Whitehorse

Why Visit

Where Wilderness Meets Adventure

Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory (since 1953, much to the dismay of much smaller and remote Dawson City), will probably play a significant part in your travel plans. The White Pass & Yukon Route railway from Skagway ended here in the early 1900s, and it served as a significant hub for work on the Alaska Highway during World War II. It also crosses the territory’s two principal highways, the Alaska and the Klondike. There are numerous outfitters and services available for exploration in the region.

Handpicked Adventures

Being the best place to see the Aurora in Canada, Whitehorse offers plenty of experiences for everyone. These include:

  • Aurora Viewing tours
  • Aurora Cabin experiences
  • Winter adventure packages
  • Photography tours
  • Custom group tours
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Top Things to Do

Visit Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

This location focuses on Beringia, which, during the last ice age, included the Yukon, Alaska, and eastern Siberia and was largely free of ice. Even the skeleton of a 3-meter-long huge ground sloth is part of the fascinating exhibitions that replicate the era, but some people favour the giant beaver.
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Northern Lights

The interaction of solar particles with the Earth’s atmosphere produces the aurora borealis, often known as the northern lights. Some of the greatest places to see this phenomenon are located in Whitehorse, particularly on the clear, dark winter nights. The peak activity usually happens about midnight, and the best periods to see the aurora are from late August to mid-April, as this is the ideal time to see Northern Lights in Whitehorse Yukon.

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Whitehorse Fish Ladder

Visiting the Whitehorse Fish Ladder can be an exciting addition to your Whitehorse Aurora Borealis Tours. Stare down a salmon at the Whitehorse Fishway, which is located past the hydropower plant south of town and is the world’s longest wooden fish ladder at 366 meters. Starting in late July, large viewing windows allow you to watch Chinook salmon float by (before that, it’s grayling). The Millennium Trail makes it simple to walk to the fishway.

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Whitehorse waterfront

You’ll want to take some time to wander along the Yukon River’s bank after just one glance. A region undergoing rehabilitation is anchored by the stunning White Pass & Yukon Route Station, which has been restored. The Kwanlin Dün Cultural Center is a striking addition in the middle. Shipyards Park at the northern end features an expanding collection of old buildings relocated from other parts of the Yukon.

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Suggested Itinerary Ideas

Usually, travellers visit Whitehorse to witness the northern lights in their full charm. Late August to October is the ideal early aurora season to experience the phenomenon. The time also features mild weather and clear skies. The time from November to March is the peak viewing period and is the best time for Whitehorse Aurora Borealis tours. You can also consider visiting during April when the fewer crowds give way to a quieter time and last visuals of aurora activity.

Day 1

Arrive in Whitehorse and prepare for your first Whitehorse Aurora Tour, heading out to a prime viewing location at night.

Day 2

Spend the day exploring Yukon’s culture and winter activities, followed by another Whitehorse Aurora Borealis Tour.

Day 3

Enjoy outdoor adventures like dog sledding or snowshoeing, then head out for your final aurora viewing experience.

Day 4

Add extra nights to increase your chances of witnessing stronger aurora displays and explore more of the region.

Nearby Places to Explore

Some of the nearby places that can give you really rewarding experiences around Whitehorse include:
  • Takhini Hot Springs
  • Miles Canyon
  • Claune National Park
  • Yukon River

Plan Your Whitehorse Trip with Bell Tours

Your journey to see the Northern Lights deserves more than just a checklist; it deserves thoughtful planning and the right expertise. Bell Tours brings together local knowledge, carefully selected viewing locations, and seamless travel arrangements to deliver a truly enriching experience. If you’re ready to explore one of the Best Places to See Aurora in Canada, let Bell Tours craft a Whitehorse adventure that feels effortless, immersive, and truly unforgettable, built around the magic of the northern sky.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Whitehorse located?

Whitehorse is the capital city of Yukon, Canada. Surrounded by mountains, forests, rivers and wide-open skies, it is a popular destination for Northern Lights viewing and outdoor adventures.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Whitehorse?

The Northern Lights can be seen in Whitehorse from late August to mid-April. November to March offers long, dark nights and is a popular time for Aurora viewing. Clear skies and solar activity also affect visibility, so sightings are never guaranteed.

What are Northern Lights tours in Whitehorse like?

Northern Lights tours take you away from city lights to locations with better views of the night sky. Depending on your tour, you may visit a comfortable Aurora viewing location or cabin while you wait for the lights to appear.

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?

No. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Cloud cover, weather and solar activity all affect visibility. Staying for several nights can give you more opportunities to see the Aurora.

How can I increase my chances of seeing the Northern Lights?

Choosing a location away from city lights, visiting during the Aurora season and staying for several nights can give you more opportunities to see the Northern Lights. However, weather and solar activity are beyond anyone’s control.

How long should I stay in Whitehorse for Northern Lights viewing?

If seeing the Northern Lights is one of your main goals, we recommend staying for at least three nights. A longer stay gives you more opportunities to experience clear skies and active Aurora conditions.

What should I wear and bring on a Northern Lights tour?

Whitehorse can be very cold, especially during winter. We recommend wearing warm layers, an insulated winter coat, snow pants, warm gloves, a hat and insulated boots. If you plan to take photos, bring your camera, a tripod and extra batteries.

Are Northern Lights tours suitable for families?

Yes. Northern Lights tours can be enjoyed by families, couples and groups. If you are travelling with children, let us know their ages and we can help you choose an experience that suits your group.

Can I combine Northern Lights viewing with other activities?

Absolutely. You can combine Aurora viewing with activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, sightseeing and visiting local attractions. Popular places to explore include Miles Canyon, the Yukon River, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve and local cultural sites.

How do I book a Whitehorse Northern Lights tour?

You can request a quote through the “Request a Quote” form on our website. You can also contact Bell Tours at 1-800-665-9501 or tours@belltours.ca. Tell us your travel dates, group size and interests, and we’ll help you plan your Whitehorse experience.

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