Last winter, I took the leap and booked West Trek’s 3-day Yukon Ultimate Adventure Tour, ready to dive headfirst into the magic of the North. Spoiler: it was unforgettable! Winter was in full swing, and we got to experience this breathtaking region by participating on traditional activities in the snow. Keep reading to find out the best way to explore the Yukon, some insider tips, and what makes this territory so special.
Why the Yukon Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Yukon is unlike anywhere else in Canada, an unparalleled destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Here are just a few reasons why it should be on your travel radar:
– Breathtaking Wilderness: The territory alone is as big as Spain, and over 80% of the Yukon remains untouched, offering pristine forests, lakes, and never-ending mountains. In the winter, the lakes are frozen and the glistening snow covers the region for a mesmerizing view.
– Rich Indigenous Heritage: Home to 14 unique First Nations, the Yukon has been inhabited for over 12,000 years, and it boasts a rich history and vibrant traditions.
– Gold Rush Legacy: The Klondike Gold Rush transformed this region into a historical icon.
– Moose Outnumber People: With a population of around 40,000 people and 70,000 moose, the Yukon promises a genuine off-the-grid experience with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife (from a safe distance!).
– Unreal Natural Phenomena: The Aurora Borealis illuminates the Yukon’s night skies around 300 nights per year, particularly during winter, an incredible spectacle that’s worth every frosty minute outdoors. During the summer months, the Midnight Sun will have you exploring the outdoors for 24 hours in broad daylight!
– Never-ending Adventures: From dog sledding to hiking glaciers, the Yukon’s rugged landscapes call out explorers all year long.
Your Ultimate Yukon Adventure: A Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Food, Fun, and Aurora Watching
The journey began at Vancouver International Airport, where we met our guide, Chris, to check in as a group. The 2.5-hour flight to Whitehorse with Air North was a treat – unlike anything I’ve experienced on larger airlines: sandwiches, free drinks, and a warm cookie? Yes, please! Small, locally owned companies truly take great care of their customers. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the lodge staff for a cozy transfer to our accommodation, located 40 minutes away from the city’s light pollution, near a forest and a large, frozen lake.
After getting our very comfortable rooms sorted, the evening kicked off with a delicious homemade dinner prepared by the in-house chef — lasagna, fresh salad, and a chocolate cake, all served family-style at our table. Chris led some icebreaker games, and we shared some laughs while we got to know our fellow adventurers. The lodge offers complimentary self-service of hot drinks 24 hours a day, so it was easy to stay up until late, and chat with the group while we waited for the Auroras to show up.
Later, we stepped outside for our first taste of Yukon magic. Wrapped in our clean Arctic clothing rental -included in the tour and provided by the lodge-, we stayed warm around a campfire, roasting s’mores and swapping stories. S’mores are a typical Canadian treat consisting of a melted marshmallow in a sandwich of butter biscuit and chocolate – needless to say it is very yummy! Some of us even tried tobogganing under the moonlight, and some chose to go into the hot tub, available to use at any time. Finally, though the sky was partially cloudy, we were lucky to witness the faint glow of the Northern Lights—a magical sneak peek of what was to come.
Day 2: Yukon Sightseeing, Dog Sledding, and Northern Lights
Morning greeted us with pitch-black skies (February sunrises don’t happen until after 10 am!), but a hearty breakfast of fresh pastries, fruits, eggs and more, lightened up the day and fueled us up. Our first stop was Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, where we witnessed the sun rising behind the mountains, painting the skies in shades of pink and yellow, and casting a magical glow over the snowy landscape. Walking on the frozen lake was so much fun, and we had some free time to explore the small community town, full of Gold Rush staples and Indigenous artifacts. Back at the lodge, chef Marion had prepared a delicious and comforting lunch of soup with crackers, cheese and veggies. Then, we set off to our next activity, and the highlight of the day: dog sledding.
Most of the group had booked the dog sledding activity because, when else are you gonna do it? This is a cherished Indigenous tradition in the Yukon, and the sled dogs are well cared for. We could count on a trusted, local supplier that sticks to the highest animal welfare standards to provide an ethical and authentic experience. When we arrived at the dog kennel, we got to spend time getting to know the huskies, and had plenty of dog cuddles – they were so adorable! The owners take care of all of their dogs, even when they are too old to run, so they can retire peacefully at home.
Paired into teams, and after going over all the safety regulations, we got to guide our own sleds along a 5-km loop, rather than sitting on the sled with a guide driving it. What a great surprise! The experience was nothing short of exhilarating. With the wind in my face and the huskies leading the charge, I felt an unparalleled connection to the wild, it was a moment of pure adventure and freedom. The pristine landscapes of the Yukon were breathtaking as we glided over the snow-covered terrain. Overall, it was one of those “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences we read about, and if you too want to make that dream a reality, my advice is to head over to the Yukon!
The whole group got back to the lodge completely thrilled. We relaxed in the hot tub, reflecting on the day’s adventures under the open sky, and embracing the feeling of being off the grid and into the wilderness. Dinner was another culinary delight, and then, the moment we were all waiting for: the Northern Lights. This time, they showed up and danced vividly across the sky, filling it with green, pink, and purple hues, and gifting us a unique and unforgettable spectacle that will live rent-free in my head for life.
Day 3: Farewell, Yukon!
On our final day, we enjoyed a slow morning after the previous night’s show, and had a buffet-style breakfast. After one last look at the stunning wilderness, and a homemade group lunch to recap on our adventure, we headed to Whitehorse Airport for our return flight to Vancouver with Air North. The journey home was filled with shared memories and promises to return. We also had the chance to meet a few locals and learn more about their way of life in the True North!
Lessons from The Yukon Territory: Nature, Connection, and Adventure
As we boarded our plane, I reflected on the trip. From the laughter around the campfire and the tranquility of the frozen lakes to the thrill of dog sledding and Aurora hunting, this journey captured the essence of the Yukon: calm, wild, and unforgettable. It reminded me that the best experiences in life are the ones that are unpredictable and shared with others. More than anything, it reinforced the importance of appreciating and preserving our planet so that future generations can enjoy these same wonders.
What I appreciated most about this trip was the quality time spent with friends. In our busy lives, uninterrupted moments to simply be together—free from the distractions of technology or work—are rare. In the Yukon, we reconnected, laughed, and shared experiences that deepened our friendships. It was a reminder that adventure isn’t just about the places you visit, but the people you experience them with.
The Yukon offers more than just breathtaking landscapes—it offers a chance to step out of your comfort zone, to embrace nature, and to create unforgettable memories. A trip to this incredible territory stays with you long after you’ve left. If you’re considering this journey, take the leap—you won’t regret it!
Why Choose West Trek for Your Yukon Tour?
The Yukon Ultimate Adventure Tour by West Trek goes above and beyond to create an unforgettable all-inclusive experience, so you can focus on enjoying every moment without having to worry about planning. You can count on expert guides that provide an authentic local experience, personalized service for your small group, and rest assured that sustainable tourism practices and strict safety standards are being met. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime and book your trip to the Yukon with West Trek today!
Insider Tips to Visit the Yukon
- When to visit: For the best Northern Lights sightings, plan your trip between late November and March.
- What to pack: Layered clothing, insulated boots, and a camera are must-haves.
- Stay flexible: The Yukon’s weather can change quickly, so embrace the unexpected!
