Plizio Visual Lab

Whitehorse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Whitehorse is the capital of Yukon and the largest city in Northern Canada, positioned in the scenic Yukon River valley and surrounded by majestic mountains. The city's name is derived from the White Horse Rapids, which were said to look like the manes of charging white horses before they were submerged by a hydroelectric dam. Historically, Whitehorse gained prominence during the Klondike Gold Rush as a vital transportation hub where prospectors transferred from the railway to riverboats heading toward Dawson City. Today, it serves as the territory's administrative and commercial center, offering a base for exploration of the vast subarctic wilderness. Key historical sites include the SS Klondike National Historic Site, a preserved sternwheeler, and the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, which details the region's prehistoric ice-age past. Due to its location under the auroral oval, Whitehorse is a world-class destination for viewing the Northern Lights, particularly during the crisp winter months. The economy is primarily driven by government services, tourism, and mining exploration, while the community is enriched by a strong indigenous presence and an animated arts scene. Its proximity to Miles Canyon and numerous pristine lakes makes it a premier location for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing in the Great North.

Location: Canada
Top sights: DC-3 Airplane Weathervane · Wooly Mammoth Family · Arts Underground

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-17	-15	-13	-5	3	9	11	9	4	-4	-14	-16
Rain mm	42	27	31	28	39	70	73	70	61	57	42	41

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, can be visited year-round. The city is compact and provides access to wilderness and the Yukon River.

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Typical hours

Museums and visitor centres are typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, shorter in winter. Many outdoor activities are weather-dependent.

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Photography

Photography is allowed in the city and surrounding natural areas. For northern lights shots, a tripod and long exposure are required.

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Time needed

One to two days are enough for Whitehorse itself. For excursions to Kluane National Park or the Dempster Highway, allow extra days.

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Combine with

Combine Whitehorse with a visit to Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The drive on the Dempster Highway to Dawson City is also recommended.

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Getting there

Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY) serves the city. A rental car is almost essential for exploring the surrounding area.

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Insider tip

Plan your visit between September and March for the best chance to see the northern lights. Book a guided dog sledding ride for a unique experience.

History & landmarks

Gold Rush Era

1898

Geography

Elevation

640 m

Coordinates

60.72120, -135.05680

Facts

Capital of Yukon territory
Largest city in Northern Canada
Founded around 1900
Population of approx. 28,000
Located on the Yukon River
Gateway to the Arctic

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Whitehorse (10)

DC-3 Airplane Weathervane 📍 landmark

DC-3 Airplane Weathervane is an attraction in Whitehorse featuring a weathervane in the shape of a DC-3 airplane.

Wooly Mammoth Family 📍 landmark

Wooly Mammoth Family is an attraction in Whitehorse featuring sculptures of a woolly mammoth family.

Arts Underground 🏛 museum

Arts Underground is an art gallery in Whitehorse.

🌐 artsunderground.ca🕒 Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00; PH off

North End Gallery 🏛 museum

A gallery in Whitehorse.

🌐 yukonart.ca🕒 Mo-Sa 10:00-18:00

MacBride Copperbelt Mining Museum 🏛 museum

A museum about copper mining in Whitehorse.

🌐 macbridemuseum.com

McIntyre Creek Lookout 🌿 nature

A viewpoint overlooking McIntyre Creek in Whitehorse.

Yukon Arts Centre 🎭 culture

An arts centre in Whitehorse hosting performances and exhibitions.

🌐 yukonartscentre.com

Millenium Trail riverfront 🌿 nature

A nature reserve along the riverfront Millennium Trail in Whitehorse.

Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre 🎭 culture

A cultural centre of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation in Whitehorse.

The Old Fire Hall 🎭 culture

A theatre in a historic fire hall in Whitehorse.

🌐 yukonartscentre.com

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you see the Northern Lights in Whitehorse?

Yes, from September to April, chances are very good if the sky is clear.

What is the most famous historical monument?

The SS Klondike, a restored paddlewheeler from the Gold Rush era.

How do you get to Whitehorse?

Most visitors fly into Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport or drive the Alaska Highway.

What can you do in winter?

Dog sledding, snowshoeing, and relaxing in the Takhini Hot Pools.

How long are the days in summer?

In June, the sun barely sets, resulting in nearly 20 hours of daylight.

Whitehorse: where is it located?

Whitehorse is located in Canada.

Whitehorse: what is there to see?

Highlights include DC-3 Airplane Weathervane, Wooly Mammoth Family, Arts Underground.

Whitehorse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Whitehorse: why is it worth visiting?

Whitehorse is the capital of Yukon and the largest city in Northern Canada, positioned in the scenic Yukon River valley and surrounded by majestic mountains.

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