· CA

Whitehorse

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

Whitehorse, located in the Yukon territory of Canada, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. As the capital city of the Yukon, Whitehorse serves as a…

#Northern Canada#Capital of Yukon#Wilderness#Outdoor activities#Northern Lights

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Whitehorse.

Top Hotels in Whitehorse

Top Flights to Whitehorse

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Whitehorse.

Tours

Explore the Northern Lights

Witness the spectacular display of the Aurora Borealis across the Yukon skies, a natural phenomenon visible on clear nights.

Historic Miles Canyon

Visit the natural historic site characterized by stunning basaltic columns and the picturesque views of the Yukon River.

S.S. Klondike National Historic Site

Explore the sternwheeler, S.S. Klondike, which once carried freight along the Yukon River.

MacBride Museum of Yukon History

Step back in time and explore the rich history of Yukon at the MacBride Museum.

Yukon Transportation Museum

Explore the various transportation methods used historically in the Yukon, including vintage vehicles and aircraft.

Shopping

Downtown Whitehorse Shopping

Explore the vibrant local shops, galleries, and boutiques situated in downtown Whitehorse.

Outdoor

Yukon Wildlife Preserve

Discover the diverse range of Yukon's wildlife within this expansive and natural habitat environment.

Takhini Hot Springs

Relax in the natural mineral waters of Takhini Hot Springs amidst scenic forests.

Fish Lake

Take in the serene beauty and recreational opportunities of Fish Lake, a perfect spot for picnics and photography.

Whitehorse Mountain Biking

Enjoy thrilling mountain biking adventures through some of the best trails in Whitehorse.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Whitehorse.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, is '43,000'.

Languages

English, French, First Nations languages

Average weather

Whitehorse

Jan

-11°-18°

Feb

-7°-16°

Mar

-2°-12°

Apr

5°-5°

May

13°1°

Jun

19°6°

Jul

21°9°

Aug

19°7°

Sep

12°2°

Oct

4°-5°

Nov

-6°-13°

Dec

-10°-17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Whitehorse.

What people love

Traveling to Whitehorse, located in the Yukon Territory in Canada, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Some of the pros of visiting Whitehorse include:

Natural Beauty: Whitehorse is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and the Yukon River. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Northern Lights: Whitehorse is located in a prime viewing area for the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Visitors have a good chance of witnessing this mesmerizing natural phenomenon during the winter months.
Cultural Experience: Whitehorse is home to a rich Indigenous culture, with opportunities to learn about the traditions and history of the local First Nations communities. Visitors can explore cultural centers, attend traditional performances, and purchase authentic Indigenous artwork.
Adventure Activities: Whitehorse is a hub for outdoor adventures, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing in the winter, and hiking, canoeing, and camping in the summer. There are also opportunities for more unique experiences like ice climbing and hot springs visits.
Historical Sites: Visitors to Whitehorse can learn about the region's history at places like the MacBride Museum and the SS Klondike National Historic Site. These attractions offer insight into the Klondike Gold Rush and the area's pioneering past.
Small-Town Charm: Despite being the capital of the Yukon Territory, Whitehorse has a small-town feel with a welcoming community. Visitors can explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants, and experience the friendly hospitality of the residents.

Overall, traveling to Whitehorse can provide a memorable and enriching experience for those seeking adventure, nature, culture, and history in a unique northern setting.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada include:

Harsh weather conditions: Whitehorse experiences long, cold winters with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Snowfall can be heavy, leading to difficult travel conditions.
Remote location: Whitehorse is located in a remote area of Canada, which can make it challenging to access for some travelers. Limited transportation options may also result in higher travel costs.
Limited amenities: While Whitehorse is the largest city in Yukon, it is still relatively small compared to other urban centers. This means that there may be limited choices for accommodations, dining, and entertainment options.
Seasonal tourism: Whitehorse is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, some attractions may be closed or limited during the offseason, which can impact the overall travel experience.
Potential wildlife encounters: While experiencing nature is a highlight of visiting Whitehorse, travelers should be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters, including bears and other animals. It's important to take precautions to stay safe in these situations.

These cons should be considered when planning a trip to Whitehorse, but overall the city offers unique natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities for those willing to embrace the challenges of traveling to this remote destination.

Whitehorse, the capital city of Yukon, Canada, has a rich history that dates back to its origins as a First Nations settlement. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Indigenous peoples, including the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.

Early History

First Nations Presence: Long before European settlers arrived, the area around present-day Whitehorse was home to Indigenous communities. The First Nations people relied on the abundant resources of the Yukon River for sustenance and established trade networks.

The Klondike Gold Rush

Late 19th Century: The Klondike Gold Rush of 1896-1899 was a pivotal event in the history of Whitehorse. The discovery of gold in the Klondike region attracted thousands of prospectors and led to the establishment of settlement routes through the area.
White Horse Rapids: The city’s name derives from the White Horse Rapids, named for their resemblance to the mane of a white horse. These rapids presented a significant challenge to the gold seekers traveling by raft or boat up the Yukon River.

Establishment and Growth

1900: Whitehorse was officially established as a city in 1900 with the completion of the White Pass and Yukon Route railway from Skagway, Alaska. This railway bypassed the dangerous rapids and became a major transportation route for stampeders and supplies.
Capital Status: In 1953, Whitehorse replaced Dawson City as the capital of the Yukon Territory due to its growing infrastructure and strategic location.

Significant Events and Figures

Robert W. Service: Known as the "Bard of the Yukon," Service was a poet and writer who captured the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush era in his works.
World War II: During the Second World War, Whitehorse gained strategic importance with the construction of the Alaska Highway, which was built to support military operations in Alaska. This brought economic growth and more permanent settlement.

Modern Development

Economic and Cultural Hub: Today, Whitehorse is the economic, cultural, and administrative center of Yukon. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, numerous festivals, and as a gateway to natural attractions.
Environmental Initiatives: Whitehorse has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability and environmental protection, balancing growth with the preservation of its natural surroundings.

Important Landmarks

SS Klondike: A restored sternwheeler that is now a National Historic Site, representing the era of riverboat transportation on the Yukon River.
Miles Canyon and the Whitehorse Rapids: These natural landmarks are significant both historically and geographically, offering insight into the challenges faced by early travelers.
Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre: This museum provides information on the Ice Age and the history of the land bridge that once connected Asia and North America.
MacBride Museum of Yukon History: Offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Yukon Territory, including the gold rush era.

Whitehorse continues to evolve, maintaining its heritage while embracing modernity, making it a unique and dynamic city in Canada's north.