Whether you’re planning a winter escape to catch the aurora borealis or a summer adventure through wildflower-covered valleys, knowing how to travel to the Yukon is essential to making your trip smooth, safe, and memorable. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to reach this northern gem, including flights, road trips, and guided tours.
Why Visit the Yukon?
The Yukon isn’t just about its breathtaking scenery. It’s a destination rich in history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Here are just a few reasons travellers visit the Yukon:
- Northern Lights Viewing: One of the best places in the world to witness this magical phenomenon.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot moose, caribou, bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Historic Trails and Gold Rush Towns: Explore Dawson City and follow the paths of the Klondike Gold Rush.
- Outdoor Adventures: From dog sledding to kayaking and hiking, there’s something for every adventure seeker.
To truly make the most of your Yukon trip, many travellers choose to opt for a fully planned tour package. Expertly curated itineraries take care of logistics and ensure you experience the region’s highlights without the stress of planning, making it an excellent option for first-time visitors or seasoned travellers alike.
How Can I Get to the Yukon?
Getting to the Yukon may seem daunting due to its remote location, but there are several accessible options. Depending on your starting point, your journey can be by air or road—both offering incredible experiences in their own right.
©DCT / Michael Song
Option 1: Flying to the Yukon
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Yukon, especially for those travelling from major Canadian cities or internationally.
Major Airlines & Routes
Several airlines provide flights to the Yukon, including:
- Air North: Yukon’s own airline, offering direct flights from cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto.
- Air Canada: Connecting flights via major hubs such as Vancouver and Calgary.
Direct flights make it easy for travellers to reach the Yukon quickly and comfortably, leaving more time to explore its natural wonders.
Air North: Yukon’s Airline
Known for its friendly service, reliability, and local knowledge, flying Air North to the Yukon offers several advantages:
- Comfortable onboard experience with regional flair
- Helpful and knowledgeable staff familiar with Yukon destinations
- Convenient schedules optimised for travellers heading to the north
Whether you’re flying in for the Northern Lights season or a summer wilderness adventure, Air North is our highly recommended option, providing the fastest way to get to the Yukon, ensuring your journey begins stress-free.
Airport Information
The main airport in the Yukon is Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY), conveniently located just a few minutes from downtown Whitehorse. As the primary gateway to the region, the airport provides a range of modern amenities, including comfortable lounges, dining options, and car rental services, ensuring a smooth start or end to your journey.
Once you arrive, getting to your accommodation or tour starting point is straightforward. Car rentals are available directly at the airport for travellers who prefer the flexibility of exploring at their own pace. For those who would rather have someone else handle the driving, taxis and shuttle services provide reliable transportation into Whitehorse and the surrounding areas.
With these options, you can quickly settle in and begin your Yukon adventure.
Option 2: Driving to the Yukon
For those who love the journey as much as the destination, a road trip to the Yukon is an adventure in itself.
Planning Your Road Trip to the Yukon
If you prefer driving instead, a road trip offers unparalleled opportunities to explore scenic landscapes and hidden gems along the way. The most popular route is the Alaska Highway, which stretches from Dawson Creek in British Columbia through breathtaking mountains, rivers, and forests before reaching the Yukon.
For those starting their journey in Vancouver, a common route is to travel north through the scenic Sea-to-Sky Corridor, passing through Whistler and Lillooet before connecting with the Alaska Highway in northern B.C., allowing you to take in some of British Columbia’s most iconic landscapes along the way.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Road Trip:
- Plan Your Stops: Small towns along the route offer unique dining and lodging experiences.
- Check Road Conditions: Weather can be unpredictable especially in winter, and snowy or icy roads can be challenging if you’re not experienced with winter driving. Consider driving in warmer months or ensuring you’re fully prepared for winter conditions.
- Pack Essentials: Fuel up regularly, carry emergency supplies, and keep a detailed map handy.
- Enjoy the Sights: Don’t rush—take time to photograph scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife.
- Mobile phone reception is spotty and may not be available in rural areas, outside of cities, and even on major highways in the Yukon territories. Proper navigation in the traditional ways is recommended over Google Maps. Even if you get a signal, the data will be slow, and maps may not load properly.
- Satellite internet/phone or traditional radio rentals are recommended for road trips in the Yukon. (Yes, they are still in use by locals who travel between cities.)
Driving to the Yukon allows you to immerse yourself in the wilderness and enjoy the freedom of stopping wherever the scenery calls you.
Booking a Yukon Tour Package with Discover Canada Tours
For the most convenient way to experience the Yukon with everything thoughtfully planned, booking a Yukon tour package with Discover Canada Tours is an ideal choice. These packages combine expert local knowledge, carefully organized itineraries, and unique experiences, allowing you to enjoy the region’s highlights with ease and flexibility.
Why Choose a Yukon Tour Package?
Tour packages take the stress out of planning and ensure you get the most out of your visit. Benefits include:
- Expert Local Guides: Learn about the Yukon’s history, culture, and natural wonders from knowledgeable guides.
- All-Inclusive Itineraries: Accommodation, transportation, and activities are all handled for you.
- Unique Experiences: Access special activities and hidden gems not easily found on your own.
Our Yukon Tour Packages
Discover Canada Tours offers pre-planned Yukon tour packages for winter, summer, and autumn, designed to highlight the very best experiences each season has to offer.
From chasing the Northern Lights in winter to experiencing the midnight sun in summer, these itineraries highlight the Yukon’s iconic landscapes and seasonal activities. With support from local guides, each package is designed to help you enjoy the region while making the most of every adventure.
To help you choose the right itinerary for your trip, we’ve created a dedicated blog comparing our Yukon tour packages, outlining what each offers and the experiences you can expect in every season.
Conclusion
The Yukon is a land of breathtaking beauty, where vast wilderness, sparkling rivers, and rugged mountains create landscapes unlike anywhere else. From the quiet stillness of its forests to the charm of historic Gold Rush towns, every moment offers something remarkable to discover.
With a thoughtfully planned itinerary, you can make the most of your journey—enjoying the region’s highlights at your own pace, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing the Northern Lights in all their glory. Whether you prefer flying, driving, or following a carefully organized tour package, the Yukon offers breathtaking landscapes and experiences you’ll remember long after your trip.
For a hassle-free and unforgettable travel experience, book a guided tour to the Yukon today with Discover Canada Tours and let local experts take care of every detail.
