Want to spot wildlife in Yukon, Canada? Discover the best places to see moose, bears, caribou, and more in the wild — plus essential tips for ethical viewing.
🏔️ Introduction
With more moose than people and vast, untouched landscapes, Yukon is one of the best places in North America to view wildlife in its natural habitat.
Whether you’re dreaming of seeing a grizzly bear, following caribou herds, or quietly watching a moose wade through a lake, this guide will help you find the right places, times, and tips to make it happen — safely and respectfully.
🦌 1. Yukon Wildlife Preserve
📍 25 minutes from Whitehorse
Best for: Guaranteed sightings, close-up photography
Home to over a dozen species native to Yukon, the preserve is a great introduction to the region’s wildlife. Animals roam in large, natural enclosures with plenty of space and scenery.
🦫 What you might see:
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Moose
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Muskox
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Mountain goats
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Woodland caribou
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Arctic foxes
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Bison
🚶 You can walk or take a bus tour year-round. Great for families and photographers.
🐻 2. Dempster Highway
📍 North of Dawson City
Best for: Remote wilderness and wild animal sightings
This 700+ km gravel highway cuts through some of the most remote and wild terrain in Canada. It’s prime territory for grizzly bears, caribou, and arctic wildlife.
🦌 Top animals to watch for:
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Grizzly bears (especially in fall)
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Porcupine caribou (mid–late summer)
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Wolves
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Foxes
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Ptarmigans and birds of prey
⛺ Be self-sufficient — services are limited and sightings are truly wild.
🦣 3. Southern Lakes Region
📍 Around Carcross, Tagish, Marsh Lake
Best for: Moose and migratory birds
The wetlands and lakes in this region attract moose, beavers, and waterfowl — especially at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and scan the shorelines.
🦢 Spring and fall bring thousands of migratory birds, including:
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Swans
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Geese
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Ducks
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Eagles
📸 Marsh Lake and Swan Haven are local favorites for birding and photography.
🦬 4. Along the Alaska Highway (Watson Lake → Kluane)
Driving the Alaska Highway through Yukon often leads to surprise wildlife encounters, right from your car window.
🦌 Watch for:
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Woodland bison (often near Liard River)
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Moose in ponds and marshes
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Black bears in berry season (July–August)
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Bald eagles perched in trees
🚙 Always pull over safely to observe or take photos. Keep your distance.
🐾 5. Kluane National Park & Reserve
📍 Near Haines Junction
Best for: Remote hiking & high-country species
This rugged park is home to glaciers, mountains, and incredible biodiversity. Wildlife spotting here takes more effort but can be extremely rewarding.
Animals to watch for:
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Dall sheep
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Mountain goats
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Bears
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Ground squirrels
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Coyotes
🥾 Try trails like King’s Throne or Auriol Trail for the best chances.
🧭 When to Go for the Best Wildlife Sightings
| Season | What You’ll See |
|---|---|
| Spring | Migratory birds, moose, bears waking up |
| Summer | Moose calves, bears foraging, caribou |
| Fall | Grizzlies feeding, moose rut, clear views |
| Winter | Tracks in snow, foxes, ptarmigan |
🌄 Best Times of Day: Early morning and just before sunset
🧠 Wildlife Watching Tips & Ethics
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Stay Quiet & Low-Impact
Move slowly, talk softly, and don’t disturb animals or their habitat. -
Keep Your Distance
Use binoculars or a zoom lens. Stay at least 100 meters from bears. -
Do Not Feed Wildlife
Human food harms animals and can lead to dangerous behavior. -
Follow Park & Roadside Rules
Pull over only where safe and obey wildlife signs. -
Be Bear Aware
Carry bear spray when hiking, make noise on trails, and store food safely.
📷 What Gear to Bring
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Binoculars or spotting scope
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Telephoto lens (200mm+ recommended)
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Tripod or monopod
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Wildlife field guide (or phone app)
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Warm layers and waterproof outerwear
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Snacks, water, and a first aid kit
📸 Tip: Shoot in early morning for golden light and active animals.
🌟 Conclusion
From roadside sightings to backcountry tracking, Yukon offers unmatched opportunities to witness wild animals in their natural home. The key is to come prepared, stay respectful, and enjoy the privilege of being a visitor in their world.
Whether you’re capturing photos or simply enjoying the moment, Yukon’s wildlife will leave you awestruck.
