you’re not doing winter right. With all outdoor activities, you have no excuse to sit around twiddling your thumbs.
YG/Cathie Archbould
Snowshoeing in Kluane National Park and Reserve, cross-country skiing on Mount McIntyre, downhill skiing on Mount Sima, or fat biking at Grey Mountain—it’s all in season. You can even kill two birds with one stone (not literally please) by cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing all at once as you glide along the fence of the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.
YG/Mark Kelly
Camping: summer
Come summertime, there are countless campsites all over the territory where you can struggle with setting up your tent. From Dawson City to Whitehorse to way off the beaten track, there’s no shortage of spots to set up camp. It’s also the perfect time to take home on the road with an RV tour.
Rachel Bertsch
Highways like the Klondike or Alaska Highway are wide open, and wildlife are usually out and about and spottable from the road. So take it easy on the gas pedal here, Turbo. This limitless stretch of highway is a Sunday driver’s dream.
@everlasting_mountain_wonder (IG)
Relaxation: all the time
Whether it’s summer, fall, winter or spring, the Yukon has endless ways to relax all year long. From June to August, sunbathing in the Southern Lakes Region is a must with endless scenic shorelines to choose from.
Yukon Wild
“But what about winter?” you ask. The Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs is your magical hot spot during our coldest spells. But if you’re craving a uniquely Yukon city experience with a little peace and quiet mixed in, Whitehorse is full of rejuvenating options for yoga fans and spa lovers visiting the big capital.
