Yukon River Expedition | Dawson City, CA

Experience one of the most historic and spectacular sections of Canada's longest river on this unforgettable 12-day guided canoe expedition from Carmacks to Dawson City.

Follow the legendary Yukon River through the heart of the northern wilderness, travelling the same historic waterway used for generations by Indigenous peoples, fur traders, Klondike Gold Rush stampeders, and sternwheelers.

Beginning in Carmacks, your adventure takes you downstream through the famous Five Finger Rapids and Rink Rapids, two of the Yukon River's most celebrated landmarks. Beyond the rapids, the river winds through vast wilderness, towering bluffs, remote gravel bars, and beautiful northern landscapes.

One of the expedition's highlights is a visit to Fort Selkirk Historic Site, located at the confluence of the Yukon and Pelly Rivers. Explore this remarkable historic settlement and discover its importance to First Nations, fur traders, and early Yukon travellers.

Spend approximately seven and a half days travelling the Yukon River, camping along secluded riverbanks and enjoying freshly prepared meals, spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the camaraderie of a true wilderness expedition.

Our experienced Yukon Wide guides take care of the expedition logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the adventure.

Your journey concludes in the legendary Gold Rush town of Dawson City, where you'll enjoy two nights of hotel accommodation and a full free day to explore its colourful history, museums, restaurants, and attractions. Optional activities can be recommended and arranged upon request.

After your Dawson City experience, return to Whitehorse by scenic highway for a final overnight stay before your departure.

Experience the famous Five Finger Rapids and Rink Rapids.
Explore historic Fort Selkirk at the confluence of the Yukon and Pelly Rivers.
Travel approximately 400–415 km through spectacular Yukon wilderness.
Enjoy approximately 7.5 days of guided canoeing and wilderness camping.
Watch for moose, bears, bald eagles, and other northern wildlife.
Experience Yukon Wide's renowned riverside cuisine and wilderness hospitality.
Spend two nights in historic Dawson City, including a full free day to explore.
Enjoy comfortable hotel accommodation before and after your wilderness adventure.

Itinerary
Day 1 – July 15: Arrival in Whitehorse
Arrive in Whitehorse and settle into your hotel. Meet your guide and fellow adventurers for an expedition briefing, equipment check, and preparation for your Yukon River journey. Overnight hotel accommodation included.

Day 2 – July 16: Shuttle to Carmacks – Begin the Expedition
Travel north along the Klondike Highway to Carmacks, where your Yukon River adventure begins. After preparing the canoes and equipment, launch onto the river and enjoy your first afternoon of paddling. Establish your first wilderness campsite along the riverbank.

Day 3 – July 17: Five Finger Rapids and Rink Rapids
Experience two of the Yukon River's most famous landmarks. Navigate the historic Five Finger Rapids under the guidance of your experienced river leader before continuing downstream past Rink Rapids. Enjoy beautiful scenery and fascinating stories of the river's Gold Rush history. Camp along the river.

Day 4 – July 18: Into the Heart of the Yukon Wilderness
Continue downstream through remote wilderness, passing impressive bluffs, forested hillsides, and expansive river valleys. Watch for wildlife along the shore and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of travelling by canoe. Camp at a scenic riverside location.

Day 5 – July 19: Fort Selkirk Historic Site
Visit Fort Selkirk, one of Yukon's most significant historic settlements. Explore its preserved buildings and learn about the area's rich First Nations and fur trade history. Continue downstream or camp nearby, depending on river conditions and the group's progress.

Days 6–7 – July 20–21: Beyond Fort Selkirk
Journey deeper into the Yukon wilderness, travelling through broad river valleys and remote northern landscapes. Enjoy riverside lunches, wildlife viewing, photography, and evenings around the campfire. Camp along secluded gravel bars and forested riverbanks.

Day 8 – July 22: Final Wilderness Paddling
Continue downstream toward Dawson City, enjoying your final full day on the river. Take in the spectacular scenery and the peaceful solitude of the northern wilderness before settling into your final riverside campsite.

Day 9 – July 23: Arrival in Dawson City
Complete the final stretch of your Yukon River expedition and arrive in historic Dawson City. After unloading the canoes, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and a relaxing evening exploring this famous Gold Rush community.

Day 10 – July 24: Explore Dawson City
Enjoy a full free day discovering Dawson City's fascinating history and unique northern character. Visit the Dawson City Museum, explore historic buildings, tour the Klondike Goldfields, or enjoy an evening at Diamond Tooth Gerties. Optional excursions and activities can be arranged upon request. Overnight hotel accommodation included.

Day 11 – July 25: Scenic Return to Whitehorse
Travel south along the Klondike Highway, enjoying the beautiful Yukon scenery on your return journey. Arrive in Whitehorse and check into your hotel for your final overnight stay.

Day 12 – July 26: Departure
Enjoy breakfast and prepare for your onward journey. Depart Whitehorse with unforgettable memories of your Yukon River wilderness adventure.

Please note: Daily paddling distances, campsite locations, and the timing of historic site visits may vary depending on weather, river conditions, and group progress. Your guide will adjust the itinerary as necessary for safety and the best possible wilderness experience.