8 reasons to visit the Yukon region
The Yukon Territory which is located at the border with the region of Alaska in northwest Canada, is one of the least densely populated regions in the continent. This wild, scarcely populated territory is very attractive to both locals and foreigners who go to the region annually.
Mountains, valleys, lakes, glaciers, deserts, forests… Yukon has everything you could want to explore nature. Moreover, the inhabitants of the region are very friendly, open to getting to know new people and interested in their culture.
The name Yukon comes from the local aboriginal language and means “big river”. As well as being known for being the scene of the Klondike gold fever in the 19th century, the area is also known in the country for its historical, cultural and ecological wealth. The capital city is Whitehorse, which is situated south of the River Yukon. This will be the starting point of your adventure to discover this region so close to the Artic.
If you are searching for peace and tranquillity and want to live surrounded by real nature with no human interaction, Yukon is the perfect place for you. If you are interested in travelling to this destination, please remember to obtain your electronic travel permit beforehand, i.e. ETA Visa or ETA Canada.
If you are still not convinced after this brief introduction, here are eight reasons to go to Yukon:
1. Adventure
The variety of scenery in the Yukon Territory is perfect for all types of sporting activities and adventures. You don’t need to go too far away from Whitehorse to get your adrenalin shot. For example:
- Walking
- Excursions
- Camping
- Cycling
- Skiing
- Snowmobiles
- Dogs sleds
- Ice fishing
2. Wildlife and the conservation of species
For those of you who really want to experience life in the wild, Yukon is the perfect place. The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is the home to many indigenous species such as: bison, elks, muskox and caribous among other mammals. Moreover, you can bird spot, especially crows (the territory’s official bird) and eagles.
Don’t be surprised if you come across elks, squirrels or foxes, since they wander around the landscape close to civilisation looking for food.
3. Aurora borealis
In Canada’s most northerly point, there is no excuse for missing the celestial show of the aurora borealis. It is more likely to experience this phenomenon in the summer. Tourists generally meet up in Whitehorse for tours to see the aurora borealis. Less than 10 minutes away from the light pollution of the city, the aurora borealis can be seen perfectly. .
4. Emerald Lake
This beautiful lake in the south of Yukon is famous for its intense green colour. This colour comes from the light reflecting on marl deposits (grey rocks made from calcium carbonate and clay) on the floor of the deep waters. You can get there by the South Klondike road near Alaska.
5. The Carcross Desert
Known as the world’s smallest desert, the Carcross Desert has a surprisingly humid climate. Technically, this desert is only made up of large sand dunes from extinct glacial lakes, which are conserved by the action of the wind on the sands of Lake Bennett. The locals go to the desert to practice sandboarding, drive ATVs, etc.
6. Takhini Hot Springs
There is no better way to relax than in the thermal, mineral-rich waters of the Takhini Springs, which are just outside Whitehorse.
7. Conservation of the aboriginal culture
A quarter of Yukon’s population has indigenous aboriginal ancestry. They maintain the culture and traditions of this region, which acted as a bridge between Alaska and Siberia, in order to bring the humans to America in the last Ice Age.
8. Museums
Due its wealth of culture, Yukon has a lot of museums on offer. Some examples include the Yukon Transportation Museum and the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre.
