Whitehorse might be small, but it’s the beating heart of Canada’s north. It’s the capital of the Yukon Territory and the perfect base for anyone looking for wild landscapes, quiet adventure, and a taste of frontier history. The city sits along the Yukon River, surrounded by endless wilderness that starts almost at your doorstep. If you’re planning a trip north and wondering about the best things to do in Whitehorse, here are five experiences that show off the spirit of this unique corner of the world.
1. Soak in the Takhini Hot Springs
After a day of exploring the outdoors, nothing beats sinking into the Takhini Hot Springs. The pools are naturally heated, surrounded by forests and crisp northern air. In winter, you might even catch the northern lights while you soak, which is something that doesn’t happen in many places on Earth.
It’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown Whitehorse, and there’s a newer facility called Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs with modern pools and saunas. This is one of the most relaxing things to do in Yukon Canada, especially if you visit in the colder months.
2. Explore Miles Canyon
Miles Canyon is a slice of rugged beauty just minutes from downtown. The turquoise Yukon River carves through steep basalt walls, and you can walk across a small suspension bridge for incredible views.
The trails are easy and quiet, making it perfect for a half-day outing.
What’s special here isn’t just the view, it’s how close this wilderness feels to the city. Bring a picnic, walk the ridge, and you’ll understand why locals never get tired of this spot.
3. Visit the MacBride Museum of Yukon History
Whitehorse has deep roots in the Klondike Gold Rush, and the MacBride Museum is where that history comes alive.
You’ll find old mining tools, vintage photographs, and stories of the people who shaped the north. There’s even a full-sized log cabin inside.
It’s one of the most interesting things to do in Yukon Territory Canada if you want to understand what life was like when thousands of gold seekers passed through here in the late 1800s. The museum also highlights the First Nations cultures that have lived in this region for thousands of years.
4. Chase the Northern Lights
Whitehorse is one of the best places in Canada to see the aurora borealis, thanks to its clear, dark skies and easy access to viewing areas. The best time is from late August to April, when the nights are long.
You can book local tours that take you out of town for better viewing or simply head to a dark area along the Yukon River if you’re visiting independently.
Seeing the northern lights dancing overhead is easily one of the most unforgettable things to do in Whitehorse – it’s the kind of sight that makes you forget about the cold completely.
5. Drive the Alaska Highway (at Least Part of It)
The Alaska Highway starts right in Whitehorse, and even driving a short stretch feels like a trip into another world. Mountains, forests, and lakes stretch for hours with almost no traffic. Stop at viewpoints, take photos of wildlife, or just enjoy the sense of space that defines northern Canada.
If you have extra time, you can continue west to Haines Junction and into Kluane National Park, home to some of the tallest mountains in the country. Few roads offer this much freedom.
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