Winter Activities
More Than Northern Lights: 5 Unforgettable Winter Days in Whitehorse
6 min read
More Than Northern Lights: 5 Unforgettable Winter Days in Whitehorse
1. Dog sledding
The quintessential northern adventure. Meet a team of eager huskies, learn to work the runners, and glide through silent snowy forest — or ride wrapped in blankets while a guide drives. Half-day trips near Whitehorse need no experience, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
2. Snowshoeing
The simplest way into the winter backcountry. Strap on snowshoes and walk across untracked snow through boreal forest and frozen wetlands. It’s quiet, meditative, and needs almost no skill, making it perfect for all ages and abilities.
3. Ice fishing
Drill through a metre of ice on a frozen lake, drop a line, and wait for lake trout or northern pike in the crisp, clear air. Guided trips provide the gear, the know-how, and often a warm hut and hot drinks.
4. Cross-country skiing and fat biking
Whitehorse has an excellent network of groomed ski trails right by town, and studded-tire fat bikes let you ride packed snow trails year-round. Both are how locals stay active and sane through the cold months — join them.
5. A hot-spring soak
End any winter day at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, where you soak in steaming water while the cold nips your face and frost forms in your hair. On a clear night the aurora may appear overhead — the perfect bridge from day to night.
String a few of these together and you’ll discover that Yukon winter isn’t something to endure between aurora sightings — it’s the main event, morning to night.
Frequently asked questions
What winter activities need no experience?
Snowshoeing, guided ice fishing, and introductory dog-sledding tours all require no prior experience and suit most ages and abilities.
How cold does it get, and can I still go out?
Winter temperatures often sit well below freezing, but with proper layered clothing you can comfortably enjoy full days outdoors. Many operators loan heavy parkas and boots.
Can I combine daytime activities with aurora viewing?
Absolutely. Many visitors spend days dog-sledding or snowshoeing and nights aurora hunting, and some operators combine a hot-spring soak with a chance to see the lights.
Where to stay
Rooms worth pairing with this guide.
Ready to plan this trip?
Real prices for the places this piece names.
