Discover the best winter activities in Yukon, Canada — from dog sledding and ice fishing to snowshoeing and soaking in hot springs. A guide to your ultimate Yukon winter adventure.
🌨️ Introduction
If you think winter is just something to endure, Yukon will change your mind. Up here, the cold months bring a season of adventure, wonder, and unforgettable moments.
From dog sledding across frozen landscapes to soaking in natural hot springs under the northern lights, Yukon offers world-class winter experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Here’s your guide to the top winter activities in Yukon.
🐕 1. Dog Sledding: A True Northern Tradition
Dog sledding (or “mushing”) is more than a tourist attraction — it’s part of Yukon’s heritage.
✅ What to Expect:
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Meet the huskies and learn to harness a team
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Ride as a passenger or try driving your own sled
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Tour lengths range from 1-hour to multi-day expeditions
🏞️ Top Operators:
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Sky High Wilderness Ranch
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Muktuk Adventures
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Yukon Dog Sledding
🧣 Dress warm — you’ll be moving, but it’s still Arctic cold!
🎣 2. Ice Fishing on Frozen Lakes
Drill a hole, drop a line, and wait for Arctic grayling, trout, or pike to bite — ice fishing is peaceful, rewarding, and deeply northern.
🧊 Where to Go:
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Fish Lake (near Whitehorse)
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Chadburn Lake
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Hidden Lakes Trail System
🪣 Guided tours include heated tents, gear, and snacks.
🚶 3. Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking
Explore snowy trails through quiet forests and frozen river valleys.
🌲 Best Trails:
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Grey Mountain Trail (Whitehorse)
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Takhini Hot Springs loop
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Millennium Trail (easy downtown walk with scenic views)
🎟️ Snowshoe rentals are available at local outfitters or tour companies.
🏂 4. Cross-Country Skiing
Yukon has a strong ski culture — with groomed trails, powder-filled backcountry, and a friendly community.
🎿 Where to Ski:
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Mt. McIntyre Nordic Centre (Whitehorse)
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Dawson City trails
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Eagle Hill Loop in Kluane region
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for beginners, families, and pros alike.
🌌 5. Northern Lights Viewing
Winter brings long, dark nights — perfect for catching the northern lights.
📍 Top Spots:
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Takhini area (away from city lights)
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Lake Laberge
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Aurora lodges and cabins
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Guided aurora tours (heated vans, photography help)
📸 Bring a camera and tripod, or just lay back and enjoy the show.
💦 6. Soak in Takhini Hot Springs
There’s nothing like sitting in warm, mineral-rich water while snowflakes fall around you.
🏞️ What to Expect:
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Two geothermal pools (freshly redesigned in 2023)
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Surrounded by forest, great views of the night sky
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Relaxing after a day of sledding or skiing
💡 Try the “hair freeze” challenge when temps drop below –20°C.
🎭 7. Winter Festivals & Events
Yukoners love to celebrate winter with music, art, and community.
🎉 Don’t Miss:
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Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Festival (February, Whitehorse)
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Available Light Film Festival
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Dawson City Snowshoe Shufflers races
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Frostbite Music Festival
💃 Expect quirky contests, local food, and warm northern hospitality.
🧳 What to Pack for Yukon in Winter
Yukon winters can hit –30°C or colder. Here’s how to stay warm:
Clothing Essentials:
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Base layers (thermal top + bottom)
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Insulated parka
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Snow pants
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Wool socks, winter boots
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Toque, mittens, scarf
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Hand and foot warmers
Gear:
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Headlamp (for dark mornings/evenings)
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Thermos
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Camera (with extra batteries)
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Sunglasses (snow glare is real)
🛏️ Where to Stay in Winter
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Aurora Lodges: Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Inn on the Lake
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Whitehorse Hotels: Raven Inn, Edgewater Hotel, Yukon Inn
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Cabins & Wilderness Retreats: Perfect for multi-night winter escapes
🌟 Conclusion
From dog sledding and ice fishing to northern lights and hot springs, Yukon turns winter into an unforgettable experience. The snow may be deep and the air may be crisp, but the people, wildlife, and adventures are warmer than ever.
So bundle up — and discover the winter magic that makes Yukon truly unique.
