5 Must-Do Yukon Road Trips for Nature Lovers
The Yukon is a mecca for nature lovers looking to explore breathtaking landscapes, unspoiled wilderness, and abundant wildlife. A road trip through this ruggedly beautiful territory is an adventure of a lifetime. With so many scenic routes to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to take. Here are five must-do Yukon road trips that will take your breath away.
The Dempster Highway
The Dempster Highway is the only road in Canada that crosses the Arctic Circle and connects the Klondike Highway in the Yukon to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories. This 740-kilometer (460-mile) road trip takes you through some of the most remote and rugged areas of the Yukon, with barren Arctic tundra, stunning peaks, and pristine lakes all around. The highway is an adventure in itself, with unpaved stretches, river crossings, and few services along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves, as you journey through this truly wild landscape.
The Klondike Loop
The Klondike Loop is a classic road trip that takes you through the heart of the Yukon’s Gold Rush history. This 220-kilometer (140-mile) route starts and ends in Whitehorse and includes historic towns like Dawson City, where you can try your hand at gold panning, visit museums, and take in the lively atmosphere of this charming community. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning scenery, including lakes, mountains, and forests, and have opportunities to hike, fish, and enjoy the outdoors.
The Top of the World Highway
The Top of the World Highway is a 127-kilometer (79-mile) road that runs from Dawson City to the Alaska border, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you drive along this winding road, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, with panoramic vistas of mountains, valleys, and the Yukon River below. Be sure to take in the sights at the Top of the World border crossing, where you can see into Alaska and enjoy breathtaking views in every direction.
The Alaska Highway
The Alaska Highway is a legendary road trip that runs 2,237 kilometers (1,390 miles) from Dawson Creek in British Columbia to Delta Junction in Alaska, with a significant stretch of the road passing through the Yukon. This iconic route takes you through some of the Yukon’s most stunning landscapes, including mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes. Along the way, you’ll discover charming towns and attractions, such as the hot springs at Liard River, Kluane National Park, and the Northern Lights Centre in Watson Lake.
The Haines Highway
The Haines Highway is a 240-kilometer (149-mile) road that connects Haines, Alaska, with Haines Junction in the Yukon. This scenic route takes you through the Coastal Range and along pristine lakes and rivers, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Kluane Lake overlook and the Million Dollar Falls, and keep an eye out for wildlife, such as moose, bears, and eagles.
Conclusion
A road trip through the Yukon is an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. These five must-do road trips offer something for everyone, from history and culture to spectacular natural beauty and wildlife. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the wonders of the Yukon.
