Whitehorse is a fantastic base for exploring Yukon’s wild side with a variety of full-day tours that showcase the territory’s rugged beauty and rich culture. Unlike just wandering on your own, these guided trips take the hassle out of planning and give you expert insights into the landscape and history.
We’re particularly fond of Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour for its stunning scenery and UNESCO status—it’s a must-see for anyone interested in Canada’s wild north.
Plus, the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour offers a more structured visit that includes cultural highlights like the Da Kų Cultural Centre.
For those wanting a more physically engaging experience, the Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour combines breathtaking lakes and terrain with a good hike.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll compare three top full-day tours in Whitehorse. The first takes you into the untouched wilderness of Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The second offers a comprehensive visit to Kluane with an emphasis on cultural sites and short hikes.
The third focuses on hiking through stunning landscapes around Carcross and the Southern Lakes, perfect for active travelers. Each tour has its own flavor and appeal, so read on to see which fits your Yukon adventure best.
1. Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour
This full-day tour packs a lot into 9 hours, taking you deep into Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its second-largest ice field on Earth. The trip includes transportation from Whitehorse, a knowledgeable guide, and stops at key spots like the stunning vistas of the park.
You’ll explore untouched wilderness and enjoy numerous photo opportunities that capture the stark beauty of Canada’s north.
The tour also offers insights into the Northern culture and traditions, making it not just a scenic trip but also an educational one.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on nature and cultural storytelling. The guide shares details about the park’s formation, indigenous heritage, and the geological features that make Kluane unique. The landscape includes glaciers, mountains, and forests, all accessible in a single day.
The review rating of 4.7/5 based on 10 reviews indicates strong satisfaction, particularly praising the breathtaking scenery and the guide’s expertise.
At approximately $226 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the extensive experience packed into a full day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to one of Canada’s wildest places without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.
Bottom line: This is ideal if you want to see glaciers and mountains up close while learning about the local Northern culture.
2. Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour | full day
For around $233, this Arctic Day offers a guided adventure that covers the essentials of Kluane National Park in about 9 hours. The tour picks up from Whitehorse and takes you straight to key highlights like Kathleen Lake, Rock Glacier, and the Da Kų Cultural Centre. It’s a smart choice if you want to maximize your time while minimizing planning.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Da Ku Cultural Center, where you can learn about the Champagne and Aishihik peoples. Next, you’ll enjoy a short but scenic hike to Rock Glacier, which provides stunning views of lakes and mountains—weather permitting, of course. The final stop at Kathleen Lake offers calm waters backed by towering peaks, perfect for a quick photo or a moment of quiet reflection.
Reviews highlight the stunning vistas and the informative guide. One traveler called the experience “beautiful views and frequent photo ops” and appreciated the “thoroughly enjoyed the tour.” The tour’s main appeal is its convenience—it packs multiple landmarks into one day, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule or who prefer guided logistics.
This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a balanced mix of cultural learning and outdoor sights without strenuous activity. It’s a good value for the price, especially considering the inclusions and expert narration.
Bottom line: A solid choice for travelers who want the highlights of Kluane with ease and good storytelling.
3. Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour
If you’re craving active exploration, this Hiking Tour is perfect. It costs about $209 and lasts roughly 6.5 hours, taking you from Whitehorse through some of Yukon’s most scenic areas, including Carcross and the Southern Lakes.
This trip emphasizes hiking along the Mountain Hero Trail, where you’ll learn about the region’s mining history and enjoy panoramic views of Lakes, including the iconic Emerald Lake. You’ll also visit Carcross Commons, a charming village with shops and cafes, and see the world’s smallest desert at Carcross Desert.
The hikes are described as suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, making it accessible to most active travelers.
The tour includes snacks and bottled water, keeping you fueled for a full day of walking. While there are no reviews included, the itinerary’s focus on scenic lakes, desert, and historical sites makes it a compelling choice for outdoor lovers. It’s best for those who want to combine hiking with sightseeing and prefer small group settings to avoid crowds.
The main downside is the shorter duration compared to the other two tours, so you’ll need to be comfortable with a moderate pace and a day packed with activity.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers eager to explore diverse landscapes on foot in one day.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Whitehorse
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on the road versus exploring on foot. If wilderness and glaciers are your priority, the Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour offers the most expansive experience. For a cultural and scenic overview, the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour combines landmarks with storytelling.
If hiking and active outdoor exploration are your priorities, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour delivers a hands-on experience.
Think about your physical fitness and weather conditions, especially if you plan on hiking. Booking early is recommended during peak summer months when Yukon’s wildlife and landscapes are at their best. Also, consider if you’re interested in cultural learning or simply want breathtaking scenery—each tour offers a different flavor of Yukon.
Final Thoughts
Whitehorse provides a great starting point for full-day adventures that range from awe-inspiring natural wonders to active hikes. If you want to tick off a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about Northern traditions, the Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour is a top pick.
For a well-rounded, culturally rich experience with shorter hikes and sightseeing, the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour fits the bill.
And for those eager to lace up their hiking boots and explore lakes and deserts on foot, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour offers a hands-on adventure.
No matter your choice, booking early and preparing for Yukon’s dynamic weather will ensure you make the most of these beautiful, rugged landscapes. Each of these tours offers a different taste of the territory’s raw beauty—pick the one that best fits your interests, and enjoy your time in the North.