Spring: Hike and go flightseeing
Hike
Whether you’re looking for a morning hike on an easy trail or an all-day trek in challenging unmarked wilderness, spring in the Yukon’s Whitehorse Region offers a diverse range of hiking experiences tailored to every level of explorer!
- Grey Mountain and Golden Horn Mountain: Visible from downtown Whitehorse, these mountains offer stunning hikes with panoramic views of spring blooms from opposite sides of the valley.
- The Millennium Trail: Running right through Whitehorse and featuring a paved five-kilometre loop, this trail is not only perfect for hiking but also walking, running, cycling, skateboards, scooters, rollerblades and wheelchairs. Thanks to its mostly flat, accessible path and beautiful river views, it’s an excellent choice for an active recovery day or if you’re just looking for something a little easier.
- Miles Canyon: For a dose of history, explore the trail along the Yukon River to Canyon City, once a First Nations fishing camp and then a bustling gold rush town. An old tram and interpretive signs will help you imagine what life would have been like back then.
Go flightseeing
If you’re looking for a unique way to soak in the stunning scenery, why not take to the sky on a flightseeing adventure? It’s the perfect way to experience the Yukon from a whole new perspective – you’ll get to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Whitehorse, the surrounding wilderness and spectacular sights like the Southern Lakes. Who knows? Your aerial perspective might inspire your next trail to hike or mountain to climb later in your trip!
Summer: Hike, paddle and explore First Nations’ heritage
Enjoying the Yukon in the summer means making the most of the long daylight hours under the midnight sun. With plenty of time for unforgettable hiking, paddling and cultural exploration, you can fill your days with active adventures and discoveries.
Explore the Kluane Region
The Kluane Region is home to 17 of Canada’s 20 tallest mountains, including Mount Logan—the country’s highest peak and the second tallest in North America. Although you can only see Mount Logan from the air during a flightseeing adventure on a clear day, the Kluane Region offers countless hikes and trails that will take you to new heights and showcase the breathtaking alpine landscape.
Spot wildlife from the Dezdeash River Trail
If you’re staying near Haines Junction and prefer not to venture far, the Dezadeash River Trail is an excellent choice. This easy, well-marked path winds through wetlands, meadows and forest along the river. It’s perfect for spotting wildlife like birds, moose and beavers!
Experience incredible views from Kathleen Lake trails
From the moment you arrive, these hiking trails showcase stunning views. The Kokanee Trail offers a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk along the lakeshore that’s perfect for a leisurely 10- to 30-minute stroll or roll. For a more challenging adventure, hike on the King’s Throne Trail, which starts at the lake and continues up to a glacial cirque, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic vistas.
Paddle and raft at Kluane National Park and Reserve
At an impressive 81 kilometres long, Kluane Lake offers endless opportunities to discover its breathtaking surroundings by canoe or kayak. You can also experience the thrill of rafting on the Alsek and Tatshenshini Rivers, which flow around and through Kluane National Park and Reserve. Just remember to check the weather conditions before heading out because winds and waves can pick up quickly.
Explore First Nations’ heritage and culture
If you’re in or near Haines Junction, don’t miss these must-visit stops, where you’ll discover Kluane Region’s First Nations’ heritage and cultural experiences:
- Da Kų Cultural Centre and Kluane National Park Visitor Centre: Located in Haines Junction, Da Kų, meaning “our house”, is the heart of Champagne and Aishihik First Nations’ culture. Explore award-winning exhibits, read or hear traditional stories and view interactive displays that bring the land and its people to life. The centre also houses the Parks Canada Visitor Centre, where you can get expert advice and plan your Kluane Region adventures.
- Yukon Government Visitor Information Centre: Also in Haines Junction, this centre is your go-to spot for local tips, maps and highlights, including pieces from the Yukon Permanent Art Collection.
- Long Ago Peoples Place: For a more immersive, walkable experience, venture 30 to 40 minutes from Haines Junction to Long Ago Peoples Place. This outdoor interpretive site offers guided tours that share the traditions, survival skills and stories of Southern Tutchone ancestors, set in a recreated traditional village.
Whether you’re exploring exhibits or walking in the footsteps of the Kluane Region’s First Nations, these experiences will offer you a deeper connection to the Yukon’s vibrant cultures – all while keeping you moving!
Autumn: Golf, mountain bike and hike
The Yukon explodes with colour in the fall, from the bright orange, yellow and red leaves, to the mystical blue and green northern lights. You’ll find yourself ooing and aahing at the Klondike Region’s natural beauty.
Tee off at Dawson City Golf Course
In early September, experience golfing at the epic Dawson City Golf Course, which combines warm local hospitality, beautiful northern panoramas and even the chance to spot some wildlife.
Mountain bike at Midnight Dome
The mountain biking trails at Midnight Dome are a must for anyone visiting the Klondike Region. The Paydirt and Dome Dive trails are ideal for seasoned riders, but there are also plenty of intermediate options for downhill, all-mountain and cross-country biking, like Hammarstrand and Dish Pig trails.
Hike at Ridge Road Heritage Trail
Love long-haul trails? The Ridge Road Heritage Trail near Dawson City is a 30-kilometre historic route with gold rush artifacts, stunning views from King Solomon’s Dome, and trailheads accessible from both Callison Industrial area and Bonanza Creek Rd. It’s perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers!
Winter: Snowshoe, ski, see the northern lights and unwind in hot springs
Winter in the Yukon is packed with adventure, and the hardest part is deciding what to do first. From northern lights viewings to snowshoeing and skiing, there’s no shortage of ways to get active and embrace the frosty fun!
Snowshoe
Snowshoeing is a timeless way to explore the Yukon’s winter wonderland – just strap on a pair of snowshoes and walk on top of the snow, following peaceful trails to frozen lakes and stunning views. Join a guided tour, connect with a local operator or stay at a cozy lodge. Each option lets you experience the magic of the season by snowshoe.
Ski
Whitehorse has over 85 kilometres of world-class cross-country ski trails that take you through the snowy scenery of Mount McIntyre. No matter your experience level, you’ll find routes ranging from gentle loops to more challenging terrain, all just minutes from downtown!
For downhill thrills, Mount Sima is the perfect spot. Just 15 minutes from Whitehorse, this family-friendly ski hill offers a variety of runs for all skill levels, from the bunny hill for beginners to black diamond trails for the more adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
See the northern lights
Chasing the northern lights (aka “aurora borealis”) in the Yukon is pure magic! The best time to catch them is during the first few weeks of winter under dark, clear skies. By exploring snowy trails or venturing just outside city limits, you’ll find that the combination of physical activity and nature creates an unforgettable way to witness the aurora borealis dancing across the night sky!
Unwind in hot springs
After a day filled with winter adventures, don’t miss the chance to unwind at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. Just outside Whitehorse, this tranquil spot offers a series of outdoor hot pools, steam rooms and saunas nestled in the boreal forest. It’s the perfect way to warm up and relax your muscles after a day in the snow. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the northern lights shimmering overhead while you soak in the mineral-rich waters!
We hope this blog post brings together everything you need to start planning your own journey. Whether you’re seeking wild landscapes, vibrant culture or unforgettable adventures, there’s a season for everyone!
Ready to make room to move and create your own Yukon active adventure? Start planning your trip today with Air North, Yukon’s Airline! Get 20% off your flights to Whitehorse (YXY) for travel between May 20 and December 18, 2025. Simply use promo code ACTION20 when you book by May 31, 2025. Learn more about the promotion and book today at www.flyairnorth.com/participaction.
