How to Solo Adventure in the Yukon
I never would’ve thought that 28 countries later, the place where I would find my deepest reconnection with humans, nature and myself would be in the wildest province of Canada: the Yukon.
As a solo female traveller who had mastered the art of self-sufficiency, I was excited to conquer the heights of Canada’s wildest territory. But little did I know, this trip was going to change my life and approach to “solo travel” in a rather surprising and unexpected way.
What to Pack for a Trip to the Yukon
I could not keep calm. This was the fastest I had ever packed my bags, buzzing with anticipation. With a two suitcase allowance from Air North, I could pack more than what I would need for my first trip to the Yukon. Since I was travelling during shoulder season, I packed clothing items that could work for late spring and full-blown summer. For my outdoor adventures, I loaded my suitcase with a pair of hiking shoes, a pair of winter boots, thermal leggings (for possibly higher altitudes and cold nights), mittens, scarves and beanies, just in case (and, of course, just for style, too!).
How to Get to the Yukon
Travelling to the Yukon’s capital—Whitehorse—from Toronto takes just over seven hours with Air North. The short layover in Yellowknife gives you an “inflight” feel of the Northwest Territories. And over candid conversations with plane seat mates who were kinder than what I’ve ever experienced, I felt even more eager to arrive and discover what it was about the Yukon that so many people love.
Sue, on my right side, shared her reason for moving to the Yukon from Ontario: “The lifestyle is better, the air is purer.” Twenty years later, she’s never regretted her decision. Over delectable, locally made inflight meals served onboard Air North, we bonded in one of the most natural ways: sharing realities of what life in the Yukon was for her and expectations for what my first visit to this Canadian territory could be.
The best way to experience the Yukon solo is by driving or using an adventure tour provider. I opted for the latter. But the disillusionment sank in when I learned that some providers had not yet kicked off their operations for the year, and others were fully booked. This was far from the news I expected when I arrived, and failure to find a solution would have meant cancelling my first days of adventure in the Yukon.
After an entire afternoon spent calling multiple service providers, my newly made local contacts connected me to a new adventure travel company that was ready to kick off their tours but would only be available within two days. From that moment, I realized I needed to pivot in my approach and instead of relying on data online, focus on human, local-led information. In an age where I had single-handedly organized round-the-world trips with detailed information available online, the Yukon reminded me of one thing: nothing replaces getting out of your comfort zone and learning the best strategies from locals about how to explore their land.
Exploring Miles Canyon
Miles Canyon was one of the top bucket list experiences I had for my visit to the Yukon. With its striking basalt cliffs formed by ancient lava flow, it’s one of the Yukon’s most impressive sights—a natural wonder that offers an interesting glimpse into the Yukon’s rich history.
During the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s, the fast-moving waters of the Yukon River made the canyon a dangerous passage, but the current suspension bridge provides a safe method for hikers to cross. A relatively easy hike that spans about 4.8 kilometres roundtrip, travellers love it because of the 360-degree scenic views you get to experience while on the trail.
You can explore the Miles Canyon solo and kick off your hike at the trailhead a few metres away from the Miles Canyon Road. I hired a guide for this experience because I wanted to feel more connected to the place and learn more about the region. My guide easily became my new companion for the rest of my time in the Yukon.
Exploring Kathleen’s Lake in Kluane National Park
Kluane National Park was another one of the top destinations I had on my bucket list for the Yukon as it holds a deep connection to the region’s history and culture. Initially a traditional hunting and fishing ground for the Southern Tutchone people, the area became popular among prospectors searching for gold, though it never reached the frenzy of other regions.
Today, Kathleen Lake is a beloved spot for hiking, fishing and camping, where visitors can appreciate both its natural beauty and its historical significance within First Nation heritage. Getting there from downtown Whitehorse takes two hours of driving. Roadsides painted with snow-capped mountains make it feel like driving into a natural reserve where wildlife (grizzly bears, elk, wild horses, to name a few) pop out from their hiding places to add to the colourful experience of driving through the wildest highway.
The Kathleen Lake hike is a moderate trail for beginner to intermediate solo hikers, and with its gentle elevation gain, it’s accessible even for those with little hiking experience. It spans about five kilometres roundtrip and takes you through lush forests and along the serene shoreline of Kathleen Lake, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
As a well-marked trail, it is safe to go on your own, but ensure you’re equipped with tools for navigation, water, and appropriate gear, and let someone know your hiking plans. As someone who generally travels alone, I felt in better hands being led by a local guide, who added historical commentary that elevated the entire experience.
Every new outdoor experience was weaved into days in the city where I would eat and dine with locals and get to understand more of what makes the Yukon so magical. Beyond the wildlife and the breathtaking landscape, it’s the people that create the territory. This is the sense of community that I did not feel anywhere else in the country, and these experiences reminded me of the real reason why I started travelling in the first place: to connect with nature, people and their community.
Top Tips for Experiencing the Yukon Solo:
- Essentials: Carry your hiking essentials, and add some bear spray in the mix and know how to use it. Also carry cash with you, as it is always customary and good practice to have some on hand.
- Outdoor adventures: Consider hiring a local guide for hikes outside of Whitehorse. Not only are they knowledgeable about the destination, they can also act as further points of contact in case you need additional information or help during your stay.
- Packing: Pack everything you will possibly need for your trip, but for the hikes, carry only the essentials.
Disclaimer : The author was hosted as media by Air North and Yukon Hotels. This was not affiliated with explore.
