About Yukon

Yukon is Canada's wild western frontier, a land of epic wilderness, gold rush history, and Indigenous cultures under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. This vast territory offers unparalleled adventure for those seeking raw natural beauty and solitude. The legendary Klondike Gold Rush comes alive in Dawson City, where you can stroll wooden boardwalks, try your hand at gold panning, and experience the quirky Sourtoe Cocktail. Whitehorse, the capital, serves as the gateway to Yukon's wonders with its vibrant arts scene and rich First Nations heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Kluane National Park, home to Canada's highest peak (Mount Logan) and massive icefields, perfect for hiking, flightseeing, and wildlife viewing. The Dempster Highway offers one of North America's great road trips, crossing the Arctic Circle to the remote community of Inuvik. Yukon's sparse population means dark skies perfect for aurora viewing from late August to April, while summer brings midnight sun and festivals celebrating music, culture, and the solstice. This is a destination for self-reliant travelers ready to embrace vast landscapes, frontier spirit, and profound connection with nature.

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Travel Tips for Yukon

Getting Around

A personal vehicle is essential for exploring outside Whitehorse. Car rentals are available in Whitehorse and Dawson City; book well in advance in summer. Consider 4x4 or vehicles with good clearance for gravel highways. Limited bus service connects some communities; Air North provides regional flights. Whitehorse has public transit, taxis, and bike rentals. No ride-sharing apps operate. For remote areas, guided tours or charter flights are recommended. Always check road conditions (511Yukon.ca) and carry emergency supplies when driving.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-June to mid-September offers the warmest weather (10-20°C), midnight sun, accessible roads, and most tourist services/activities. This is ideal for hiking, canoeing, and festivals. Late August to April is prime for Northern Lights viewing, with September-October offering fall colors and fewer bugs. Winter (December-March) is for aurora viewing, dog sledding, and winter sports, but with very cold temperatures (-20°C to -40°C) and limited daylight.

Local Customs

Yukoners value self-reliance, respect for wilderness, and community spirit. Dress is casual and practical; formal attire is rarely needed. Tipping follows Canadian norms: 15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxi drivers. Respect Indigenous cultures and lands; seek permission before entering private or traditional territories. Be friendly but respectful of people's space and privacy. Environmental stewardship is important; practice Leave No Trace principles. The Sourdough tradition (old-time residents) is celebrated; listen to local stories.

Safety Information

Yukon is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in Whitehorse and Dawson City. The main risks are environmental: always inform someone of your travel plans when venturing into wilderness. Carry emergency communication devices (satellite phone/PLB) when hiking, camping, or driving remote highways. Wildlife encounters (bears, moose) are common; carry bear spray and know how to use it. Road conditions can be challenging, especially on gravel highways like the Dempster; ensure your vehicle is suitable, carry spare tires, extra fuel, and emergency supplies. Winter driving requires extreme caution due to ice, snow, and limited services. No significant tourist scams reported.

Health Information

Yukon has limited medical facilities outside Whitehorse. Whitehorse General Hospital is the main facility; remote communities have nursing stations. Travelers should carry comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical evacuation. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Consider tick-borne encephalitis vaccination if hiking/camping in wooded areas from April-November. Be prepared for extreme cold in winter (frostbite, hypothermia) and strong sun in summer (sunburn). Bring any prescription medications in original containers. Mosquitoes and blackflies can be severe in summer; use insect repellent. Tap water is generally safe in communities.

Languages Spoken

EnglishFrench

Quick Facts

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)
$

Timezone

America/Whitehorse -08:00 (GMT) / -07:00 (GMT during Daylight Saving Time)

Calling Code

Electricity

Type A, B; 120V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

44,975

Area

482443 km²

Government

Territorial parliamentary government within the Canadian federation

ISO Code

CA-12

About Yukon

Things to do in Yukon

Northern Lights and Huskies

Fall Color Tour in Yukon from Whitehorse

Yukon Gold Experience feat. Emerald Lake & Carcross

Caribou Crossing Adventure Tour

Arctic Day: Hiking Tour | half day

The Best of Yukon City Private Tour

Half Day Private Guided Ice Fishing Trip in the Yukon

Yukon River Boat Tour Through Miles Canyon

Yukon Icefishing and Aurora Viewing Combo Trip

Yukon Aurora Viewing Package | 4 days

Whitehorse's Coziest Aurora Viewing Experience

Yukon Snowshoeing Adventure | half day

KLUANE NATIONAL PARK - Day-Trip from Whitehorse

Arctic Day: Yukon Wildlife & Hot Springs Tour | half day

Small Group Yukon Aurora Viewing

Places to visit in Yukon

Wingate

Motel 6 Oklahoma City- Airport

Americas Best Value Inn

Holiday Inn

Residence Inn

Extended Stay America

Four Points by Sheraton

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Home2 Suites

Travelers Inn & Suites

Best Western Plus

Hampton

Budget Inn

Sleep Inn & Suites Yukon Oklahoma City