Canadian Canoe Adventures – Yukon River
Embarking on a Yukon Canoe Adventure: Whitehorse to Dawson City
If you’re seeking an epic canoe journey that blends thrilling challenges with serene wilderness and a splash of history, look no further than the Yukon River adventure from Whitehorse to Dawson City. This iconic route, stretching over 715 kilometres (450 miles), promises a memorable 12-day expedition that any canoe enthusiast will treasure.
Led by Highland Experience Director Cory Jones, a summer 2024 expedition navigated the Yukon River’s spectacular landscape, renowned for its unspoiled beauty and historical significance. This journey through the remote Arctic North isn’t just about paddling; it’s an immersion into the wild heart of Canada and its storied past.
The Expedition: A 12-Day Wilderness Odyssey
The Yukon River, North America’s fourth-longest river, offers a canoeing experience that’s accessible yet filled with adventure. Despite the route’s popularity, the expedition felt delightfully isolated. With only occasional sightings of other groups, the experience was far from crowded. Having previously raced the Yukon River Quest in 2022, I was eager to return and explore the river at a more relaxed pace, absorbing its scenic and historical treasures.
Historical Echoes Along the Yukon
The Yukon River isn’t just a waterway; it’s a tapestry of history. From ancient First Nations fish camps to the Klondike gold rush era, the river’s banks are steeped in stories. The once-bustling river was a conduit for over 200 paddle steamers making their way from Whitehorse to the Pacific coast, earning it the moniker ‘River of Gold.’
Mike Rourke’s guidebook, Yukon River – Marsh Lake to Dawson City, proved indispensable. The waterproof case protected Rourke’s hand-drawn maps and detailed descriptions, helping us navigate river obstacles, historic sites, and potential campsites. The guidebook not only illuminated the route but also enriched our understanding of the river’s past.
Starting the Adventure: Whitehorse to Lake Laberge
Our journey commenced in Whitehorse, the Yukon Territory’s capital, known for its accessibility and outfitter services. After stocking up on supplies and ensuring our food barrels were bear-proof, we set off on July 20th. Though the day began wet, the weather soon improved, granting us mostly dry conditions with only occasional rain.
The first segment took us through a fast-flowing section of the Yukon River towards Lake Laberge. This 30-kilometer stretch offered a chance to adjust to our heavily loaded canoes, teeming with 14 days’ worth of supplies. The high cliffs and abundant wildlife, including sand martins, kingfishers, and bald eagles, set the stage for our adventure.
Navigating Lake Laberge: Challenges and Choices
Lake Laberge presented a formidable challenge. Known for its unpredictable winds and large waves, it required careful planning. At over 3 kilometers wide, choosing the right or left side of the lake is crucial. We opted for the shorter right side, using a small sail and rafting our canoes for stability. This decision allowed us to cross the lake in two days, a respectable achievement given the conditions.
For those seeking an alternative route, the Teslin River offers a gentler introduction to the Yukon River system, starting at Johnsons Crossing.
Discovering the Yukon: From Thirty Mile River to Carmacks
Post-Lake Laberge, the journey continued with the picturesque Thirty Mile River, known for its clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities. This section offered a serene contrast to the earlier challenges, with the chance to fish for Arctic grayling and explore historical sites like ghost towns and former logging camps.
Arriving at Carmacks, we indulged in a bit of civilization, enjoying amenities like showers and a grill bar. Despite the temptation to rest, we pushed on to the Five Finger Rapids, the only notable rapids on the route. Approached from the right, these rapids added an exhilarating touch to our journey of the Canadian Canoe Adventures.
The Final Leg: Fort Selkirk to Dawson City
As we ventured downstream, the striking white band of Sam McGee’s Ashes—a remnant of an ancient volcanic eruption—captured our attention. This feature, linked to Robert W. Service’s famous poem, provided a poetic backdrop to our adventure.
The Huchá Hudän / Fort Selkirk Historic Site was a highlight. Once a bustling hub, it now stands as a preserved relic of the past, offering a glimpse into the Yukon’s rich history. Imagining the once-thriving community and the paddle steamers that serviced it was a poignant experience.
Wildlife Encounters and Final Reflections
Throughout our expedition, we encountered diverse wildlife, including black bears and moose. Safety was paramount, with precautions like proper food storage and bear spray. Observing a black bear from a distance reminded us of the wildness that still pervades the Yukon.
Concluding in Dawson City, a town steeped in Klondike Gold Rush history, provided a delightful end to our journey. Exploring local attractions and reflecting on our adventure, we appreciated the contrast between the wilderness and the historic charm of Dawson City.
The Yukon River expedition from Whitehorse to Dawson City is a journey of a lifetime. It offers a blend of wilderness adventure and historical exploration, making it a must-do for paddlers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious novice, this route through one of North America’s most iconic landscapes promises an unforgettable experience.
Cory Jones, a Paddling UK Endorsed Canoe Guide, and Mandy E. Rush, an adventurer, author, and illustrator, co-founded Wee Wild Adventures, bringing their expertise and passion to wilderness experiences.
Join us on this trip? Find out more. Canadian Canoe Adventures are the best!
Comments are closed