When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
The vast, snowy wilderness of the Yukon is at its most serene in January, with snow blankets stretching across the landscape. It’s an ideal time for winter sports, from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, particularly around Whitehorse, the capital. The stark beauty of the frozen Takhini Hot Springs beckons those seeking to soak in natural hot springs while surrounded by snow. For a more unique winter experience, the Northern Lights begin to make their nightly appearances in the clear, frigid skies.
February
February in the Yukon is often marked by deep snow and an ongoing winter chill. The region embraces this cold with a variety of outdoor activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Whitehorse celebrates winter with the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Festival, a lively event featuring ice sculpting, snowshoe races, and the famed “Sourdough Pancake Breakfast.” For visitors looking for a quieter, nature-driven experience, the snow-covered wilderness provides a tranquil atmosphere for winter hikes.
March
As the Yukon transitions out of its deep winter phase, the days begin to lengthen, and the temperatures remain cold, perfect for spring skiing. The Northern Lights continue to dazzle, as the skies become clearer. Spring skiing around Mount Sima or Fish Lake offers fantastic conditions for those seeking to make the most of the last days of the season. March also marks the start of wildlife sightings, with migrating birds returning, making it an excellent time for birdwatching.
April
April sees a shift in the season, though it’s still cold, and the Yukon maintains its snowy, winter charm. This is a great month for those who enjoy exploring the wilderness in relative solitude. The Ice Bridge over the Yukon River provides a unique walking experience, and wildlife like moose and caribou begin to reappear after the long winter. The Whitehorse area is also quiet, making it a peaceful time to explore local museums and cultural sites.
May
As temperatures warm slightly, the Yukon begins its transformation into spring. While snow remains on the mountain peaks, lower elevations begin to thaw, and the region becomes ideal for hiking. The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is one of the best places to spot animals awakening after winter, including muskox and bison. Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning spring views of glaciers and mountain ranges. It’s an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory birds return, and the first wildflowers start to bloom.
June
By June, the Yukon is officially welcoming summer, with warmer days and longer daylight hours. This is the season for outdoor adventure—whether it's hiking, canoeing, or fishing. Kluane National Park provides unparalleled beauty with its towering peaks and pristine wilderness. The Midnight Sun offers 24 hours of daylight in parts of the territory, making for endless exploration. The Yukon River is navigable by canoe, providing serene, scenic routes. June also marks the start of the Yukon River Quest, the longest canoe and kayak race in the world, held annually in Whitehorse.
July
With warm summer temperatures and extended daylight, July is one of the most popular months for visitors to the Yukon. The Yukon River comes alive with boating activities, and the hiking trails in Kluane National Park are in full bloom. It’s a prime time for wildlife spotting, especially in the Ogilvie Mountains or along the Dempster Highway. Whitehorse is vibrant with festivals, including the Yukon Arts Festival, celebrating local culture, music, and visual arts. A summer road trip offers the chance to explore the remote Tombstone Mountains and beyond, with their dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.
August
August offers a continuation of summer activities, with temperatures still comfortable for hiking and wildlife watching. The long days make for spectacular moments at Tombstone Park, where you can see the fall colors start to creep in at higher altitudes. This month is a great time for fishing in the Yukon River and its surrounding lakes, with fresh catches being made daily. Many visitors head to Watson Lake to see the famous Sign Post Forest, a quirky and iconic landmark in the region. The Yukon Gold Rush Trail remains a popular route for those interested in history and exploring old mining sites.
September
September in the Yukon brings cooler temperatures and a wonderful display of fall foliage, especially in the higher altitudes of Kluane National Park and Tombstone. This is a great time for outdoor photography and exploring the wilderness by foot or canoe. As the weather cools, it’s also a prime time for wildlife encounters, with moose and caribou being highly active. It’s also the final month for fishing season and for travellers wanting to experience the Yukon in a quieter, more reflective way.
October
As the Yukon transitions into autumn, the crisp air and changing leaves make it a beautiful time for exploration. Kluane National Park and the Yukon Wildlife Preserve see the last of the fall colours before the long winter sets in. For those seeking a more adventurous trip, dog sledding companies start preparing for the winter season by offering taster trips, and the Northern Lights begin to return to the sky, though they’re not yet at their peak. October is a great month for seeing local wildlife, including bears as they prepare for hibernation.
November
November brings the onset of winter, with colder temperatures and early snowfall. It’s an ideal month for those interested in winter sports and wilderness expeditions. Early-season dog sledding trips are available, and the Northern Lights start to intensify as the nights grow longer. This is also a time for those seeking a quiet, winter escape to enjoy fireside experiences in remote lodges or the small, historic town of Carcross, which remains peaceful before the busy winter tourism season.
December
The cold, snowy landscapes of December in the Yukon are ideal for a winter wonderland experience. Snowshoeing and skiing are popular activities, and the Northern Lights reach their peak, offering travellers a magical display of colours in the skies. For those visiting Whitehorse, the Christmas season brings festive events, and the winter atmosphere creates a sense of tranquility and adventure. It’s the perfect time for those who want to experience the rugged beauty of the Yukon in its most serene and untouched form, with towering snow-capped mountains and vast wilderness stretches waiting to be explored.
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