A winter sojourn to Canada's north-western Yukon Territory is the stuff of bucket-lists. As the mercury plunges, the Yukon embraces its role as the ultimate winter wonderland; an ethereal canvas of night skies ablaze with the northern lights, outdoor adventures and welcoming townships embodying the essence of true northern charm.

Redefine winter with a trip to the Yukon. Read on to discover an extraordinary blend of natural wonders and exhilarating experiences that take the snowy season to unparalleled heights.

Light up the night

There has never been a better time to plan a northern lights viewing trip to the Yukon, with the current solar cycle set to reach its peak (known as 'solar max') in 2025. This increase in solar activity results in more aurora activity here on Earth, making 2024 - 2026 an outstanding time for aurora viewing.

Go aurora hunting with an experienced guide, such as Nomada Excursions, Epic North, or Up North Adventures who take you from your hotel in Whitehorse out into the wilderness, where a perfect, black-sky canvas displays a the shimmering, dancing ribbons of aurora. Listen to tales of northern life and learn the folklore of the aurora borealis as you sip on hot chocolate around a hot wood-fired stove or fireplace. High quality winter gear, including boots, is available for hire in Whitehorse.

Soak up the serenity

There's something magical about soaking in a natural outdoor hot spring nestled within a snow-drenched forest, the mesmerising northern lights dancing overhead, in one of Canada's most epic wilderness destinations. The Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, situated just 20 minutes from Whitehorse, is heated by natural geothermal activity, featuring multiple outdoor soaking pools framed by large boulders, saunas, steam rooms, cold water plunging and fire pits, as well as a restaurant featuring spa-fusion food, including home-made soups and sandwiches.

Adventures on the slopes

Ski bunnies love Yukon's diverse wilderness trails, drawing skiers of all ages and abilities. In Whitehorse, 85 kilometres of world-class groomed cross country ski trails take you through the snowy scenery of Mount McIntyre, while Mount Sima offers higher elevations. For high-altitude skiing in March and April, check out Yukon Heli Ski, a great option for intermediate to advanced skiers.

Wilderness lodge stays

Stay in a glass-fronted chalet at the Northern Lights Resort & Spa, with large floor-to-ceiling glass perfect for aurora viewing. Just 20 minutes from Whitehorse, far from any light pollution, the Resort is framed by picturesque pine forests and snow-drenched mountains, with cabins created from Douglas fir trees. Alternatively, learn to skate on glittering Tagish Lake at Southern Lakes Resort, situated within the traditional territory of the Carcross / Tagish First Nation. During autumn and winter, you'll enjoy front row seats to the mystical northern lights and fill your days with dog sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. 

Adventures of the wild kind

Explore a tapestry of wintry landscapes on snowshoes, fat bikes or snowmobiles. Traverse serene trails, frozen lakes and mountains and watch for winter wildlife roaming freely, such as snow-white arctic foxes, elk, moose, thin horn sheep, woodland caribou and mountain goats.

A howling good time

Embrace the call of the wild and learn how to mush your own team of sled at Sky High Wilderness Ranch, where you will be assigned your own team of friendly huskies. Learn how to manage them and set off on an exhilarating half or full-day excursion, an experience that's reminiscent of the early days of transportation by sled dog.

Alayuk Adventures, Muktuk Adventures and Cathers Wilderness Adventures also offer incredible guided short and mult-day dog mushing experiences.

An urban winter postcard

The Yukon's capital city of Whitehorse is the perfect launching pad for outstanding winter experiences, and exudes the inviting, friendly spirit of the Territory. Grab a coffee at Baked Café and Bakery and take a stroll around the town, viewing the spectacular murals, many of which depict First Nations stories of life in the Yukon. Visit the SS Klondike Historical Site and marvel at the vast expanse of the Yukon River that passes through the town. Visit the MacBride Museum of Yukon History where you'll discover fascinating First Nations history and culture, including a particularly fascinating exhibit of traditional First Nations bead work, tools and trade goods.

For a real immersion into the culture of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation in whose traditional territory Whitehorse is located, take a guided tour of the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre.

GETTING THERE

Air Canada offers daily direct flights to Vancouver from Sydney and direct flights between Brisbane and Vancouver four times per week. Direct flights from Sydney to Vancouver are also available on Qantas. Internal flights to Whitehorse and Dawson City are available on Air North and Air Canada.

For more information about Yukon visit www.travelyukon.com.