FROM GOLD panning to glaciers, this drive packs many of the Yukon’s premier historic attractions and natural wonders into one magnificent loop
Drive from Whitehorse to historic Dawson City, loop into Alaska and return through the scenic Kluane region. Government campgrounds and private RV parks dot this drive, along with hotels and B&Bs in the communities along with way.
Dawson City
Day 1 – Dawson City: Start heading for the goldfields along the meandering drive through the Northern Tutchone communities of Carmacks and Pelly Crossing. When you reach Dawson City you will start to feel the grit, heartache and golden dreams of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Dancehall girls at Diamond Tooth Gerties (© Michael Cowton)
Days 2-3 – Tour the Klondike: This authentic gold rush town is bursting with historic sites and attractions. Immerse yourself in the history of the region at the Dawson City Museum, Dredge No. 4, and the Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre. Join the dancehall girls at Diamond Tooth Gerties and try your luck at Canada’s oldest gambling hall.
Kluane National Park, Observation Mountain (© Yukon Government/F Mueller)
Day 4 – Kluane via Alaska: Leave the bustle of Dawson and take the free ferry across the Yukon River. Continue along the Top of the World Highway, then return to the Yukon on the historic Alaska Highway and re-enter Canada at Beaver Creek.
Haines Junction
Day 5 – Along the St Elias Mountains: Drive beneath the towering peaks of the Kluane Front Range. Watch for wildlife, and visit Burwash Landing, Destruction Bay and Haines Junction at the edge of the Kluane National Park and Reserve. Fill your days with wildlife viewing, walks and cultural experiences.
Klondike Rib & Salmon BBQ, Whitehorse: The best fish and chip shop in the world – according to the editor! (© Michael Cowton)
Day 6 – Wrap Up in Whitehorse: Enjoy the scenic short drive along the Alaska Highway back to Whitehorse. There you will find dining, shopping, and a range of attractions and day tours.
Don’t Miss Activity: Take a flight to see Canada’s tallest mountain – Mount Logan – part of the Kluane National Park and Reserve.
Yukon Heritage: While in Dawson City, tour the homes of Jack London, Pierre Berton, and the Bard of the Yukon, Robert Service.
Alaska Highway
With scenic drives into all corners of the Yukon, this a driver’s dream. The territory boasts a network of well-maintained highways that rank among the world’s premiere driving adventures. By road, it is an exhilarating combination of postcard scenery, historic communities, cultural attractions and adventure outings. This is a land of friendly characters, endless Midnight Sun and expanses of pristine wilderness. Come touring on the legendary Alaska, Top of the World, Klondike and Dempster highways. Visitors will love the Yukon pace and the chance to slow down, relax, and breathe the incredibly fresh air.
Wexas Travel offer a ‘Discover the Yukon’ 16-day tailor-made fly-drive from £2990 per person including flights. For more information telephone 020 7590 0622, email north.america@wexas.com or visit www.wexas.com/canada-holidays/offer/discover-the-yukon-104118.html
Complete North America offer a 14-day ‘Yes! Yukon’ tour from £3099 per person including flights. For more information telephone 0115 961 0590, email enquiry@completenorthamerica.com or visit www.completenorthamerica.com/just-yukon/
