Roam Locally Under the Northern Lights

Day 1-3: Explore Whitehorse & Area

Modelled after the famous Juvet Landscape Hotel in Norway, the Black Spruce cabins are a unique environmentally focused accommodation in the outskirts of Whitehorse. Located just a few minutes from the airport and the city centre, the cabins offer a different style of lodging from local hotels. Here you can stay in a fully contained passive solar cabin made from rough cut local Yukon spruce while being within a short drive of all the best restaurants, bars and attractions in Whitehorse.

With three nights in the Black Spruce cabins, you’ll have plenty of time to take in and appreciate all the cool features, such as the Shou Sugi-Ban siding (a Japanese technique of treating wood by burning), the cedar sauna that was cleverly built around existing boulders and is heated by a Finnish wood stove, and the rocky cliffs and forest of the adjacent park.

Spend your days relaxing in the cozy cabin, visiting eclectic Whitehorse and exploring the vast northern landscape. Your stay includes a visit to the recently renovated Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs (adults only) where you can relax and rejuvenate in the ancient restorative mineral springs and enjoy the onsite amenities that feature both Scandinavian and Japanese Onsen healing practices.

Take a trip to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, located approximately 30 min from Whitehorse, to see northern wildlife such as elk, Canada lynx, thinhorn sheep, wood buffalo and muskox.

In the evenings, head out to try some of Whitehorse’s best restaurants for dinner (we highly recommend the Wayfarer) and then drive out of town a bit to catch the Aurora Borealis on clear nights. You can join an optional Aurora viewing tour or visit some of the local favourite Northern Lights viewing hotspots on your own.

This northern getaway is perfect for those looking to travel independently and enjoy staying in one-of-a-kind accommodations. The proximity to the city and all of its amenities is a huge bonus especially during the winter months. The Black Spruce cabins are about 45 minutes from Carcross, which makes for an easy and scenic day trip.

Day 4: Fly to Dawson City

After landing in Dawson, you’ll have time to relax at your hotel before joining a late morning Parks Canada walking tour of the town. This 1 hour tour will give you the foundation to understand what a special place Dawson is and the role it has played in Canadian history.

In the afternoon, you’ll be whisked away on a private tour of the many sightseeing highlights around Dawson that will help to bring its famous Gold Rush history to life. Dawson is the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, which began when three men discovered gold on what is now known as Bonanza Creek, a tributary of the Klondike River. This tour will show you all the important spots including the Goldfields, Dredge number 4, Bonanza Creek and the top of the Midnight Dome for a scenic view of the Yukon River, the valley and the mountains in the background.

In the evening you’ll have time to explore on your own. We recommend a visit to ‘Gerties’ – the Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall is a local institution with a unique Klondike period style, cancan entertainment and a friendly vibe.

Your guide will pick you up at 11:00pm for Aurora Borealis viewing at an intimate site in West Dawson. You’ll notice immediately that in this northern climate, the nights are usually very crisp and clear – the perfect formula for seeing an incredible Aurora.

You’ll have access to an indoor facility that is heated and very comfortable. You’ll be offered coaching to take great photos of the Northern Lights and provided with hot drinks as you await the beautiful nightly show (fingers crossed). You will return to the hotel at 2:00am.

Day 5: Explore Dawson City

This morning, enjoy a well-deserved sleep-in. Late in the morning, visit the Dawson City Museum.

For the rest of the day, you might take a stroll along the Yukon River or try some local cuisine at one of the town's charming restaurants. We suggest a visit to Bon Ton & Company, a restaurant that serves amazing locally sourced food in a contemporary setting that rivals eateries in Vancouver or Toronto. For those seeking more adventure, consider the option to experience an exhilarating snowmobiling adventure through the scenic trails of Dawson City.

At 11:00 pm, your guide will pick you up for your second night of Aurora Borealis viewing.

Day 6: Day At leisure

Spend the day at your leisure. Options include a guided tour along the famous Dempster Highway to see Tombstone Territorial Park, or a private cultural crafting activity and artist talk with food.

Day 7: Return to Whitehorse

Today it's time to say goodbye to Dawson. You’ll have some time today to take one last look around the historic streets of Dawson City. In the afternoon we will transfer you from your hotel to the airport where you will catch your flight back to Whitehorse. Tonight you will enjoy one last night of free time in the Yukon's capital. If you wish you could head out for one last aurora tour (additional charge) for another chance to view the Northern Lights.

Day 8: Departure

Shuttle transfer to the airport for your flight home