The Spirit of the North

This evening you will have a chance to meet the rest of your group over an included dinner. This will also be an opportunity to hear more about your exiting week from your guide.

Overnight stay in the heart of Whitehorse.

Next on our itinerary is the Carcross Desert, a remarkable natural wonder that defies expectations. Often referred to as the “world’s smallest desert,” this unique landscape contrasts the surrounding forests and mountains with its vast stretches of sand dunes. We will explore this intriguing “desert”, where the shifting sands create ever-changing patterns, an unexpected sight in the Yukon’s rugged terrain. Witnessing this unusual phenomenon will surely be another highlight of our journey.

Continuing our adventure, we arrive at Carcross, a charming First Nation settlement, where the heritage of the Carcross/Tagish people comes to life. Stepping into the heart of the community, we will experience the warmth of the local culture and witness their deep connection to the land and their ancestors. You’ll have the chance to stroll around the town, interact with the friendly residents, and admire the traditional art and craftsmanship displayed throughout the area.

The Carcross Learning Centre, opened in June 2016, is a must-visit in this small settlement. The centre aims to educate visitors about the rich history, art, and way of life of the Inland Tlingit and Tagish peoples. Inside the center, we will be immersed in their traditional knowledge, artistry, and customs, gaining a deeper understanding of their profound cultural heritage.

As we conclude our day’s excursion, we’ll carry with us not only memories of the enchanting Emerald Lake and the fascinating Carcross Desert but also a newfound appreciation for the cultural significance of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation people. This journey through the Southern Lakes District of Yukon is a celebration of both nature’s wonders and the diverse cultures that have thrived in this remarkable corner of the world.

Overnight stay in the heart of Whitehorse.

Afterward, our journey will take us to Haines Junction, the gateway to the breathtaking wonders of Kluane National Park. We’ll start by exploring the local Da Ku indigenous cultural center, dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. Prepare to be enthralled by the exhibits, which vividly showcase their history, art, and profound connection with the natural world. A visit to the adjacent Visitors Informative Centre will provide you with a true sense of the scale and grandeur of this National Park. Encompassing the largest non-polar ice fields and boasting 17 of Canada’s highest mountains, Kluane National Park has earned its place as an UNESCO Natural Heritage site. The surrounding views of majestic mountains and glaciers will build anticipation for the adventure ahead.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted when we reach Kathleen Lake, nestled alongside Kluane National Park. Stroll along the tranquil lake shore, breathing in the crisp mountain air and marveling at the reflection of towering peaks on the water’s surface. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the park is home to a diverse array of animals, including grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and moose.

Our final destination is the charming First Nation fish camp of Klukshu. This picturesque location holds deep significance for the local Southern Tutchone people, who have been fishing the abundant salmon runs here for countless generations. Learn about their traditional fishing methods and, if the timing is right, witness the mesmerizing spectacle of salmon migrating upstream to spawn. It’s a scene that will stay with you forever.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way back to Whitehorse, cherishing the memories of the breathtaking landscapes, the rich cultural experiences, and the sense of awe that Kluane National Park has instilled in us. This day excursion has been a journey into the heart of Yukon’s history and natural wonders, leaving us with a deeper connection to the land and its people.

Overnight stay in the heart of Whitehorse.

Fort Selkirk, once a bustling trading post and a vital hub during the Klondike Gold Rush era, now stands as a preserved relic of the past. As we step ashore, we’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of a bygone era. Our knowledgeable guide will regale us with captivating stories of the region’s indigenous people, fur traders, and gold prospectors, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of those who once called this place home. After a fulfilling visit to Fort Selkirk, we return to Minto and continue our drive to Dawson City.

As we resume our journey, the landscapes continue to captivate us. We’ll pass by serene lakes, majestic mountains, and vast forests, all while learning about the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders from our expert guides. As the day draws to a close, we arrive at Dawson City.

Overnight stay in Dawson City.

Later in the afternoon, we have a fantastic cultural experience planned for you. We will visit the renowned Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the rich traditions and history of the local First Nations communities. Discover captivating art, listen to captivating stories, and learn about their way of life that has endured for generations.

After our cultural exploration, we’ll embark on an exciting boat excursion to Moosehide a fish camp of the local Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation. On the way your guide will explain you the history of Moosehide Village and it`s important role for the local First Nations.

Overnight stay in Dawson City.

In the evening we will visit Diamond Tooth Gertie`s and experience the excitement of an authentic Gold Rush-style casino and be entertained by a lively Can-Can show, paying homage to the city’s colorful past. You can also take the daring opportunity to try Dawson City’s most famous drink – the Sour Toe Cocktail. This peculiar concoction involves a real mummified toe placed in your drink, as per local tradition.

Overnight stay in Dawson City.

Later on we will cross the mighty Stewart and Pelly Rivers and will have a stop at the mesmerizing Five Finger Rapids, a geological wonder where the Yukon River has carved its way through the rocky landscape. You will have the opportunity to stretch your legs on a short hike to a vantage point at the rapids.

On our way back to Whitehorse we will make a short stop in the First Nations community of Carmacks where we will as well cross the Yukon River. Approximately an hour away from Whitehorse we will stop at the Braeburn Lodge where you have the option to taste one of their famous cinnamon buns. In the late afternoon we will return to Whitehorse.

Overnight stay in Whitehorse