Best known for its jaw-dropping scenery and diverse wildlife, Yukon is the most western of North Canada’s three territories. With its sparse population and crisp arctic air, this is a great place for getting outdoors and kicking back with Mother Nature.

A fantastic place to start is by seeing the unique sights at Carcross Dessert. Marvel at the stunning emerald lake, before heading up the golden sand dunes for some un-matched views of the mountains.

Another photo-worthy spot is Watson Lake, which is a popular fishing location thanks to the kokanee salmon and rainbow trout that live in its waters. From here, you can walk to the Sign Post Forest and make your mark, or drive to Rancheria Falls and listen to the peaceful sounds of the river.

To get your history fix, you can explore the legacy of the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush by hiking the iconic Chilkoot Trail. Or, step inside the heritage sites at Dawson City as part of a locally guided tour.

With plenty on offer in every season, Yukon’s capital city Whitehorse is a must-visit for any North Canada holiday-goer.
The Yukon Quest is one of the city’s main attractions, with up to 50 dog teams taking on the 1,000 mile challenge every year. And, if you aren’t satisfied with being a spectator, dogsledding tours that cater to a range of abilities are on offer for tourists during the winter. Alternatively, ice-fishing and cross-county skiing are also popular winter sports, with frequent expeditions setting out from the centre of Whitehorse.

If you’re wanting to stay inside the city, you can discover the wonders of the Ice Age at Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, or learn all about First Nations way of life at Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. And, if you’re looking for a place to eat in Whitehorse, head to Wayfarer Oyster House for your choice of locally sourced fish, meat and beer. Or, drink from hand-blow glassware at the family owned Gather Cafe & Taphouse.

With North Canada’s spectacular natural profile, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do outdoors. During the summer, North Canada’s lakes and rivers are ideal for a range of activities. Head over to Lake Laberge if you like the sound of kayaking and paddling, or for those wanting more of a thrill, the Nahanni River is a great spot for white-water rafting.
If you’d rather stay on dry land, North Canada has some incredible hiking spots. Follow in the footsteps of gold-seekers by hiking the iconic Chilkoot Trail, or journey across mountainous terrain on horseback at Tombstone Territorial Park

For a truly unique experience, you can visit the world’s smallest desert at Carcross. Go sandboarding down the dunes, or wait until winter to use the slope for cross-country skiing or snowboarding.

Alternatively, if you want to dive into North Canada’s fascinating history and culture, Whitehorse is a must-visit. Those with an artistic flair can learn antler carving and raven’s tail weaving at the Adaka Cultural Festival. Or, to get your sporting fix, watch hundreds of sled dogs and mushers embark upon the annual 1,000-mile-long Yukon Quest from the heart of the city.

If you’re travelling to North Canada in the summer, you can expect clear skies, crisp air, and lots of sunshine. For those wanting to get outdoors and get active, a trip between June and August will give you the warmest temperatures. In July, the more southerly regions can enjoy highs of up to 23°C, but with varying temperatures it’s best to still bring layers. A great perk of summers in North Canada is getting to experience the ‘midnight sun’ which gives some days 24 hours of continuous sunlight.

North Canada’s colder months have plenty to offer too. Visit from mid-November to the beginning of April for the best sighting of the jaw-dropping Northern Lights, it's also worth noting that the Yukon has one of the longest Aurora seasons running from August thru to April.

The days during winter are considerably shorter and temperatures can often drop to -40°C. But, if you’re willing to brave the cold, the ample snow is perfect for skiing or snowboarding. Alternatively, head to one of North Canada’s frozen lakes to try your hand at ice-fishing. If you want some respite from the cold, head over to Whitehouse to taste the locally brewed beer, or snuggle up in a cosy Yellowknife coffee shop.