Itineraries

One week in Yukon

9 min read

The Dempster Highway winding through Tombstone Territorial Park

Days 1-2: Whitehorse warm-up

Fly into Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International, pick up the car, and base at Coast High Country Inn on 4th Ave for two nights (rooms from $175). Do Miles Canyon, the Wildlife Preserve, and Takhini Hot Springs on day one. On day two, drive south to Carcross (74 km) for Emerald Lake and the Carcross Desert. Lunch at Bistro on Bennett inside the train station, salmon plates around $24. Back by dinner for a proper meal at Wayfarer Oyster House.

Days 3-4: Kluane National Park

Drive west on the Alaska Highway to Haines Junction, 158 km and about 2 hours. Stay at Raven Inn (rooms from $160) or Kluane RV Kampground cabins from $110. Do the Kings Throne trail above Kathleen Lake, a steep 10 km return with the best view in the park. Next morning, book a Rocking Star Adventures flightseeing tour over the icefields — $445 for a 90-minute flight, and it is worth every dollar. Dinner at Frosty Freeze for a Yukon burger, $16.

Days 5-6: Dawson City

This is the big drive: Haines Junction to Dawson via the North Klondike Highway is 720 km, closer to 9 hours. Break in Carmacks at the Coalmine Campground burger stand. In Dawson, stay at Bombay Peggy's on 2nd and Princess (rooms $180) or the Downtown Hotel. Do the Discovery Claim, the Jack London and Robert Service cabins, and take the free George Black Ferry across the Yukon River to the Top of the World Highway lookout. Sourtoe Cocktail at the Downtown Hotel bar, $10 plus $5 for the toe.

Day 7: Return via Tombstone

Detour up the Dempster Highway to Tombstone Interpretive Centre at km 71.5, about 90 minutes each way from Dawson. Do the North Klondike River viewpoint trail, one hour return. Drive back to Whitehorse — 533 km, 6.5 hours — or fly Air North direct from Dawson for around $250 one way if you booked a car drop-off. Last dinner at Klondike Rib and Salmon before an early flight out.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I budget for a week in Yukon?

Realistically $2,800 to $3,800 per person including flights, car, mid-range lodging, food, and one flightseeing tour. Yukon is expensive — food is 30% above southern Canada.

Is the drive to Dawson City worth it?

Yes, but only if you have at least 5 days total. The town is a genuine gold rush relic with wooden boardwalks and no chain hotels.

Can I do this loop in winter?

Yes with a winter-package rental and snow tires. Allow an extra hour per driving segment and check 511yukon.ca daily for road conditions.

Do I need bear spray?

Yes if you plan to hike Kluane or Tombstone. Buy a can at Coast Mountain Sports on Main St in Whitehorse for about $50 — you cannot fly with it.