Flying into Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport Airport in Whitehorse keeps the region at your fingertips, with nearby places just a short drive away. Known as the Wilderness City, Whitehorse offers a perfect blend of rugged northern frontier and cozy urban charm. You will find a vibrant community where world-class art galleries and cozy sourdough bakeries sit right against a backdrop of massive snow-capped peaks and the rushing Yukon River. The energy here is electric, especially when the aurora borealis begins its dance across the dark night sky.

The spirit of the north extends well beyond the downtown core into the surrounding landscapes. A quick trip south leads you to the tiny, colorful community of Carcross, where you can walk across the world’s smallest desert or admire the stunning, swirling greens of Emerald Lake. Closer to town, the dramatic basalt cliffs of Miles Canyon offer breathtaking views from a swaying suspension bridge. You can also head toward the Takhini area to soak in natural mineral hot springs while the crisp mountain air keeps you refreshed. Whitehorse is a place where you can spend your morning learning about indigenous heritage at the Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre and your afternoon spotting elk and lynx at a nearby wildlife preserve.

Standout experiences include:

- Exploring the massive S.S. Klondike sternwheeler docked along the river - Hiking the scenic loop around Miles Canyon for incredible turquoise water views - Watching the Northern Lights shimmer over the horizon during winter months - Visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve to see wood bison and arctic foxes - Stepping into the Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre to experience local First Nations heritage - Seeing the world smallest desert in nearby Carcross - Taking a dip in the steaming pools at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs - Mountain biking the expansive trail networks on Grey Mountain - Stopping for a photo at the stunningly bright Emerald Lake - Sampling locally roasted coffee and fresh sourdough treats downtown