Whitehorse Area

Life In The Cold – Guided Hike With Nature Interpretation, Yukon

Departing from Whitehorse, this two-hour walk through Yukon’s boreal forest takes you along a creek and to the banks of the Yukon River. While walking along the trail you may see some of the birds and animals that live here. Your guide will give you information about wintering strategies such as migration, hibernation, and resistance in animals and plants that make the boreal forest their home. Bring your winter cloth and your camera. You will have the opportunity to take extraordinary pictures of a frosty environment and an iced-over creek!

Inclusions:
~ Transfers
~ Guided walk
~ Hot drinks and cookies

Tour departs from the Whitehorse area. Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

The Ultimate Winter Experience from Whitehorse, Yukon

The ultimate winter experience – be prepared for an afternoon filled with great activities.

Snow Shoeing: They try to walk as the old-timers and trappers do. You’ll find out soon that this mode of transportation is lots of fun – and hard work. So work up a sweat and go into the deep snow to break trail.

Dog Sledding: Ride with an experienced dog musher and enjoy the ride on the sled pulled by a strong team of well-trained huskies. Experience the beautiful winter landscape from your sled.

Snow Machine: Again, let yourself be introduced to these fun machines and drive on a groomed trail. You’ll be amazed, how easy it is to get hooked to the fun of a snow machine.

Surprise Events: We will offer you other entertaining activities like snow tobogganing.

*Please note: You will be passengers on the dog sled as well as the snowmobile*

Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Aurora Borealis Night Tour from Whitehorse

To the north, an eerie, sulfurous sheen begins to ripple into the night sky. It arcs itself into an ebb and flows, slowly growing, then suddenly bursts across the full expanse of the night sky waving and dancing as if it were happy. It’s the spectacular and mystical Northern Lights and viewings such as the one above are common in the Yukon. Northern Lights viewing activities take place outside the city. A heated, cozy cabin or wall tent is available for your comfort. Hot drinks and snacks are provided.

Itinerary: 
You will be picked up at your hotel at 10 pm. You will then be driven for about 25 minutes to the heated viewing facility out of town to avoid the disturbing lights of the city (light pollution). At the viewing site, they offer hot drinks and snacks. There will be a campfire outside as well for you to sit around, roast marsh mallows and enjoy the quiet and clear winter night and of course the breathtaking Aurora Borealis displays. At around 2:30 am you will return to your hotel.

• All transfers by van including English speaking driver/guide
• 1 night of guided Aurora watching at heated wall tent or log cabin, including hot drinks, snacks, and campfire

Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Ice Fishing And Snowshoeing, Yukon

After a short drive to a frozen lake, you will be shown how to walk on snowshoes. Using fishing equipment provided, you will walk onto the ice of the lake where you will fish through a hole in the ice. With some luck, you will catch a Lake Trout or Grayling and pull it up through the hole.

Tours depart from Whitehorse. Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Full & Half Day Snowmobiling from Whitehorse, Yukon

Choose to spend a full or half day learning to, and then operating a snowmobile! Departing from Whitehorse, you will be driven to the start site and introduced to the machine, its operation and safe use. Next you will have a trial run with your instructor, before taking on the machine for yourself and traversing the Yukons trails, surrounded by beautiful winter landscapes. Full day tours include lunch and a hot drink. 

Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Yukon Wildlife Preserve & Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, Yukon

Enjoy a tour to the fantastic Yukon Wildlife Preserve, a large wildlife preserve close to nature. It hosts all the Far North’s animals except for bears, which must not be kept in preserves by law. You will spot bison, elk, Dall sheep, mountain goats, polar foxes, caribous, lynxes and many more. You can either explore the preserve by foot or opt for a guided bus tour.

After hopefully having seen, watched and photographed all the preserve’s animals, you will then visit the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, where we can relax in the hot springs’ mineral water for an hour. Please don’t forget to bring your trunks or swimming suit and a towel.

This tour departs from the Whitehorse area. Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Whitehorse City & Nature Tour

Your tour begins aboard the SS Klondike, a historic paddle-wheeler ship that played an essential role in the Gold Rush era. Enjoy stunning views of the Yukon River and learn about the Klondike’s fascinating history. Next, visit the wooden fish ladder, where you might be able to observe salmon as they make their way upstream to spawn. Then, journey to Miles Canyon, where the turbulent rapids and striking canyon walls offer breathtaking scenery.

As you explore the city, be sure to take in the impressive murals adorning many of the buildings, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. Lastly, visit the Old Log Church, the oldest building in Whitehorse. This charming church offers a glimpse into the past and is a testament to the perseverance of the early settlers. Throughout your tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide insight into Whitehorse’s history and natural beauty, making this an unforgettable experience for nature and history lovers alike.

Pick-up is available from downtown Whitehorse hotels. Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Canoe & Kayak Multi-day Experiences

Up North Adventures is a Yukon family owned and operated company which has been in business since 1991. They offer prompt, helpful, friendly, personalized service and are designed to fit a wide range of abilities, budgets and timelines. A member of the Wilderness Tourism Association of the Yukon, they follow the current Code of Conduct in the Wilderness, operating under the best environmental practices, ensuring the Yukon stays clean and healthy for future generations of animals and humans.

As well as offering a number of guided canoe and kayak day tours, they operate multi-day tours along a variety of routes. We have provided outlines of each below:

Sam McGees Tour – Yukon River

From Whitehorse to Carmacks
Duration: 10 Days
Distance: 320 km’s
Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Description: Experience the natural wonders and historical relics of the Klondike Gold Rush. On this 320km trip you will paddle through famous Lake Laberge and the Thirty Mile River. You will get a chance to stop and explore abandoned settlements like Lower Laberge, an old telegraph post, and Hootalinqua, an historic NWMP outpost. On this adventure there will be excellent opportunities to see moose, black bears, bald eagles, beaver and other Yukon wildlife along the banks.
Includes: Certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes and equipment, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up and drop off in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Call of the Wild – Yukon River

From Carmacks to Dawson
Duration: 12 Days
Distance: 402 km’s
Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Description: On this famous paddle you will follow the call of the wild and explore one of the most important rivers during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 – the Yukon River. This exciting 415km paddle from Carmacks to Dawson you will get a chance to run the famous 5 Finger Rapids and explore the first Euroamerican settlement on the upper Yukon River at Fort Selkirk. On its stretch to Dawson City the river widens and accommodates for a lot of islands which break up the river width and make for an interesting landscape. These islands make a great habitat for moose and other wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, wolves, caribous, bald eagles and beavers!
Includes: Certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes and equipment, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Dawson City, 1 day and night in Dawson City, entrance fee to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Show in Dawson City, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, Tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Yukon River Expedition – Yukon River

From Whitehorse to Dawson
Duration: 19 Days
Distance: 742 km’s
Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Description: Follow the traces of the 1898 Gold Rush on the famous Yukon River and enjoy a unique paddling adventure! On this exciting trip you will be able to explore old dredges, prospector cabins, relics of sternwheelers and other remains of this influential era in the Yukon Territory. This trip is the perfect choice for everyone looking for beautiful scenery, unique experiences and a rich history with lots of amazing sites to stop at along the way. You will depart from downtown Whitehorse for your destination: Dawson City! Spend the afternoon getting to know your boat and practicing your paddling techniques before you get to enjoy your first campfire on the shore and a rich dinner in the evening. You’ll paddle down Lake Laberge which showcases beautiful scenery. Along your way to Carmacks, you will get a chance to explore Hootalinqua, an historic Northwest Mounted Police outpost. Keep your eyes peeled for grizzly bear, wolves, caribous and moose along the way and make sure you have your cameras ready at all times! Approximately two weeks after your departure from Whitehorse, you arrive in Dawson City. Spend the afternoon strolling through the small town that once was the center of one of the world’s largest gold rushes and enjoy the many historic sites and old buildings. After dinner, head to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall for a night of entertainment in “1898 style” to celebrate the final evening of this incredible trip.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse during business hours, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Dawson City, 1 day and night in Dawson City, entrance fee to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Show in Dawson City, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Teslin River

Duration: 10 Days
Distance: 370 km’s
Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Description: The Teslin River offers a scenic and historic paddle with excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Explore remnants of old cabins, paddle wheelers, and various buildings from the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. Having passed the arduous trek over the Chilkoot Trail, stampeders could choose between the Teslin and the Yukon River to find their way to the gold fields in the North. With the challenging Whitehorse Rapids at that time the Teslin River was a welcome and less challenging route to take. You depart by van to Johnson’s Crossing – the start of your trip. Scenic mountain views surround you as you paddle down the river. There is great wildlife viewing opportunities along the way and chances are good that you get to see bears, moose, beavers, foxes and bald eagles. You’ll stop to explore some of the historic sites on our way to Carmacks and finally reach the confluence of the famous Yukon River. The last few days provide the chance to enjoy this majestic river before arriving in the Village of Carmacks at the end of your trip.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip. 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Nisutlin River

Duration: 7 Days
Distance: 130 km’s
Difficulty: Beginners
Description: The Nisutlin River is one of the few south flowing rivers in the Yukon River watershed. Nisutlin means “quiet water” in the ancient Tlingit tongue and this slow moving river has plenty of it. Along the banks of the Nisutlin you will find some of the largest trees in the Yukon and lurking amongst them may be wolf or a moose. During August and September watch for grizzly bears as they seek out the salmon that are making their way through the tributaries of this river. Large sandy shores found on many river bends provide excellent camping sites. You’ll depart by van to Nisutlin Landing, and once everyone is set up and ready to go you’ll explore this beautiful river by canoe. Watch for wildlife along the way, an incredible number of moose and waterfowl call this region their home. If you are an angler, take advantage of world class fishing opportunities on this trip. Each night you will relax on shore, listen to the sounds of a crackling campfire and, if our anglers are lucky, feast on their catch of the day. After paddling Nisutlin Bay, you’ll arrive in Teslin Village and the end of this Nisutlin River trip. A shuttle will meet you and return you to Whitehorse.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on the river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after the trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Big Salmon River

Duration: 15 Days
Distance: 355 km’s
Difficulty: Intermediate – Class II Rapids
Description: The Big Salmon River offers great challenges for intermediate paddlers as you will need to manoeuvre around tight corners and through large standing waves. The current is generally moderate as it twists and turns northwest towards the Yukon River. An exhilarating paddle if you want to experience a truly remote wilderness expedition and pristine vistas. The van departs for Quiet Lake, a scenic four-hour drive, and the start of your adventure. You’ll start with basic canoe instructions and moving water techniques. You’ll paddle across Quiet, Sandy and Big Salmon Lakes en route to the mouth of the Big Salmon River. Beautiful mountain ridges surround you while paddling pristine waters that wind through the home of moose, bear, wolves, eagles and salmon. Leaving the lakes behind, the river twists and turns until it finally reaches the Yukon River. Enjoy this unique and untouched landscape and hopefully spot some wildlife along the way. Finally, you arrive in Carmacks at the end of our Big Salmon River adventure. After the van is loaded you return to Whitehorse.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip. 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Pelly River

Duration: 10 Days
Distance: 298 km’s
Difficulty: Intermediate Paddler
Description: Experience the untouched natural splendour, Class II rapids, and wildlife of the Pelly River. Your adventure begins in the town of Faro located in the gorgeous Pelly Mountains and delivers you close to 300kms later in Pelly Crossing. The Pelly River challenges intermediate paddlers as you encounter Class II rapids, including both the Little Fish Hook and Big Fish Hook Rapids, Granite Canyon, and Needlerock Creek. The current is swift and makes for an incredible ride as it winds it’s way west towards the Yukon River. Following the gear check, you depart by van to Faro and the start of your adventure, which is about a five-hour drive past some amazing scenery. Day two introduces you to the wonderful world of white-water with a lesson or review of white-water techniques and safety. Your experienced guide will navigate you safely through these exciting waters. The Pelly River provides excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife such as bears, wolves, and caribou or a chance for anglers to experience world class fishing. Numerous Class I and II rapids make for a thrilling ride set against a backdrop of beautiful mountain landscapes. On your final day you end your adventure in Pelly Crossing and return by van to Whitehorse.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Wind River

Duration: 15 Days
Distance: 200 km’s
Difficulty: Intermediate Paddler – Whitewater Class II
Description: As one of the major waterways of the Peel Watershed and one of North America’s most intact natural ecosystems, this region of mountains, deep canyons, plateaus, wetlands and rolling hills will take your breath away! The Wind River offers exciting and friendly class I-II whitewater canoeing for intermediate paddlers. Your guide will ensure that you safely maneuver the whitewater and have an exciting paddle through the rapids. During your trip you will have the opportunity to take a break from paddling to hike the vast and beautiful wilderness of the Wernecke Mountains. These hikes offer spectacular panoramic views of the Wind River and its tributaries. Your guide will stop along the river in areas well-known for viewing wildlife, such as wolves, Dall sheep and woodland caribou. If you are a bird viewing enthusiast, then take time to explore the extensive wetlands. Keep an eye out for the soaring Peregrine falcons and other birds of prey that nest along the high ridges.
Includes: Airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse (during regular business hours), fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the river, float plane ride to river and pickup after the river trip, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle drop-off in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Snake River

Duration: 15 Days
Distance: 300 km’s
Difficulty: Experienced canoeist – Whitewater Class II-III
Description: The Snake River is located in the heart of the Yukon Territory and one of the famous rivers of the Peel Watershed. It drains from the Wernecke Mountains along the Yukon/NWT border into the alluring Peel River. The Snake River offers some of the most picturesque and pristine hiking and paddling found anywhere in the Yukon. Part of the allure of the Snake River is its accessibility by float plane only and its closeness to the Arctic Circle. Experience the wonders of the Midnight Sun and use the extra daylight hours to explore and hike the surrounding mountains. Your guide will take you on hikes up mountain ridges to reach panoramic viewpoints over the vast Snake River valley and beyond. As you paddle your way down the Snake, keep an eye out for soaring Peregrine falcons. You’ll also be travelling through the habitats of woodland caribou, Dall sheep and grizzly bears. The Snake is rated class II-III whitewater, requires advanced paddling skills and lots of rock dodging.
Includes: Fully certified, knowledgeable and experienced river guide, rental and transportation of canoes, paddles and life jackets, overland shuttle to and from the float plane base, float plane rides to river and pickup after the river trip, safety equipment including satellite phone, all meals while on river, airport shuttle pick-up in Whitehorse, 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse prior to trip. 1 night hotel accommodation in Whitehorse after trip, tents, cooking and shared camping equipment.

Muktuk Husky Adventures from Whitehorse

Muktuk Adventures welcomes guests of all ages and interests to share an authentic Yukon experience. If you’ve ever dreamt of sledding across a frozen river topped with untouched snow on a perfectly clear winter day, Muktuk Adventures can turn that dream into reality. The Takhini Valley has a profound effect on the human soul. Surrounded by low-lying mountain ranges where the only sound you hear is your dog team, running at a modest pace as they love to do, and perhaps the call of an eagle or a raven nearby. Located twenty minutes from Whitehorse, there are multiple duration activities to choose from including multi-day and single-day tours. Mushing activities are available from November to April, whilst the snow sustains the activity. Between May and September, day tours with the dogs, hiking, canoeing, and horse riding are available, whilst dog training runs and hiking are on the calendar during September and October.

Kluane National Park Day Tour from Whitehorse

Visiting the UNESCO-listed Kluane National Park is a highlight of a trip to the Yukon, but getting to and around this extreme landscape can be intimidating for visitors. Skip the hassle of planning your own trip by joining this guided tour that takes you to Kathleen Lake, to the Rock Glacier for a short hike and to the Indigenous Klukshu Village and the Da Kų Cultural Centre.

• Day tour from Whitehorse to Kluane National Park: Skip the hassle of travel planning
• Visit multiple landmarks in a single day tour: Ideal for those with limited time
• Learn about the park’s landscapes and history from your guide
• Includes a bag lunch: No need to bring your own

Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Guided Canoe & Kayak Day Tours from Whitehorse

Enjoy a guided canoe or kayak tour and let the knowledgeable guides show you how beautiful the Yukon River really is.

You will be picked up from your accommodation and return once the day is done. Full day trips include a catered northern lunch, while half days include a snack and refreshments.

Eagle Tour

Canoe down the historic Yukon River and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Paddle from Whitehorse to the confluence of the Takhini River. A great half day choice for beginner paddlers.

Duration: 4 hours

Bucket List

Enjoy a whole days paddle from Whitehorse close to the beginning of Lake Laberge. A perfect way to enjoy a Yukon summer day!

Duration: 6 hours

History 101: Miles Canyon

Canoe this famous stretch of the Yukon River – from the end of Marsh Lake, through Miles Canyon and Schwatka Lake to Whitehorse. This is recommended for canoeists with at least some experience.

Duration: 8 hours

Contact us for the operating schedule and pricing.

Aurora Borealis Multi-day Winter Packages from Whitehorse

• 2 nights accommodation in Whitehorse in a 3 Star Hotel
• 2 nights at the Aurora Inn in Dawson City
• Breakfasts and dinners in Dawson City
• Airport transfers, introduction, Aurora Borealis Viewing and assistance
• 2 nights of guided Aurora Viewing in Whitehorse at Northern Tales Trading Post (including hot drinks and snacks)
• 2 nights of guided Aurora Viewing in Dawson City (including hot drinks and snacks)
• City Tour of Dawson City
• Dawson City historic walking tour
• All transfers as per itinerary include English speaking driver
• Round Trip airfare (from Whitehorse to Dawson City to Whitehorse)

Day 1 – You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your Hotel in downtown Whitehorse. The hotel is located within walking distance of all attractions, restaurants, banks, and stores. There will be an informational meeting and registration for optional tours at the hotel. Take your time for fitting the winter clothing (optional but recommended), shopping and dinner on your own. At 10pm departure for Aurora viewing. A cozy, heated cabin or wall tent with hot drinks and snacks make your Aurora viewing even more enjoyable. You will return to the hotel around 3am.

Day 2 – Today you will be flying to the world famous Gold Rush town – the historic town of Dawson City. Your flight departs Whitehorse at 8.15am and your hotel shuttle bus will bring you to the airport about 1.5-2 hours prior to departure. You will be greeted when you get off the plane in Dawson City by a long time resident and local expert and culture and history. Located at the mouth of the confluence of the Klondike and the mighty Yukon rivers, Dawson City is a site rich in Tr’ondek Hwech’in and gold mining culture, complete with a modern day mining economy, vibrant tourism, and arts scene. Upon arrival into town, you will check in to the Aurora Inn where you will be personally greeted by the owners. The experience at the Aurora Inn includes the most comfortable rooms in Dawson City, freshly prepared dinners and breakfasts with the chance to meet the chef, and top-notch hospitality. Now the real adventure begins. Each night you will get a chance to witness the magnificent Aurora Borealis display in the late night sky. You will be taken to the owner’s homestead property where small group sizes and the quiet of the Yukon winter nights allow time to connect to the land and to stories of its people and history. Enjoy a heated yurt and hot snacks and beverages for a chance to warm up – enjoy the great outdoors and the cold winter night for the true Aurora hunter!

Day 3 – Experience the rich Gold Rush and Tr’ondek Hwech’in history through a driving tour of the town and the gold fields. Later enjoy an inside glimpse into some of Dawson City’s oldest buildings on your historic walking tour hosted by Parks Canada. With this uniquely Canadian experience, you will experience a balanced blend of adventures, scenery, history and the very best of Northern hospitality! In the evening, join them again for another Aurora Viewing Tour.

Day 4 – Sleep in today or spend some time exploring the town on foot. Since you are accommodated right in downtown, all of the downtown core is easily accessible. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Whitehorse. You will take the complimentary airport shuttle bus to your hotel and at 10pm you will depart for another night of Aurora viewing at the Northern Tales Trading Post. You then return to the hotel around 2.30am.

Day 5 – Transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue your fly drive adventure.

*Please note that due to the remote locations visited, some accommodation is below the standard that we would normally recommend*