Yukon

A staggering 80% of Yukon is pristine wilderness. It’s impressive that this Canadian territory is home to Mount Logan, Canada’s highest mountain, as well as Kluane National Park which is one of the world’s largest non-polar icefields and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but these landmarks represent just the start of its overall attraction.

Hiking and biking are everyday pursuits when exploring the iconic wilderness parks of Kluane, Tombstone, Herschel Island, Chilkoot, Ivvavik and Fishing Branch. The famous Alsek, Tatchenshini, Snake, Wind, Firth and Yukon Rivers in addition to countless crystal clear lakes provide for leisurely days kayaking, sailing or canoeing, not to mention some quite legendary fishing, believed by many to be the best in the world.

The statistics are quite staggering! Roughly the size of France, Yukon has a tiny population of just 41,000 people, the majority of whom are concentrated around the largest city of Whitehorse. Compare this to its non-human counterparts: 160,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzly bears, 10,000 black bears and over 250 species of birds, and it brings into perspective how sensational it is for wildlife watching.

Home to three national parks, six territorial parks and four Canadian Heritage Rivers, Yukon’s unique geographic landscape and varied eco-systems allow its wildlife to thrive with little threat. All three North American bears: Black, Grizzly and Polar, reside in the Yukon, in fact this is the most stable Grizzly habitat in North America and home to 30% of the continents population. The thick crops of berries and seasonal salmon runs provide the perfect feeding preparation for their long winter hibernation.

Paddle pristine rivers, spot wildlife and hike endless trails under the midnight sun. Yukon is the land of the midnight sun, where parks are plentiful, skies are glorious and summer light never fades.

Watch this short video to whet your appetite.

Try your hand at gold panning and explore Dawson City, Yukon under the midnight sun. Hear stories of the Klondike Gold Rush, visit Robert Service’s cabin and travel the Yukon River on a paddle wheeler.

The following video gives an insight into Yukon's Gold Rush history and how you can explore it for yourself.

The Yukon may be famous for its gold rush history, stunning wilderness and phenomenal aurora viewing opportunities, but there is also a rich and diverse Indigenous culture that visitors can immerse themselves into. Some of the earliest evidence of the presence of humans in North America, more than 12,000 years ago, was uncovered in the Yukon. Through historic sites, vibrant celebrations and interesting locals, visitors can experience cultures dating back untold centuries and connect with First Nations people across the territory.