Oct 20
15m 53s
Hosts: David Brodie and Tim Johnson
Series: Travel in 10
Destination: Yukon Territory, Canada
Canada's Yukon Territory is a destination of remarkable wilderness, fascinating history and small communities with distinctive personalities. Home to Canada's highest mountain, thousands of glaciers and the legendary Klondike Gold Rush, the Yukon offers experiences that are increasingly difficult to find elsewhere.
In this episode of Travel in 10, hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson explore three of the Yukon's most compelling destinations: Kluane National Park, Whitehorse and Dawson City.
Drawing on more than half a dozen visits to the territory, Tim shares his favourite experiences, from landing on a vast icefield beneath Mount Logan to discovering boutique accommodations, gourmet wilderness dining and historic Gold Rush saloons. Along the way, David and Tim discuss why Canada's north deserves a place on more travellers' itineraries.
Whether you're planning a Yukon road trip, looking for a memorable outdoor adventure or interested in experiencing the territory's history and culture, this episode offers practical recommendations for exploring Canada's northwest.
One of Canada's most spectacular wilderness destinations, Kluane National Park is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to vast glaciers, rugged mountain ranges and extraordinary opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Visitors can explore the region through hiking, kayaking, canoeing and guided excursions. For travellers looking to experience the scale of the landscape without undertaking a multi-day wilderness expedition, flightseeing offers an alternative.
At 5,959 metres (19,551 feet), Mount Logan is Canada's highest mountain. Located within Kluane National Park, its immense summit and surrounding glaciers are among the highlights of aerial sightseeing excursions.
Tim recalls a particularly memorable flight that landed on an icefield, allowing him to step out onto the snow and experience the mountain landscape firsthand.
The Kaskawulsh Glacier is one of the remarkable glaciers accessible on scenic flights through the Kluane region.
Tim recommends experiencing the landscape from the air to appreciate the extraordinary scale of the territory's mountains and icefields.
Located outside Whitehorse, Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs offers a relaxing contrast to the Yukon's rugged wilderness.
Its geothermal pools provide an opportunity to unwind after hiking, sightseeing or exploring the surrounding region.
For David and Tim, both enthusiasts of hot springs and spa experiences, this is a particularly appealing stop on a Yukon itinerary.
Dawson City was at the centre of the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s, when thousands of prospectors travelled north in hopes of finding their fortunes.
Today, the town retains much of its historic atmosphere, including unpaved streets, wooden sidewalks and preserved frontier-era buildings.
Despite having visited more than 100 countries, Tim describes Dawson City as one of his favourite small towns anywhere in the world.
Visitors can try their luck searching for gold at Claim No. 6 near Dawson City.
Gold-panning equipment is available to rent locally, making this an accessible way to experience a tradition that helped shape Yukon's history.
Village Bakery & Deli, Haines Junction
A popular gathering place for residents and visitors exploring the Kluane region. The bakery offers hot and cold food, with outdoor picnic tables providing a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal.
Mount Logan Lodge, Haines Junction
Tim highlights the lodge's gourmet dining as one of the unexpected pleasures of visiting Kluane. During his stay, he joined the chef on a foraging excursion, gathering ingredients that were incorporated into the evening's dinner.
Bombay Peggy's, Dawson City
Housed in a former brothel, Bombay Peggy's is known for its distinctive atmosphere and cocktail bar. It's an entertaining place to experience a contemporary take on Dawson City's colourful past.
Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall, Dawson City
A historic gambling hall featuring live entertainment, including can-can performances inspired by the Klondike Gold Rush era.
A small community near Kluane National Park, Haines Junction serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding mountains, glaciers and wilderness.
Despite its remote location, visitors will find comfortable accommodation, local dining and access to guided outdoor experiences.
The Yukon's capital and largest city is much more than a place to arrive before heading into the wilderness.
Tim recommends spending time exploring the city itself, from walking along the Yukon River to discovering its restaurants and local artisan workshops.
During one visit, he participated in a glassblowing experience, highlighting the creative community that visitors can discover in Whitehorse.
Located farther north, Dawson City offers a particularly distinctive Yukon experience.
Its preserved Gold Rush character, historic hotels, entertainment venues and unusual local traditions make it an essential stop for travellers interested in the territory's history.
Mount Logan Lodge
A rustic mountain lodge offering comfortable accommodations within reach of Kluane National Park.
Tim stayed in a suite with a private balcony overlooking the mountains. The lodge also provides access to outdoor experiences, including guided excursions, short hikes and foraging activities.
Its combination of wilderness surroundings and elevated dining makes it an appealing choice for travellers who want to experience Kluane without camping.
A contemporary boutique hotel in downtown Whitehorse.
Tim recommends Raven Inn for travellers seeking stylish accommodations within walking distance of the city's restaurants and attractions.
One of several Dawson City accommodations recommended by Tim. An option for travellers who want to explore the town's historic attractions while enjoying modern conveniences.
Eldorado Hotel
A Dawson City hotel that Tim has stayed at during his visits. He recalls enjoying a particularly spacious Jacuzzi suite, although he isn't entirely certain which hotel offered it.
Another accommodation option recommended by Tim, providing a comfortable base for exploring Dawson City and the surrounding Klondike region.
A Dawson City accommodation included among Tim's recommendations for travellers looking for modern comforts in this historic northern town.
For Tim, seeing Kluane National Park from the air is among the most memorable experiences in the Yukon.
Helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft tours offer perspectives of the territory's enormous glaciers, mountain peaks and icefields that are difficult to appreciate from the ground.
Some excursions also include glacier landings.
During his stay at Mount Logan Lodge, Tim joined the chef to collect berries and other ingredients from the surrounding landscape.
These ingredients were later incorporated into dinner, connecting the dining