Yukon River Fly-In

Looking for the most exciting way to experience the Yukon River in just one week? The Yukon River Fly-In Expedition delivers adventure, history, and wilderness in a compact 6 day river trip.

Instead of battling the winds of Lake Laberge, you’ll soar above it on a breathtaking floatplane flight, landing at Lower Laberge where the historic journey begins. From here, the river carries you downstream into Yukon history and wilderness.

Along the way, you’ll visit legendary sites like Hootalinqua, once a vital Northwest Mounted Police and telegraph outpost, and Big Salmon Village, an old Indigenous settlement that offers a glimpse into life on the river generations ago. Camps are set on gravel bars and forested banks, with Yukon Wide’s renowned riverside cuisine making each evening memorable.

With friendly currents, historic landmarks, and easy camping, this trip is an ideal fit for beginner and intermediate paddlers — and a great choice for families or travelers on a one-week holiday who want a true Yukon expedition without committing to a full three-week journey.

This is your chance to paddle the legendary Yukon River in style, combining floatplane adventure, history, and wilderness in one unforgettable week.

Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Whitehorse
Arrive in Whitehorse and meet your guide and group for an orientation and gear check. Overnight hotel stay included.

Day 2 – Floatplane to Lower Laberge / First Paddle
Board a floatplane and soar over Lake Laberge, landing at Lower Laberge. This is where the stampeders once set off, and where your river adventure begins. Paddle the first stretch downstream and set up camp along the riverbank.

Days 3–4 – Hootalinqua & the SS Evelyn
Continue downstream to Hootalinqua, once a Northwest Mounted Police and telegraph outpost. Visit the wreck of the SS Evelyn, a sternwheeler abandoned here during the gold rush era. Camp along the gravel bars and enjoy hearty riverside meals.

Days 5–6 – Big Salmon Village & Wildlife
Stop at Big Salmon Village, an important historic First Nations settlement. Along this stretch, watch for moose, beavers, eagles, and possibly bears. Campsites are set in wild, scenic locations each night.

Day 7 – Final Stretch to Carmacks
Enjoy your last day on the river before arriving in Carmacks, a small Yukon community on the Klondike Highway. Return shuttle to Whitehorse. Overnight hotel stay included.

Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to Whitehorse Airport for your onward journey.