The Yukon's capital and biggest town, Whitehorse was an important transportation hub when it was the terminus of the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad to Skagway, Alaska, and the transshipment point for freight going down the Yukon River. You can still ride on a portion of this railway as it chugs over the breathtaking White Pass and past blue glaciers—a bus provides transportation to the rail line from Whitehorse.
Whitehorse has several attractions and events that shouldn't be missed. The Yukon Historical Museums Association offers an interesting walking tour of Whitehorse, but if the weather is too chilly for strolling, visit the Yukon Government Building, which tells the story of the territory in stained-glass windows and wall hangings.
Should time permit, consider a Yukon River tour aboard the MV Schwatka. If you'd rather experience 19th-century nautical nostalgia on land, visit the SS Klondike—the restored stern-wheeler is now a dry-docked museum.
Other day-trip destinations include Takhini Hot Springs, 17 mi/27 km away, where you can soak in the natural heat of a spring-fed mineral bath, and Miles Canyon. Nearby, the Whitehorse Rapids dam has the longest wooden fish ladder in the world (late July to early August is the best time to see salmon migrating up the fish ladder).
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.