Visiting the Yukon in the winter can be an extraordinary and magical experience. It offers a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty and cultural offerings. Everything is completely different in the winter than the summer – from the landscape to activities, to huge temperature differences. It looks and feels completely different.
I recommend you visit the Yukon in the winter and the summer to experience both worlds! But in this article, I’ll stick to winter for now.
Once you’re there here are some tips on how to deal with winter in the Yukon. Until then, here are some compelling reasons to consider a winter visit to the Yukon:
1. Northern lights
Winter is one of the best times to witness the northern lights in the Yukon. The long nights and clear skies provide optimal conditions for viewing this spectacular natural phenomenon. They’re even visible in the Yukon’s capital city, Whitehorse! So you can only imagine how clear the night sky is once you leave the largest city and venture out into the wilderness.
The northern lights become visible as soon as the sun sets, so catch them any time between September and April. The best times of the night are between 11pm and 3am, but they can make an appearance anytime after dark. I’ve sometimes seen them as early as 10pm and as late as 8:30am. You just have to stay vigilant and keep looking! Read my article about playing hockey and the aurora for a good idea of what it’s like.
When is the best time of year to visit the Yukon?
From personal experience, the best time to visit the Yukon for the northern lights is March. This is because the nights are still long enough, it’s still a winter wonderland, but it’s not as cold. It can be difficult to stay outside stargazing and northern lights viewing when it’s -50 celsius.
The best app I’ve found for keeping up to date with the aurora forecast is “My Aurora Forecast”. This isn’t a sponsored link, I just think it’s a great app! It’s mostly accurate (aurora forecasting is a tricky business), and sends you notifications for when to look outside.
2. It's a winter wonderland
The Yukon transforms into a winter wonderland during this time of year. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen rivers, and icicle-adorned trees create a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere. In some places, it’s possible to drive a truck over the lake. And it’s always fun – and a little nerve-wracking – walking far out across the frozen water.
It’s extra special when the snow falls silently in huge snowflakes with no wind. Or when the snow on the ground sparkles like glitter. On very cold days the moisture is stripped from the air, and sound carries an impossibly long way.
The Yukon climate is dry, so sometimes the snow flutters along the ground like cotton, and you can see for miles before you. The cold doesn’t seep into your bones here either, so you can explore for hours with good clothing.
3. Lots of outdoor activities
Whilst it’s cold, the Yukon offers a variety of outdoor activities that are unique to the winter season. You can go dog sledding, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and even ice climbing. These activities allow you to immerse yourself in the pristine winter environment and enjoy the thrill of the outdoors.
There’s definitely no shortage of exciting things to do in the Yukon in winter. After you’re done, warm up beside a campfire and roast some sausages. A day of activities and fresh air will definitely build up an appetite.
If you don’t own any winter clothing and gear, there are places to rent them in Whitehorse, like Aurora Outfitters. Unless you already own some, winter clothing takes up a lot of space in your luggage, so this is useful.
It would be a shame to travel to the Yukon in winter and not take part in outdoor activities. Even if you rent out some snowshoes and go for a hike, it will be a memorable experience. To walk along trails covered in snow will feel like you’re in Lapland. It never gets tiring to see the beauty of winter landscapes. Especially if you’re lucky enough to spot some moose or caribou!
The Yukon has a special place in my heart. Read about my first winter experience for a deeper insight.
4. Enchanting hot springs
Make use of this opportunity to relax in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-covered scenery. Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs is a 30-minute drive from Whitehorse. This makes it a perfect afternoon trip to unwind. They even host a hair-freezing contest! Imagine sitting in their natural pools, steam rising from the water’s surface, surrounded by a pristine white landscape… Then you look over a see someone with their frozen hair standing on end!
The Yukon is a quirky place, that’s for sure. But that is why we love it, right? Make sure to book tickets in advance to not miss out.
5. Unique winter festivals & events
The Yukon hosts winter festivals and events that celebrate the season’s beauty and culture. The Yukon Rendezvous Festival in Whitehorse features activities like dog sledding races, snow sculpting, and traditional Yukon entertainment. At the festival, there are even quirky contests like chainsaw throwing (which you can participate in) and Can-Can performances!
There are not just festivals, but also races, like the Yukon Quest International dog sled race. Wave your encouragement to the teams as they race the 450 miles across the Yukon! Or if the weather is bad, keep track of who’s winning in real-time. The start is in Whitehorse and the finish line is in Dawson City, both fantastic cities. It’s awe-inspiring to see these tough sled dogs and talented dog mushers do what they do best.
There’s also the Yukon Arctic Ultra – participants can race for up to 430 miles with mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and running. It’s cold and it’s tough! Whether you choose to participate or watch, it will be a spectacle not to miss.
If you’re looking for something less extreme, there is the Available Light Festival in Whitehorse. From the Yukon Film Society, discover contemporary Canadian and International films, along with workshops to keep you inspired.
6. Photography opportunities
Yukon in the winter provides photographers with unique opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes, frozen waterfalls, the night sky, and wildlife. The beauty is already there, you just need to bring your camera along.
During the day there’s ample opportunity to take stunning pictures of the landscape. If you’re lucky you’ll find a moose grazing or a fox dart across the snow. During the night there’s the Milky Way and the Aurora Borealis just waiting for you to discover it. Even in Whitehorse, there’s art everywhere, so if you have an artistic eye the Yukon is a playground of inspiration.
7. Enjoy cultural experiences
Embrace the local culture by learning about the traditions and way of life that thrive in the Yukon’s winter months. Winter can last a long time, so people have learned to make the best of it. You might have the chance to participate in traditional activities, hear stories, and connect with locals.
The MacBride Museum in Whitehorse is open all year round and is a fantastic hub for learning about the Yukon. Especially the knowledge it holds about the winter months, and how the First Nations people survive in the harsh climate. It’s also a good reason to get out of the cold for a while!
Even things you wouldn’t necessarily think about have a history to them in the Yukon. Bars and hotels usually have an intriguing history to them, like the 98 Hotel (locals just call it “The 98”). Tidbits of history like this are everywhere in the Yukon, so keep an eye out.
Even when talking to locals, they’re so passionate about living in the Yukon. They’re still in love with the territory, even after decades of living there.
8. Yukon in the winter is tranquil
Winter is the off-peak tourist season in the Yukon, which means you’ll encounter fewer crowds. This allows for a more peaceful and immersive experience. You can explore the natural beauty and attractions without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist activity.
That being said, a lot of people still travel to the Yukon in the winter. It’s just a different type of thrill-seeker and nature-lover. It attracts a more specific kind of person, so you’ll bump into some like-minded people along the way!
Whether you’re relaxing in the hot springs, or sitting in a dog sled, the Yukon feels huge and quiet. It transports you to another world and surprises you in many different ways. For example, when dog sledding, did you know the dogs are silent when they’re running? As they’re waiting to go they bark and jump in excitement, but as soon as they mush ahead, they’re focused. They’re in their element. To experience that as you’re riding along a huge frozen lake, or through the winding forest trails, is phenomenal. Plus to watch their little ears bouncing along in “run mode” is super cute.
9. Unique accommodations
Many accommodations in the Yukon offer cozy and charming lodgings, such as cabins and lodges, like Southern Lakes Resort. These places provide a warm and inviting retreat from the cold, and a chance to rejuvenate before heading back out. Staying in these unique accommodations enhances the overall winter experience.
These accommodations are on a varied price scale too, so whether you’re on a budget or not doesn’t matter. You will be able to find something for your price range. If you’re interested, places like Southern Lakes Resort provide full winter packages. This includes clothing rental, meals, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and transfers to and from the airport. So you just have to plan your flights.
So, is the Yukon worth visiting?
While the Yukon’s weather in the winter may be cold, the experiences and memories you’ll create will be unforgettable. The people are genuine and warm, so you’ll feel like part of the family. It’s a time when the landscape is transformed into a magical wonderland. Yukon in the winter offers a chance to engage with nature and culture in a unique and meaningful way. It will just blow your mind, and I highly recommend you start planning your trip of a lifetime now.
If you feel like winter might not be for you, after all, that’s okay! Read my article on epic reasons why you need to travel to the Yukon to capture more of your imagination.
There’s a special lure to the Yukon, so be warned – many who visit for a vacation end up staying!
