Yukon River

The Yukon River is one of North America's longest rivers, stretching 3,190 kilometers through Canada's Yukon Territory and the U.S. state of Alaska. It originates at Marsh Lake south of Whitehorse and eventually empties into the Bering Sea. Geographically, the Yukon Basin drains a vast area of over 830,000 square kilometers, characterized by expansive boreal forests and Arctic tundra. Historically, the river achieved global fame during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896, serving as the primary highway for thousands of prospectors heading toward Dawson City. Prior to European arrival, the Yukon was a vital resource for Gwich'in and Tlingit indigenous peoples for millennia, particularly for its massive salmon runs. In modern times, the river is the setting for the Yukon Quest, regarded as one of the world's most grueling dog sled races. Despite historical industrial use, the Yukon remains one of the most pristine and unregulated large river systems on Earth.

History & landmarks

Whitehorse

Capital of Yukon

More places

St. Elias Mountains

The highest mountain range in Canada located in Yukon, defined by massive glaciers.

Ogilvie Mountains

A mountain range in Yukon north of Dawson City, intersected by the Dempster Highway.

Klondike Gold Rush

The Klondike Gold Rush was the great Yukon gold boom that began in 1896.

Mount St. Elias

The second highest mountain in both Canada and the United States, on the border of Yukon and Alaska.