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Whitehorse Itineraries

Whitehorse Itineraries

Whitehorse Yukon Territory, Canada Travel Guide

-Hour Layover Highlights

A brief visit to Whitehorse allows to get a taste of its main attractions.

Explore downtown, visit a museum, plus get a short scenic walk.

Layover Itinerary

  • Morning: Downtown Whitehorse, S.S. Klondike, MacBride Museum.
  • Lunch: Casual bite at a local spot like Baked Cafe.
  • Afternoon: Miles Canyon walk or Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre.

Extended Stays

Whitehorse has numerous options for longer trips.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

A quick trip allows exploration of the urban area main points and a day trip.

Weekend Plan

  • Day 1: S.S. Klondike, MacBride Museum, riverfront, local pub/Northern Lights.
  • Day 2: Yukon Wildlife Preserve, Takhini Hot Springs, Miles Canyon or art galleries.
  • Day 3: Day trip to Carcross.
  • Book your day trip here.
An option is to book tours in advance.

One-Week Immersion

A week permits in-depth exploration of Whitehorse and regional attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary

  • Days 1-2: Whitehorse museums, shops, dining.
  • Day 3: Haines Junction, Kluane National Park visitor info, short hike.
  • Days 4-5: Road trip to Dawson City, overnight stay.

Dawson City & Return

Explore Gold Rush history, Diamond Tooth Gerties, Midnight Dome in Dawson.

Dawson Extension

  • The Quest for gold Historic Sites.
  • Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall.
  • Midnight Dome for panoramic views.
  • Return via Klondike Highway, or Dempster Highway for adventure.

Two-Week Journey

Combine the one-week plan with extensive additional exploration.

Deep Dive Options

  • Multi-day hiking or paddling trips.
  • Flightseeing tour over Kluane icefields.
  • Side trip to Tombstone Territorial Park (gravel highway).
  • Winter: Multi-day sled dog racing or snowmobiling.

Long-Term Stays

For several weeks or months, consider renting accommodations and immersing yourself locally.

Accommodation

Rent a do-it-yourself-catering unit or cabin.

Community Immersion

Engage in local events, discover lesser-known trails.

Local Involvement

Consider volunteering with a local organization.

Always Check

Always check opening hours and availability, especially for attractions and tours that operate seasonally.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Whitehorse itinerary to your specific passions and preferences.

History & Heritage Focus

Explore the rich Gold Rush and First Nations history of the region.

Heritage Highlights

  • Whitehorse: S.S. Klondike, MacBride Museum, Old Log Church.
  • Carcross: Historic village, Matthew Watson General Store.
  • Dawson City: Parks Canada The Quest for gold sites, Diamond Tooth Gerties.
  • Optional: Skagway, Alaska (White Pass & Yukon Route experiences available).
Explore the past.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor local flavors, from uncooked produce to craft beverages.

Culinary Journey

  • Explore Whitehorse's diverse restaurants and cafes.
  • Fireweed Community Market (summer) for local produce.
  • Yukon Brewing Co. Or the Yukon Spirits distillery.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Experience the Yukon's wilderness through various activities.

Outdoor Thrills

  • Hike trails: Miles Canyon, Grey Mountain, or Kluane National Park.
  • Canoeing or kayaking in the Yukon River.
  • Winter: Sled dog racing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, fat biking.
  • Summer: Mountain biking and angling.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities suitable for all ages ensure a memorable family trip.

Family Fun

  • Yukon Wildlife Preserve and Takhini Hot Springs.
  • MacBride Museum with interactive exhibits.
  • Walk the Miles Canyon suspension bridge.
  • Canada Games Centre for its the a pool and ice rink.

Special Interests

Tailor your visit to niche areas of interest.

Art & Architecture

Yukon Arts Centre, historic buildings, local galleries.

Spiritual & Wellness

Takhini Hot Springs, quiet trails, peaceful Yukon River.

Unique Experiences

Explore options like gold panning or aurora photography tours.

Itinerary Flexibility

Be flexible with your plans, as weather conditions can influence outdoor activity schedules. Enjoy the spontaneity from the northern part of travel.

Budget & Seasons

Whitehorse travel accommodates various budgets, with distinct experiences each season.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize savings with affordable accommodations and free activities.

Frugal Travel

  • Accommodation: Beez Kneez Bakpakers Hostel or Robert Service Campground.
  • Food: Cook meals from groceries.
  • Activities: Miles Canyon, Millennium Trail, Schwäka Park.
  • Transportation: Whitehorse Transit, walk, or bike.
Explore without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range Comfort

Balance cost and experience with comfortable accommodations and popular attractions.

Balanced Plan

  • Accommodation: Mid-range hotel or a comfortable B&B.
  • Food: Mix self-catering with dining at mid-range restaurants.
  • Activities: Museums, the wildlife preserve, and the hot springs.
  • Transportation: Rent a vehicle for 1-2 days for day trips outside the city.

Luxury & Value

Whitehorse has luxury experiences alongside practical value choices.

Luxury Experience Plan

  • Accommodation: Raven Inn or an isolated wilderness lodge like Sundog Retreat.
  • Food: Dine at fine dining establishments like Antoinette's Restaurant.
  • Activities: Flightseeing tours over Kluane, private aurora tours.

Value-Focused Recommendations

  • Go in the shoulder season for lower prices.
  • Book accommodations with kitchenettes.
  • Utilize free outdoor activities.

Summer & Spring

Each season transforms Whitehorse, offering distinct experiences.

Seasonal Adventures

  • Summer (June-Aug): Hiking, paddling, fishing, midnight sun.
  • Spring (Apr-May): Wildlife viewing, longer days, lower prices.
  • Summer: Fireweed Community Market and local festivals.
  • Off-season: Lower prices, fewer crowds, an authentic local ambiance.

Winter & Festivals

Experience the magic of winter and regional events.

Winter Wonders

  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Prime for The Aurora borealis viewing, winter sports.
  • Winter Sports: Sled dog racing, snowmobiling, ice fishing.
  • Festivals: Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous (February).
  • Shoulder seasons: Longer nights for aurora, fewer crowds.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Priority Pass presents frequent travelers independent airport lounge access worldwide.

Flight Compensation

Compensair helps with compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Itinerary Planning

When planning, always check opening hours and availability, especially for attractions and tours that operate seasonally.