Explore Yukon Canada

Explore Yukon

What is the best time to travel to Yukon

The best time to travel to Yukon depends on the type of experience you’re looking for:

Summer (June to August): The summer months are the most popular time to visit the Yukon, with long days, mild temperatures, and a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy. This is the best time to go hiking, fishing, canoeing, and mountain biking. The weather is generally pleasant with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C, although it can still get chilly at night.

Fall (September to October): Fall is the time to see the spectacular fall foliage as the leaves on the trees change color. The weather is still mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for nature lovers to visit.

Winter (November to March): Winter is the time for outdoor adventure in the Yukon, with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and dog sledding being popular activities. The Northern Lights are also visible during the winter months, making it a great time to see this natural wonder.

Spring (April to May): Spring is the time when the snow melts and the landscape comes alive with wildflowers and wildlife. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional snowfall, but it’s a great time to go bird watching and see the wildlife emerging from hibernation.

How to get to Yukon

The Yukon Territory is located in the far northwestern region of Canada and can be accessed by several modes of transportation:

By air: The easiest and most convenient way to get to the Yukon is by air. The Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is the main airport in the territory and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Air North. These airlines offer regular scheduled flights to and from several Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton.

By car: Visitors can also drive to the Yukon Territory via the Alaska Highway, which connects the Yukon with British Columbia and Alaska. The Alaska Highway is a scenic drive that offers stunning views of the Canadian wilderness and the northern lights.

By bus: As mentioned earlier, there are several bus services available in the Yukon Territory that provide transportation to various communities and tourist destinations.

By train: While there are no passenger train services in Yukon, travelers can take a train to British Columbia or Alberta and then fly to Whitehorse or drive to the Yukon.

By boat: During the summer months, visitors can take a boat tour on the Yukon River, which offers a unique way to explore the wilderness of the territory.

How to get around Yukon

There are several ways to get around Yukon:

Car rental: Renting a car is the most popular way to get around the Yukon as it gives you the flexibility to explore the territory at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate in the Yukon, and it’s best to book in advance, especially during the peak season.

Bus: Yukon Transit System operates a bus service that connects several communities and tourist destinations in the territory. The buses run on a fixed schedule, and tickets can be purchased on board.

Taxi: Taxis are available in the major towns and cities in the Yukon, and it’s an excellent option for short trips within the town.

Bike: Biking is a great way to explore the wilderness of the Yukon, and several bike rental shops operate in the territory.

Guided tours: There are several guided tours available in the Yukon, including hiking tours, wildlife tours, and Northern Lights tours. These tours offer a unique way to explore the wilderness of the territory, and transportation is usually included in the tour package.

Overall, there are several ways to get around the Yukon, and the mode of transportation you choose depends on your preference and the type of experience you’re looking for.

National Airports

The Yukon Territory has two major airports that serve the region:

Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport: This airport is located in Whitehorse, the capital city of Yukon. It is the main airport in the territory and offers regular scheduled flights to and from several Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. The airport also serves as a hub for regional airlines that offer flights to smaller communities in the Yukon.

Dawson City Airport: This airport is located in Dawson City and serves as a gateway to the northern region of the Yukon. It offers limited scheduled flights to and from Whitehorse, as well as charter flights to other communities in the area.

In addition to these two airports, there are several smaller airports and landing strips located throughout the Yukon that serve remote communities and provide access to the wilderness areas of the territory.

Trains in Yukon

There are no passenger train services in Yukon Territory. While there are railway lines in the territory, they are primarily used for hauling freight and are not available for passenger transport. The nearest passenger train services to the Yukon are located in British Columbia and Alberta, which have regular train services to Vancouver and Edmonton respectively. From there, travelers can fly to Whitehorse or drive to the Yukon. However, the Yukon offers many other transportation options, including air travel, buses, and car rentals, to help visitors explore the territory.

Buses in Yukon

There are several bus services available in Yukon Territory that provide transportation to various communities and tourist destinations. Some of the bus services available in Yukon include:

Greyhound Canada: Greyhound Canada used to provide bus services to Whitehorse and other communities in Yukon Territory, but it ceased its operations in the country in 2018.

Husky Bus: Husky Bus provides scheduled bus services to several communities in Yukon, including Whitehorse, Dawson City, and Beaver Creek. They also offer charter services for group travel.

Up North Adventures: Up North Adventures offers bus tours to various destinations in Yukon, including Kluane National Park, Haines Junction, and Skagway, Alaska.

Adventure Tours Yukon: Adventure Tours Yukon provides guided bus tours of the territory, including wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.

Car rentals: Several car rental companies offer services in Whitehorse and other communities in the Yukon Territory. Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who prefer the flexibility of having their own transportation.

Accommodations in Yukon

Yukon offers a variety of accommodations for travelers ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some popular options:

Hotels: There are several hotels and lodges in Yukon that offer comfortable accommodations, amenities, and services. Many hotels are located in or near the major towns and cities and offer easy access to tourist attractions and activities.

Cabins and cottages: Yukon is known for its scenic beauty, and staying in a cabin or cottage is an excellent way to experience it. There are several cabins and cottages available for rent, ranging from rustic to luxurious.

Hostels and guesthouses: For budget-conscious travelers, hostels and guesthouses are a great option. They offer affordable accommodations and are an excellent way to meet other travelers.

Camping: Camping is a popular activity in Yukon, and there are several campgrounds and RV parks throughout the territory. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and experience the wilderness of Yukon.

Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and Breakfasts are a popular option in Yukon and offer a more personal touch to your accommodations. They are typically run by locals and offer a unique insight into the culture and lifestyle of Yukon.