Yukon River Expedition – Part 2 (Carmacks → Dawson City)

Length: 12 days (9 on the river)
Price: $3,900 per person (CAD)
2026 Dates: June 9-20 • July 14–25 • Aug 25 - Sept 4
Note: Group discounts available—ask us for a custom quote.

Please contact us before booking any self-guided tour.

Yukon River Expedition – Carmacks to Dawson City

Trip Overview

Experience the most historic section of Canada's longest river on this 10-day / 9-night wilderness canoe expedition from Carmacks to Dawson City. This journey follows the route travelled by Indigenous peoples, Hudson's Bay traders, Klondike stampeders, and legendary sternwheelers through the heart of the Yukon.

After departing Carmacks, you'll immediately encounter the famous Five Finger Rapids and Rink Rapids, two of the Yukon River's most celebrated features. From there, the river winds through spectacular wilderness, towering bluffs, remote campsites, and abundant wildlife habitat before reaching the beautifully preserved Fort Selkirk Historic Site, where the Yukon and Pelly Rivers meet. Continuing north, you'll paddle through one of the most remote and scenic sections of the Yukon River before arriving in the legendary Gold Rush town of Dawson City.

Spend nine unforgettable days on the river, camping along secluded gravel bars and forested riverbanks while enjoying Yukon Wide's renowned riverside cuisine and the camaraderie of a true wilderness expedition. Travel in small groups of no more than eight guests per guide, ensuring a safe, personal, and immersive experience led by knowledgeable local guides.

After completing the expedition, enjoy two nights in Dawson City, including a full day to explore this National Historic Site. Visit Dredge No. 4, Discovery Claim, local museums, galleries, and shops, or spend an evening at the world-famous Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall before returning by road to Whitehorse.

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🗓️ Yukon River Expedition – Part 2: Carmacks to Dawson City

Day 1 – Arrival in Whitehorse

Arrive in Whitehorse and meet your guide and fellow paddlers for a trip briefing, gear check, and expedition orientation. Overnight hotel stay included.

Day 2 – Transfer to Carmacks

Travel north by shuttle to Carmacks, where the second stage of the Yukon River journey begins. Meet paddlers completing Part 1 of the expedition, organize equipment, and prepare for the days ahead. Camp near the river and enjoy your first evening in the wilderness.

Day 3 – First Day on the River: Five Finger Rapids & Rink Rapids

Launch onto the Yukon River and immediately experience two of its most famous features. Paddle through the historic Five Finger Rapids, once considered one of the greatest challenges for sternwheelers and Klondike stampeders, followed by Rink Rapids farther downstream. Continue through beautiful river valleys and camp along the riverbank.

Day 4 – Into the Heart of the Yukon

Continue downstream through remote wilderness, passing high bluffs, boreal forest, and abundant wildlife habitat. Watch for bald eagles, moose, and black bears as the river winds northward. Camp riverside.

Day 5 – Fort Selkirk Historic Site

Arrive at Fort Selkirk, one of the Yukon’s most important heritage sites, located at the confluence of the Yukon and Pelly Rivers. Explore the restored buildings of this former trading post and learn about its rich First Nations and fur trade history. Camp nearby.

Day 6 – Beyond Fort Selkirk

Leave Fort Selkirk behind and continue through broad river valleys and quiet stretches of wilderness. Enjoy the rhythm of expedition paddling as you make your way toward Dawson City. Camp on a scenic gravel bar or riverside campsite.

Day 7 – Final River Day to Dawson City

Your last day on the river brings sweeping Yukon landscapes and a growing sense of anticipation as you approach Dawson City. Arrive in the historic Klondike Gold Rush town and celebrate the completion of your journey. Overnight hotel stay included.

Day 8 – Explore Dawson City

Enjoy a full day exploring Dawson City's rich history and unique character. Visit sites such as Dredge No. 4, Discovery Claim, the Dawson City Museum, or enjoy an evening show at Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall. Overnight hotel stay included.

Day 9 – Departure

Depart Dawson City or begin your return journey to Whitehorse via scheduled transportation or onward travel arrangements.

Trip Highlights

• Paddle the legendary Five Finger Rapids and Rink Rapids
• Explore the historic community of Fort Selkirk
• Experience five days of wilderness paddling on the Yukon River
• Watch for moose, bears, eagles, and other northern wildlife
• Finish in the iconic Klondike Gold Rush town of Dawson City

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✅ What’s Included

• Professional Yukon Wide river guide
• Shuttle transportation Whitehorse → Carmacks, Dawson → Whitehorse
• Canoes, paddles, PFDs, and full safety equipment
• All camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, kitchen equipment, cooking gear)
• All meals during the river portion (Yukon Wide’s renowned riverside cuisine)
• Satellite communication for safety
• One hotel night in Whitehorse (arrival day)
• Two hotel nights in Dawson City (end of river trip)
• Entry to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Casino and Dredge No. 4

❌ What’s Not Included

• Airfare to and from Whitehorse
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Sleeping bag (bring your own or rent from Yukon Wide)
• Fishing license (if planning to fish)
• Alcohol (you may bring a modest personal supply)
• Meals in Dawson City (outside included hotel breakfasts)
• Personal clothing and gear (packing list provided)
• Gratuities for guides (optional but appreciated)

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