The Top 3 Towns (In Pictures) to Visit in the Yukon
The Yukon has close to 42,000 residents spread throughout the vast territory. Although an estimated 33,000 of them live in the capital, Whitehorse, many seek further seclusion and live in one of the many beautiful historic towns that are scattered throughout the Territory. Here are our top 3 picks of Yukon towns we love.
Haines Junction, Yukon
Haines Junction is located in between Whitehorse, Yukon and Haines, Alaska. Also known as the gateway to Kluane National Park and Reserve, the town is located within the traditional territory of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. It is home to 800 plus residents and has a tight-knit community.
Haines Junction, Yukon -The Haines Junction sign is a great photo location upon entry to the little town.
The Village Bakery- This Haines Junction hotspot is a great place to grab a bite to eat and listen to local Yukon musicians sing some of your favorite tunes.
Kathleen Lake - Nestled just next to Haines Junction, this beautiful lake getaway is a great place to take in the beauty of Kluane National Park.
Frosty’s- You can’t leave Haines Junction without stopping for ice cream at good old Frosty’s. With over 14 flavors available, this is a must on your “Junction” bucket list.
Dawson City, Yukon
The home of the Klondike Goldrush! This history-rich little town is your go-to place to experience a blast from the past. It houses an old-fashioned gambling hall, a gold panning museum, and offers rides on the Yukon’s only functioning paddle-wheeler. We also suggest trying the sourtoe cocktail. Let’s just say its a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Dawson City, Yukon -The main street in downtown Dawson City is filled with quaint shops and beautiful cafés.
Diamond Tooth Gerties- Canada’s first casino offers visitors a realistic Klondike period experience. The hall offers casino games, nostalgic tunes, and three different cancan-inspired shows. It is open from May to September, 7 days a week.
The Klondike Spirit Paddle Wheeler Cruise - Dawson City is home to the Yukon’s only operating paddle-wheeler. The nostalgic journey takes you along the beautiful Yukon River with experienced guides filling you in on the history of the Klondike Gold Rush and Dawson City itself.
Free Claim #6, Bonanza Creek- This one-of-a-kind creek, inspired the craze later known as the Klondike Gold Rush. Bring your own pan and get ready to strike it rich as so many did over a century ago.
Carcross, Yukon
Located 45 minutes outside of Whitehorse, Carcross provides travelers with an authentic pioneer village experience. With its stunning views of Bennett Lake, quaint little town and iconic bridge, Carcross is a must see for anyone wanting a quick pitstop on their way to Skagway and beyond. Its a natural stop after a day full of adventure in the area.
Carcross, Yukon - This small town is filled with life. From bakeries, to lakeside walks, to a trip down the Commons, Carcross is a great pitstop on your way to Alaska.
Carcross Commons- The historical downtown offers travelers a place to grab coffee, explore the General Store and send off a letter at the the towns small post office!
Carcross Desert- Welcome to the world’s smallest desert! Take your time walking through this Yukon anomaly but watch out for ATV’s and side by sides as they tend to frequent the area.
Caribou Crossing - About 10 minutes outside of the Carcross town center, the mock pioneer village provides travelers with a mushers experience, gold panning, husky puppies, and a wildlife gallery. New to the experience are fresh donuts made daily.