road trip vancouver to whitehorse

Garibaldi Provincial Park, BC, Canada taken as a panorama shot of the mountains and lake at early evening with a dramatic sky.

Road Trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

If you're up for an impossibly scenic drive through the Canadian wildness, then the epic road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse, with its picturesque scenes that frame every inch of your drive, is the perfect city break for you.

The 2,560km road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse will take you 30 hours to drive. The route passes Prince George, Rocky Mountains and Muncho Lake as well as Rancheria Falls, Cottonwood Island Nature Park, Pink Mountain, Marsh Lake and Miles Canyon.

There is so much to see on this drive north through British Columbia into Yukon territory, so read on and create your ideal itinerary. We outline the best route to take, where to stop along the way, the best attractions to add to your trip, and the best time of year to make this epic journey.

How far is Whitehorse from Vancouver and how long will the road trip take?

The epic road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse will take around 30 hours to complete and is a mighty 2,560km long.

You could put your feet firmly on the pedals and complete this trip in a couple of days, but with so much scenery and wildlife en route, you'd definitely be missing out.

A much better option would be to split this trip over four to five days and include a couple of fantastic overnight stops.

Whitehorse to Haines Junction, Yukon Territories, Canada with yellow and orange grass in the foreground and a road leading to the scenic snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Best road trip route from Vancouver to Whitehorse

The beautifully scenic route from Vancouver to Whitehorse will take you through Prince George, up to the Northern Rocky Mountains and onto the final destination of Whitehorse, Yukon.

There is no disputing this route is long, but while there is a fastest route available at 2,400km, at only two hours quicker it's worth taking a little more time to see what Northern Canada has to offer.

Road trip route from Vancouver to Whitehorse

Leave Vancouver on the Trans-Canada Highway heading east, through Abbotsford, Hope and Boston Bar and to Lytton. Stop here for a visit to Stein Valley Heritage Park, or continue north to Cache Creek.

You could take a detour to visit Kamloops, or on BC-97 north and alongside Churn Creek Protected Area and through some pretty towns before arriving at Prince George.

Next continue on the BC-97 north to Muncho Lake, passing the Northern Rocky Mountains Provincial Park. After passing the town of Coal River, take Yukon 1 west and follow this road all the way to your destination of Whitehorse.

Muncho Lake in British Columbia, Canada with the calm water in the foreground and mountain in the distance taken on a sunny day.

Best places to stop between Vancouver and Whitehorse

With such a lengthy journey, you will need at least a couple of overnight stops on the road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse.

There are some beautiful hidden gems for places to stay on this trip. Here are just a few of the ones you won't want to miss:

Explore and unwind in Prince George

About 9 hours away from Vancouver, an ideal early overnight stop for those wanting to stretch their legs and explore after the first stint of driving, Prince George awaits.

Prince George, British Columbia, Canada taken on a winters day with snow on the hills and the lake frozen with the town beyond in the distance.

Packed with stunning natural sites - from the Fort George Canyon Provincial Park to the Eskers Provincial Park - Prince George is full of character and history. Discover several nature parks, in addition to wineries, distilleries, museums and ski villages.

Prince George is the largest city in northern BC, so there are ample ways to explore this charming place. From dramatic whirlpools at Fort George Canyon Provincial Park to the Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum, there's something in this city for everyone.

There are several options for places to stay here, but something special has to be said for the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA which is only 4km from Cottonwood Island Park and the Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum.

This 4-star, modern hotel has a fantastic indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna, making sure that when you arrive you can rest and recuperate. Rooms are well presented and there's free parking, a Japanese steakhouse and bar and lounge onsite.

With great hotel amenities and stunning scenery around, there's endless land to explore and a comfortable room to relax in afterwards - what more could you want?

Overnight stop in Muncho Lake, British Columbia

Close to the stunning scenery of the Northern Rocky Mountains, Muncho Lake is the ideal setting for another overnight stop. Just over 8 hours from your destination, it's the perfect place for a rest before arriving at Whitehorse.

Stone Mountain Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada with blooming alpine meadow in the foreground and Flower Springs Lake and mountains in the distance.

The Northern Rocky Mountains, a short drive from Muncho Lake, paint a far more raw image of British Columbia. The majestic mountain peaks and vast, towering trees are nothing short of magic and will imprint memories for a lifetime.

Spend some time exploring Muncho Lake Provincial Park or visit nearby Stone Mountain Provincial Park. You can also spend time in Road River or Liard River, more superb locations for great trails and wildlife hunting.

With stunning waters and the ultimate scene of the Northern Rocky Mountains, The Northern Rockies Lodge is the perfect place to put your feet up or your hiking boots on .

This 4-star resort is located directly on the Alaska Highway halfway between Fort Nelson and Watson Lake and is open year-round. Featuring the only restaurant and bar in town, plus a rustic wood-fired sauna, this lodge has incredible mountain views and comfortable rooms.

With an array of activities from fishing and water sports to the nearby Liard River Hot Springs, the lodge is sure to awaken the adventurer within and allow your wild side to come to life!

Things to see on a road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

There is such an abundance of activities and sights on offer along the way from Vancouver to Whitehorse, that you could easily spend several weeks exploring them all.

However, if you have limited time to spare, below is a list of some of the best things to do along the way:

Kamloops, Canada with a scenic Lookout at the town and river and mountains beyond, taken at sunset with a dramatic sky.

Garibaldi Provincial Park - Offering over 90km of established hiking trails, this park with stunning monitions and lakes is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Kamloops - This Canadian city is a popular destination with nearby Sun Peaks Resort's hiking trails and numerous ski runs to the northeast. Explore the British Columbia Wildlife Park east of town or spot clay hoodoos at Kamloops Lake.
Cache Creek - A historic village full of character with trails and beautiful bodies of water perfect for canoeing and boating. The Historic Hat Creek is worth a visit with more than 20 of the original indigenous buildings remaining to explore.
Northern Lights Estate Winery - Boasting glorious views on the Nechako riverfront, this unique and carbon-neutral winery promises to tickle your taste buds and provide a feast for the eyes.
Cottonwood Island Nature Park - This park is located where the Nechako River and Fraser River collide and is a must for keen walkers. At the park, there is a stunning viewpoint looking down over the Nechako River.
Pink Mountain - During wildflower season, this mountain lives up to its name and produces a magnificent fuchsia array due to the fireweed blossoms. This is a pure treat for the eyes so check your road trip aligns with this season if you want to experience the magic!
Prophet River Hot Springs - Nestled about 60km from the Alaska Highway, these black spruce surrounded hot springs are the ideal spot to melt worries away in the warm, tranquil waters.
Northern Rocky Mountains Provincial Park - Offering an exciting array of visual and recreation features, this park is ideal for those looking for outdoor or wildlife exploring.
Toad River - Offering stunning trails and even more hot springs, the opportunities for exploration here are endless. As the name suggests, large toads were spotted in the 19th century so be sure to keep an eye out for these on your travels around the river.
Liard River - Another stunning example of Canadian beauty, the Liard River offers a sanctuary for visitors looking to breathe in fresh, crisp air and delve into the mild waters.
Rancheria Falls - The cascading waters of the Rancheria Falls provide a marvellous companion for the trails available. Though there is no singular dramatic waterfall along this trail, the many smaller falls create such a fairytale feel as they envelop together one by one.
Marsh Lake - Surrounded by wildlife, raw scenery and offering activities such as fishing and boating, this is the ideal place to slip into an oasis of relaxation.
Miles Canyon - Recognised as one of the most beautiful sites in Whitehorse, Miles Canyon possesses fast-flowing, turquoise waters to mesmerize its visitors while they explore the Yukon River.
Stone Mountain Provincial Park - Discover spectacular landscapes and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities at this 26-hectare mountain wilderness.

Miles Canyon, Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada taken during fall with yellow colors in a stunning view of the water surrounded by trees on a sunny day.

Best time to go on a road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

The best time to embark on a road trip between Vancouver to Whitehorse very much depends on what you're after in terms of attractions and things to do.

That said, a popular time to visit Yukon territory is in the late spring, summer or early fall. The warm months in this part of Canada will be busier, but with temperatures averaging 77 degrees Fahrenheit, the attractions en route will be open and there will be plenty of activities on offer, such as hiking or canoeing.

For quieter parks and attractions, the spring and fall months bring in fewer crowds, great scenery (think spring flowers and orange, red and yellow leaves in fall) and mostly pleasant weather. Just remember to pack some extra layers for cooler evenings.

If you're after snow and skiing conditions, you might prefer the colder months. Starting in November and lasting for three months, winter can see temperatures as low as 29 degrees. While January sees the most snow, there's a chance of catching it from late September to early April.

For a truly memorable experience, why not time your trip with a festival or two. Every summer the Yukon International Storytelling Festival sets a stage for storytellers from all over the world. Alternatively, why not visit Kamloops between July and August to enjoy their Music in the Park events?

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Roadtrip from Vancouver to Whitehorse: What to Do and See

With so many natural beauties to see in Canada, a road trip is the perfect vacation idea for spring, summer, or early fall. If you are planning a trip along the beautiful west coast of Canada, two wonderful destinations are the cities of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Whitehorse, Yukon. But are you able to see both cities on a single road trip? And what is there to see between them?

Can you drive from Vancouver to Whitehorse? A road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse is lengthy but can be completed within a week. A 1488 mile (2,396 km) trip, this journey takes around 30 hours of steady driving along the fastest route. Driving about 310 miles (500 km) a day, this trip will take around one week.

The fastest route between Vancouver and Whitehorse follows BC-1 east out of Vancouver, continuing when it transitions to 97 N outside of Cache Creek, British Columbia , until Prince George, where you will hop on to BC-16 W, then BC-37 N, then Yukon 1 W to Whitehorse. Along this route are many natural beauties, a wealth of fun Canadian cities of all sizes, and lots of opportunities for stops and exploration. Read on to learn about some of the best gems along this route between Vancouver and Whitehorse!

Quick navigation

Things to Do Between Vancouver and Whitehorse

There are many historically and culturally vibrant towns you can visit and scenic parks and views you can take in along the way during your trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse. The following are some of the most popular pit-stops worth checking out:

If you are not from Vancouver but have flown in or driven in for the sake of this trip, this is definitely going to be your first destination to explore. Explore the city on foot or rent bikes. If you want to relax before taking off on your trip, a visit to the scenic Stanley Park or Queen Elizabeth Park could be just the thing for you.

Explore the Granville Island area of Vancouver , a former industrial site now home to restaurants, galleries, and theaters, or a more classic part of town, the Gastown district, home to cobblestone streets, studios and bars. Visit Canada’s largest aquarium, the Vancouver Aquarium .

Take a steep hike (the “Grouse Grind”) or a ski-lift up Grouse Mountain to get a stunning view of the land you are about to set off across. Walk across all 450 feet of the Capilano Suspension Bridge , which dangles daintily 230 feet above the Capilano River.

Seton Lake & Lillooet

Perhaps it is not good form to begin your trip with a detour. But if you venture a little ways off of BC-1 through the town of Lillooet, you will come to the stunning Seton Lake Recreation Area. The view here, stunning, tranquil waters underneath cool blue mountains, is enough the justify adding an hour or so to your total trip.

Pull into the car park and take in the view, before heading to quaint little Lillooet for a bite to eat or a glass of wine. For those interested in Japanese-Canadian history, this town is a gem: Visit the Miyazaki House, former home of Japanese immigrant, doctor and community leader Dr. Miyazaki, as well as the Japanese Canadian Internment Memorial Garden . Grab a drink at the Fort Berens Estate Winery or the Cliff and Gorge Vineyards .

Williams Lake

Just off the highway in Williams Lake, you will find the Scout Island Nature Reserve . This is not a deep-woods stop, but it is an excellent opportunity to get out, stretch your legs, and walk beautiful nature trails, eat a picnic, etc. For more intense hiking opportunities, check out the Churn Creek Protected Area or the Williams Lake River Valley Trail . Stop through the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin to learn some history about the area, and check out the largest saddle collection in western Canada.

Prince George

While your purpose in this road trip is probably not to spend too much time in large cities, your trek along Highway 97 will take you through the town of Prince George , “The Gateway to the North.” The largest city in northern British Columbia, Prince George is an excellent destination to get a hot meal, stock up on any supplies you may need, and spend some time taking in the luxuries of a city before you hit the road once more.

If you want to take your time and explore a bit more, Prince George features excellent hiking and wildlife observation in parks such as the Cottonwood Island Nature Park , Purden Lake Provincial Park , and Eskers Provincial Park . Take the steep, short uphill hike to the top of Teacup Mountain, where you will be met with a stunning 360-degree view of the landscape around you.

Lastly, for the history and science fans, Prince George offers a great selection of museums that could make for a good “indoor” stop along your way. Some of the best are the Prince George Railway Museum , the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre , and the Huble Homestead Historic Site .

After Prince George, you will be hopping on BC-16 W, the TransCanada highway. You will make the transition once again from inland mountainous landscape to coastal landscape: your views out the window will become greener, more forested, lusher.

New Hazelton

A roughly five-hour drive (438 km) from Prince George, you will find an excellent opportunity to get out, take in the views, and even take a hike in the district of New Hazelton. It will be well worth your time to take a brief detour north of New Hazelton to see the masterwork of the Hagwilget Canyon Bridge . This stunning suspension bridge stretches elegantly over the Hagwilget Canyon on the Bulkley River.

Constructed in 1931, the bridge spans 262 ft (80 m) across the canyon. Marvel at the bridge from a distance, or dare yourself to drive across the canyon before you head on your way! The historic downtown area of Old Hazelton may also be worth a visit, and be sure to catch a glimpse and snap a picture of the majestic Roche De Boule, the mountain peak that towers above New Hazelton.

The New Hazelton Lookout and Waterfall Trail present a perfect opportunity for a shorter woodland walk that provides an excellent view over the valley and the town.

You will want to gas up your car before heading on. As you turn up BC-37 N just past New Hazelton, a long stretch of road that is as remote as it is stunning opens up in front of you. This stretch is through the Swan Lake/Kispiox River Provincial Park , which offers a rich masterpiece of landscapes: grandiose, snow-capped ranges of mountains stretching high above lush, straight and majestic pine forests, with crisp, crystal rivers winding their paths through it all — all of it under open, bright skies.

Highway 37 will take you all the way to the Yukon border, where you will hop on Yukon 1 W, the Alaska Highway. Again, wherever you may stop, the greatest part of this portion of your trip is going to be the views you see as you go: the northern mountains get taller and icier, the trees change, and the sky changes. Look out your window and make your way across Yukon to Whitehorse.

Whitehorse

The capital city of Yukon, the quaint mid-sized city of Whitehorse is the stopping point of this road trip and can be a fun place to explore. If you are interested in checking out yet another startling suspension bridge over a canyon, then be sure to visit Miles Canyon, hike its many trails, and walk across its 25-meter suspension bridge, which was built in 1922 and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.

If you are in search of more wildlife, you may be interested in making the 30-minute drive from Whitehorse to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve . A guided tour at the wildlife preserve will lead you through views of moose, caribou, mountain goats, elk, thin-horn sheep, and other animals distinctive to this region. Both guided bus tours and hikes are available on the 350-acre preserve.

The Trip Back to Vancouver

If you have flown into Vancouver and are flying out of Whitehorse—and have been taking your tip in a rented car—you do not have to worry about your return journey.

However, if you are in your own car, you are going to have to figure out your next steps, unless your plan is to remain in Whitehorse. One option, of course, is to continue back down the same route you initially took to Whitehorse, returning to Vancouver by the same roads and through the same towns.

There are some advantages to this method. For one, it might be easier to keep your return trip as quickly as possible if you are driving a route that is now familiar to you. It is also best if you have already made stops along your way and perhaps are not so tempted to detour for substantial amounts of time to visit or see places you have already seen. For a slow road trip there, and a quick one back, traveling the same route can simplify the process.

But if you are interested in drawing out the trip more and visiting more towns and landmarks, or you just want to make your accelerated trek back on new roads, and through a slightly different part of the country, you might consider taking another route home that is just slightly longer, or a comparable distance.

One great alternate route back to Vancouver from Whitehorse that adds just around an hour continues following highway 1 at the border of British Columbia, instead of transferring over to 37. This route will take you much further east, beyond the mountains, and through some beautiful Canadian plains out to Fort Nelson, before continuing south through Grand Prairie , Grande Cache, and Mt. Robinson Provincial Park and Kamloops, before crossing back over the southern mountain range before returning to Vancouver.

If you are taking this alternate route back to Vancouver, here are some of the things you might make time to stop and see or do:

Watson Lake

Here’s a quirkier one. Stop in Watson Lake for a slightly less earthy hike: a trek through the “ Sign Post Forest .” Very much what it sounds like, this attraction features rows and rows of old, bizarre, and just plain regular signs from all over the world. Wander through the forest of signs and see what you can spot!

For another unique experience in town, visit the Northern Lights Centre to experience a virtual version of that northerly phenomenon through the facility’s state of the art panoramic video and surround sound features. If you have been unlucky enough not to spot the real deal thus far in your trip, this might be an excellent opportunity to fake it!

Stone Mountain Provincial Park

If you are still feeling the itch for some wilderness exploration at this point in your trip, this provincial park, Stone Mountain , right along Highway 97 before you come to Fort Nelson is just the spot. You will catch the amazing views of this park from the Alaska Highway if you just keep driving, but pull over to see the lakes up close, go for a hike, or even take a kayak out for a spin on one of the lakes.

Klua Lakes Protected Area

Also right off of this driving route, this remote wilderness area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing opportunities, and even more gorgeous views of lakes and trees. Take a hike back into the woods and experience the tranquility of remote Canadian woods.

Fort St. John

If you need a break from all of the wilderness to listen to some live music or sit in a hip little brewery, or to knock another classic off of your Canadian bucket list — a hockey game — a stop in Fort St. John might be a good one for you to make as you continue on this route.

Catch a local ice hockey game in the Pomeroy Sport Centre , which is equipped with two NHL sized hockey rinks. Sip on a local beer at the Mighty Peace Brewing Company , and then catch a local band or a comedy act at The Lido Theatre , a cool concert and performance venue that is held in a revamped heritage building. If you are still craving more trees, take a saunter in the Charlie Lake Provincial Park or the Beatton Provincial Park.

Grande Prairie

For the brief stint in which this course will take you into Alberta, you will likely want to make a stop in the city of Grande Prairie, the only large town along this entire alternate route. The Grand Prairie Museum provides lots of great history and information about the area, while the stunning and well-kept Muskoseepi Park offers a great place to view the beauty of that area.

The Grant Berg Gallery is an excellent stop for art lovers. The premier commercial art gallery of the region, it represents roughly 40 artists. It offers a sleek and comfortable gallery experience, and about half of the artists featured are local.

Jasper National Park of Canada

One of the jewels of Canada, Jasper National Park , is right along this route. The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, extending over 11,000 square kilometers, this park features spectacular views, exceptional trails and hikes, opportunities for water activities, backcountry camping, kayaking and canoeing, excellent stargazing opportunities, and much more.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Trip

While these routes take you on major Canadian highways and through many cities and towns, these are still roads through Canada, and inclement weather could pose a severe danger if you become stranded and isolated during one of the more isolated stretches of the trip. Snow typically arrives in this region in October, sometimes earlier. On the other hand, the snowy winter season can often last from the spring through April, and even past then, the chilly weather tends to linger on.

For these reasons, the typical, most enjoyable, and safest range of dates for road tripping in this region is from late spring through early fall, and June through early September. While some venture out earlier or later, and some even intentionally go to see the snows, a long, remote road trip is definitely not the safest way to do so.

Regardless when you decide to take a drive, stay safe, be adventurous, and enjoy the beautiful climate, landscapes, and spirit of the stunning Canadian coastlands and mountains that await you.

Roadtrip from Vancouver to Whitehorse: Essential Stops

Srdjan Ilic
September 26, 2023

Having traveled extensively around the world, I’ve come to appreciate the unique beauty and charm that each destination offers. But there’s something truly special about the journey from Vancouver, one of the most populous cities in Canada , to Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon.

The scenic landscapes, the rich history, and the diverse cultures make this road trip an unforgettable experience. Let me take you on a journey through this mesmerizing route, sharing personal anecdotes and insights along the way.

1. The Allure of the Journey

The Sea to Sky Highway

The Sea to Sky Highway, officially known as BC Highway 99, is a testament to nature’s grandeur. As you drive from Vancouver to Whistler, you’re greeted with switchback turns, awe-inspiring views, and numerous bucket-list stops.

One of my personal favorites is the detour to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre , where the rich history of the indigenous people comes alive.

Whistler’s Winter Wonderland

Whistler, just 120km from Vancouver, is a world-renowned destination for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. But beyond the snowy slopes, the village offers high-end shopping and endless outdoor activities.

I remember sipping hot cocoa in one of the local cafes, watching the world go by, and feeling the vibrant energy of the place.

2. The Heart of British Columbia

As you delve deeper into British Columbia, the landscapes change, but the beauty remains constant. Each town has its own story, its own charm.

Pemberton’s Autumn Beauty

Just 35km from Whistler, Pemberton is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its stunning fall colors, the town is also a hub for outdoor sporting events.

On one of my visits, I chanced upon a local marathon and cheered alongside the residents, feeling the community’s warmth and spirit.

The Serenity of Highway 99

Driving 175km drive from Pemberton, you will witness the awe-inspiring mountain ranges of the Interior Plateau. This stunning route presents glimpses of the serene Lillooet Lake, the recently reopened Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, and the charming community of Lillooet.

I often found myself pulling over just to soak in the views, capturing moments that photographs could never do justice to.

3. The Rustic Charm of the Cariboo Highway

The Vibrancy of 100 Mile House

Located 275km from Pemberton, 100 Mile House is the primary service center for the South Cariboo. But beyond its services, the town has a charm of its own.

I recall a chance conversation with a local at a gas station, leading to an impromptu detour to a hidden waterfall.

Williams Lake’s Adventurous Spirit

90km from 100 Mile House, Williams Lake might be small, but it’s bustling with energy. Known for its outdoor adventure community, the town offers world-class mountain biking and other recreational activities.

During one of my stays, I joined a local biking group, and the trails we explored were nothing short of exhilarating.

4. The Northern Mystique

As you head further north, the landscapes become more rugged, the towns more sparse, but the allure of the journey only intensifies.

Quesnel’s Historic Charm

Just an hour north of Williams Lake, Quesnel offers a delightful blend of history and modernity. With a population of around 10,000, it’s the perfect spot for a breakfast stop.

I remember wandering through its streets, stumbling upon a self-guided walking tour that took me through the town’s rich First Nations history . The aroma of freshly baked goods from a local bakery still lingers in my memory.

Prince George: The Urban Oasis

With a population exceeding 73,000, Prince George’s is a bustling city that offers a stark contrast to the serene landscapes you’ve traversed. It’s a place where urban sophistication meets wilderness.

During one of my visits, I explored the Huble Homestead Historic Site and was transported back in time, imagining the pioneers who once called this place home.

5. The Enigmatic Stewart Cassiar Highway

The Historic Kitwanga

At the junction of Highway 16 and 37 lies Kitwanga, a village steeped in history. The totem poles scattered throughout the town tell tales of fierce First Nations tribal battles from centuries ago.

On one of my trips, a local elder narrated stories associated with each totem, making the history come alive in a way no book ever could.

The Isolated Beauty of Dease Lake

After hours of driving through some of BC’s most remote areas, Dease Lake offers a welcome respite. It’s a place where you can relax, refuel, and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

I recall a serene evening by the lake, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, reflecting upon the adventures of the day.

6. The Final Stretch: Towards Whitehorse

The Tranquility of Teslin

Before reaching Whitehorse, the village of Teslin offers a glimpse into the life of the Teslin Inland Tlingit First Nation. The vast Teslin Lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts.

I remember casting a line into the serene waters, feeling a deep connection with nature and the land.

The Wilderness City: Whitehorse

Finally, you arrive in Whitehorse, a city that beautifully blends the wilderness with modern amenities. After the long journey, the city offers numerous attractions, from historical sites to natural wonders.

One of my fondest memories is of a local music festival, where the melodies resonated with the spirit of the journey, celebrating the beauty of the land and its people.

7. The Yukon’s Hidden Gems

Dawson City: Echoes of the Gold Rush

A few hours from Whitehorse, Dawson City stands as a testament to the Klondike Gold Rush’s fervor . Walking its wooden sidewalks, I felt transported to a bygone era.

The old saloons, the historic buildings, and the tales of prospectors seeking their fortune added a rich texture to my journey. One evening, I even tried my hand at gold panning and, to my delight, found a tiny gold flake!

Kluane National Park: Nature’s Grandeur

Nestled in the southwest corner of the Yukon, Kluane National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for nature lovers. The first time I set foot in the park, I was awestruck by the towering peaks of the St. Elias Mountains and the vastness of the glaciers.

A guided flightseeing tour gave me a bird’s-eye view of the park’s majesty, a memory I cherish to this day.

8. Embracing the Northern Lights

The Yukon’s night sky offers a celestial spectacle that’s nothing short of magical.

The Aurora Borealis Experience

One of the most profound experiences of my travels in the Yukon was witnessing the Northern Lights. On a clear winter night, away from the city lights, the sky danced with colors.

Greens, pinks, and purples swirled above, creating a mesmerizing display. Wrapped in a warm blanket, with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, I watched the lights until the early hours of the morning.

Takhini Hot Springs: A Warm Embrace

Located just outside Whitehorse, Takhini Hot Springs offers a unique experience. On a chilly evening, I remember sinking into the warm mineral-rich waters and gazing up at the starry sky.

The contrast of the cold air and the hot springs, combined with the tranquil surroundings, made for a rejuvenating experience.

9. The Culinary Delights of the Yukon

The Yukon’s diverse culture is reflected in its culinary offerings, each dish telling a story of its own.

Traditional First Nations Cuisine

During my stay in Whitehorse, I had the privilege of attending a traditional First Nations feast. The dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, offered a blend of flavors that were both unique and familiar.

From smoked salmon to bannock, each bite was a journey through the region’s rich history.

Modern Yukon Eateries

The Yukon’s culinary scene is not just limited to traditional dishes. Modern eateries in Whitehorse and other towns offer a fusion of flavors, combining global cuisines with local ingredients.

I recall a delightful evening at a local bistro, where the chef combined Yukon game meat with international flavors, creating a culinary masterpiece.

10. Farewell to the Yukon

Reflecting on the Journey

Sitting by the Yukon River on my last day, I reflected on the journey. The places I’d seen, the people I’d met, and the experiences I’d gathered were all a testament to the beauty and diversity of Canada.

The Promise to Return

As I drove back, with the Yukon in my rearview mirror, I made a silent promise to return. Such a land, with its vast landscapes and rich history, beckons one to explore its depths time and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should i spend in whitehorse.

Whitehorse has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. For a comprehensive experience, a stay of 3-5 days is recommended.

This allows you to explore the city’s attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and partake in outdoor activities.

Can you drive to the Yukon from Vancouver?

Yes, you can drive from Vancouver to the Yukon. The journey covers approximately 2,400 kilometers and can take around 24-30 hours of driving, depending on the route and stops you make along the way.

What is the most scenic drive in Vancouver?

The Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is often regarded as the most scenic drive in Vancouver. It stretches from Vancouver to Whistler and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal rainforests, and towering mountain ranges.

How to drive from BC to Yukon?

The primary route to drive from BC to Yukon is via the Alaska Highway (Highway 97). Starting from Dawson Creek in BC, you’ll traverse beautiful landscapes, passing through Fort Nelson, and Watson Lake, and finally reaching Whitehorse in the Yukon.

Is it safe to travel to the Yukon right now?

Safety can be contingent on various factors, including weather conditions and current health advisories. It’s always advisable to check with local authorities or the official Yukon government website for up-to-date travel advisories before planning your trip.

Where can I see Aurora in Whitehorse?

Whitehorse offers several prime locations to witness the Aurora Borealis . Popular spots include the Takhini Hot Springs, Fish Lake, and areas outside the city limits where light pollution is minimal.

Many local tour operators also offer guided Northern Lights viewing excursions.

What is the best month to see the northern lights in Whitehorse?

The Northern Lights are most visible in Whitehorse between September and April. However, the peak months for viewing this natural spectacle are typically December, January, and February when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest.

Is Whitehorse Yukon expensive?

Whitehorse, like many northern cities, can be more expensive than some southern Canadian cities due to the cost of transporting goods. However, costs can vary based on factors like accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities.

It’s always a good idea to budget accordingly and check current prices before your trip.

Final Words

Traveling to Whitehorse and the Yukon offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re chasing the ethereal Northern Lights, exploring the vast wilderness, or delving into the region’s Gold Rush past, the Yukon promises memories that will last a lifetime.

As with any journey, preparation is key. Equip yourself with the latest information, plan your itinerary, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this northern gem.

Safe travels and may your adventures be filled with awe and wonder!

I am a Business Economics graduate from Singidunum University in Novi Sad, currently contributing to the Southwest Journal as a content creator and SEO team lead strategist. My professional journey includes a two-year period in Ocean City, USA, and extensive travels throughout Canada, experiences that have enriched my global outlook and influenced my writing style. Professionally, I am dedicated to producing engaging content and effective SEO strategies. Outside of work, I enjoy skiing and exploring new adventures, always valuing the power of human connections. My diverse skills and passion for life drive my success in various endeavors.

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The Golden Circle Route – An Epic Yukon Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated: February 9, 2024

Everything you need to know to complete one of the best Yukon road trip itineraries in Canada – the Golden Circle Route.

Known for its vast expanse of jagged mountain range peaks, snowy icefields, turquoise lakes and Arctic tundra, the Yukon Territory in Canada’s far north is the kind of off-the-beaten-path destination that you come to once, and never want to leave.

While most travellers head to more popular places like Banff in the Rockies, those with a sense of adventure will seek out the country’s more remote frontiers, and this is where the Yukon shines brightly.

From more well-known places like Dawson City, Kluane National Park and the Alaska Highway to lesser-known adventures following the Klondike gold rush settlements along the Yukon River or the Dempster Highway to the top of the world, there is nothing like a Yukon road trip!

Whether it is for a week or a month, the freedom of having your own vehicle in such a wild place will ensure you have a plethora of amazing views and intrepid experiences all to yourself.

With a limited amount of time though it can be tough to narrow down the perfect itinerary that will encompass all that the Yukon has to offer.

We had only 7 days of driving in the Yukon to find the perfect route, and today we want to share it with you so you can add this road trip to your bucket list!

Table of Contents

Check Out the SS Klondike

Where to stay in whitehorse, take a scenic flight over kluane national park, visit the da ku cultural centre, hike the auriol trail, mount logan lodge, welcome to alaska, see the grizzly bears at chilkoot river, drive to chilkat state park, go sea kayaking, where to stay in haines, the white pass and yukon route train journey, explore the klondike gold rush history in town, where to stay in skagway, check out the first nations art, hike montana mountain, visit the carcross desert, where to stay in carcross, day 7 – carcross to whitehorse (73km), best time to drive the golden circle route, rent an suv, never let the fuel drop below half-full, book accommodation and tours ahead of time, you can do the golden circle route in either direction, don’t forget your passport, it will take longer than you expect, there’s very little phone signal, the golden circle route yukon road trip.

The Cabot Trail. The Icefields Parkway. The Golden Circle Route. The Dempster Highway. The Alaska Highway. The Klondike Highway.

These are just some of Canada’s best road trips, and while the first two are deservedly popular, and which we have had the pleasure of driving when we lived in the country, it’s the third one that truly left us humbled.

Circling the far south of the territory, and crossing briefly into British Columbia and Alaska, this journey incorporates some of the legendary highlights the Yukon is famous for.

Conducted as a loop starting in Whitehorse, this trip is perfect for travellers of all ages and styles, from family vacationers to grey nomads, adventurous couples and groups of friends.

There are other great options in the territory, such as the Dempster Highway and Top of the World, taking the highway to Dawson City and bouncing along gravel roads and chasing the midnight sun.

But if you’re looking for the best Yukon road trip itinerary, this is the one for you.

READ MORE – Coming in winter? Then check out our post all about dog sledding in Yukon !

From Whitehorse head to Haines Junction, bordering the Kluane National Park and home to the world’s largest non-polar icefield.

Continue to the pretty town of Haines in Alaska, which is much more than just a popular dock for cruise ship passengers.

Those with their own vehicle can get out to the rugged peninsula, make the most of the incredible hiking opportunities, or even have one of the planet’s most remarkable wildlife encounters!

Head across the waters to Skagway to dive into the region’s gold rush history, with a trip along the famous White Pass and Yukon Route train ride that helped shape the economy of the Yukon.

The last spot is Carcross, the location of what’s known as the world’s smallest desert, and proudly showcasing a multitude of First Nations art.

It really is a wonderful adventure, and after completing the trip ourselves, we’re thrilled to put together this Yukon road trip itinerary for the Golden Circle Route.

Check out our video below all about our road trip around the Yukon!

Day 1 – Whitehorse, Yukon

Whitehorse, the capital of the territory, is the perfect place to start your Yukon road trip on day 1!

The Erik Nielson Whitehorse International Airport is decently connected with a few major cities in Canada, including Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton, meaning that travelling to the Yukon is getting easier if you aren’t planning on driving from your home.

Once you land in Whitehorse you can pick up your rental car from the airport. We used Driving Force , which is the most popular rental company in town.

Depending on what time you land, we recommend spending the night in town so that you can leave bright and early the next morning.

Things to Do in Whitehorse

For a town with less than 30,000 residents, Whitehorse is surprisingly buzzing, and you’ll easily fill a day by hanging out in town (and much longer if you head out into the wilderness on Whitehorse’s doorstep).

No trip to Whitehorse is complete without paying a visit to the SS Klondike , the large steamboat resting on land next to the Yukon River in town.

When the Klondike Gold Rush kicked off in the late 19th century, it brought with it immeasurable wealth for many citizens, and as such a luxury travel industry emerged.

The SS Klondike was part of that – a decadent steamboat experience that would sail the Yukon River, giving rich prospectors and their families a marvellous holiday.

As time went on though the demand for such travel died down, and so today this iconic boat has been turned into a museum.

Town and Mountain Hotel is one of the top rated places to stay in Whitehorse.

Set in a rustic, historic building right in the center of town, it has a homey feel and an on-site pub.

This hotel isn’t anything luxurious, but it’s affordable and cozy and gets the job done.

It’s also only 7km from the airport, so once you arrive you can quickly drop off your car and bags here so you can explore the town during your 1 day in Whitehorse.

Day 2 – Whitehorse to Haines Junction (154km)

After an early breakfast, it’s time to load up the car and hit the road on Day 2. The drive to Haines Junction can be done in two hours, but if you have nice weather it’s going to take you a lot longer!

You’ll be taking the famous Alaska Highway, a highlight of any Yukon road trip, all the way to Haines Junction.

Once you get out of the city you’ll start to enter the mountains of the remarkable Yukon Ranges, with majestic snow-capped peaks and dense boreal forests.

But it’s not just the mountain scenery you have to enjoy – It doesn’t take long out of Whitehorse to come across your first two main attractions along the way.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to help you travel to Canada .

Turn right at the Klondike Highway, and shortly afterwards there’ll be signs and a turn-off to visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve and the Takhini Hot Springs

The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is a 700-acre property that has been segregated into different habitats to highlight some of the territory’s iconic animals.

Here you’ll see moose, elk, wood bison, arctic foxes, woodland caribou and a range of other wildlife that call the Yukon home.

While there’s always a chance you could see some of these animals out in the wild along the way, if you want the best possibility to catch a glimpse of them and learn more about each species, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve is the place to do it.

A bit further along the way is the Takhini Hot Springs, and if you love soaking in a hot pool then you’ll be in your element here.

These natural hot springs are funnelled into man-made pools and housed in a family-friendly complex. The water ranges between 36 to 42 degrees, and is filled with minerals.

Once you’ve had your soak, it’s time to return to the Alaska Highway and continue heading towards Haines Junction.

The further west you get, the grander the mountain range becomes, and on a clear day you’ll be rewarded with views over large lakes, turbulent rivers and glaciated valleys.

Take as many stops are you like as you go, as the drive really is about the views rather than activities.

It will probably be mid-afternoon by the time you arrive in Haines Junction, and at this point you can either head straight to your accommodation and relax for the afternoon, or head out on a drive to check out some of the nearby lakes.

It was pretty misty and wet when we arrived, so we decided to spend the afternoon driving up the Alaska Highway and check out the different scenery as we went.

We recommend spending at the very least two nights in Haines Junction, with one day checking out a few of the things to do below.

Things to Do in Haines Junction

The more time you have in Haines Junction the better, as you could very easily spend up to a week here hiking, fishing, riding mountain bikes and driving around.

In fact, even though this itinerary just has you there for one full day between day 2 and day 3, we recommend staying at least three days.

With its location right on the edge of the Kluane National Park there are plenty of outdoor activities to make the most of, and here are just a couple of the things to doin Haines Junction that we did on our Golden Circle Route.

Kluane Glacier Air Tours operates daily flightseeing tours over the national park (weather permitting), and after taking part in a 75-minute flight, it proved to be one of the most memorable experiences of our entire time in the Yukon!

The Kluane National Park is home to the largest non-polar icefield in the world, and the best way to view it is from the air.

Taking off from the Haines Junction Airport your flightseeing tour will take you over the twisting rivers of Kluane National Park before heading deep into the mountains, and eventually to the icefield.

Glaciers appear in every direction, and jagged peaks pierce the sky. Seeing the expanse of Kluane National Park from this angle is a truly phenomenal experience, and something that will stay with you for years to come.

Check out our detailed post about our Kluane flightseeing tour.

No trip to the Yukon is complete without learning all about the fascinating First Nations culture and history.

The indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest have been a part of the region for thousands of years, and thankfully up in this territory their roles and culture have been fully embraced.

The Da Ku Cultural Centre in Haines Junction is a tribute to their story, and the exhibitions are incredibly well done.

You’ll find artefacts, beautiful pieces of art, interactive exhibits and a wealth of information, allowing you to get a better understanding of the First Nations people of the area.

It’s completely free to visit, and is located right next to the Haines Junction Visitors Centre.

When we swung by the Haines Junction Visitors Centre and asked the park ranger what her favourite hike was in the area, she responded without hesitation that it was the Auriol Trail.

The trailhead to this hike is just 7km south of Haines Junction, off the side of the highway, so in terms of accessibility, it’s pretty perfect.

The 15km loop is fairly easy, with very little elevation gain, but the views you are treated to are awe-inspiring.

Once you pass through the forest you hit a large plain, with the peaks of the national park rising up in the distance. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Haines Junction!

The hike only takes a few hours, so it’s something you can fit in after taking the flightseeing tour. Make sure you stop by the visitor’s centre for up-to-date information on the trail conditions and bring bear spray.

Where to Stay in Haines Junction Yukon

The accommodation options in Haines Junction Yukon are quite limited, and for the most part they are fairly standard abodes, but there’s one place just outside of town that is well worth stopping off at for a few nights!

10 minutes out of town along the Alaskan Highway, the Mount Logan Lodge is redefining what comfort and hospitality is in the Yukon.

The traditional log cabin lodge is set in a picturesque spot, with pine trees surrounding the property and spectacular mountains forming the backdrop.

They have a number of various accommodation options available, including a yurt (yep, a real yurt!) , a bus converted into a guesthouse and a number of bedrooms in the main lodge.

If you want something elegant and spacious or are travelling as a small family, go for the suite upstairs. It’s huge with lots of sitting areas and plenty of windows and a balcony giving magnificent, elevated views over the region.

The owners, Roxanne and David, are amazing people as well, and offer what might just be the best service in Haines Junction Yukon.

Breakfast is included every morning, and if you’d like you can join them for a home-cooked meal every night. Roxanne is a phenomenal chef, often using ingredients she’s grown herself on the property, so you’re guaranteed to have a meal to remember!

While they are a bit more expensive than other places in town, you can’t compare the level of quality and service that Mount Logan Lodge gives.

Book direct with Mount Logan Lodge for the best prices, and tell Roxy and Dave we said hi!

Day 4 – Haines Junction to Haines, Alaska (238km)

Once you’ve explored the best that Haines Junction and the Kluane National Park has to offer, it’s time to continue your Yukon road trip!

The next part of the Golden Circle Route will take you briefly through British Columbia and across the border to the United States, and to the pretty seaside town of Haines.

As to be expected on pretty much every mile of this journey, the scenery is outstanding, so you should leave early and give yourself plenty of time on day 4 to stop off along the way and make the most of the landscape.

Once you get out of Haines Junction your first stop will most likely be Kathleen Lake. The viewpoint from the road is lovely, and you’ll get an amazing perspective of just how large this lake is.

More lakes will keep appearing, and the further you drive you’ll start to notice the landscape change as you slowly lower in altitude.

You’re bound to be amazed at how lush the terrain is as you approach the international border crossing into the United States.

Entering the country is fairly straightforward. You drive past the Canadian border patrol and continue onto the US office. You stop your car at the gate and chat to the customs and immigration officer.

As Australians, we were asked to park the car and come into the building for final processing.

The guys were friendly, and it was just a matter of formalities to be let into the US.

Continuing on your drive, you soon join the Chilkat River, which is absolutely stunning and home to a huge number of bald eagles.

Be sure to pull over at all the parking lots on the side of the road to jump out, check out the views, and see if you can spot these majestic creatures.

You twist and weave between deep valleys, with the river widening on your right, until you head into the beautiful town of Haines, Alaska.

It should be around lunchtime now, so stop into a cafe or restaurant for a meal (we had some sandwiches at the Rusty Compass Cafe, which were lovely), then get out exploring!

Things to Do in Haines

Haines is a small town, but there are quite a few things you can do, depending on how much time you want to spend here and your interests.

We’re going to level with you…This was the number one thing we wanted to do in Haines!

A short drive from town is the Chilkoot River, flowing out of Chilkoot Lake and spilling into the Chilkoot Inlet. While the beauty of this region should be enough to bring you here anyway, there’s something else that makes this spot truly incredible.

During the autumn months the river fills with spawning salmon, and this attracts a large population of grizzly bears who come to feed on the abundance of fresh food.

As you drive along the road to the lake, keep an eye out on the river to your right, and you might get lucky and spot a hungry bear (or 12!) fishing for salmon.

You can park your car and walk right to the edge of the river to admire these powerful creatures feeding, but please keep in mind that these are EXTREMELY dangerous wild animals.

Do not get too close to the bears, do not get anywhere near a bear cub, and do not do anything to draw attention to yourself.

Stay close to your car at all times, so if a bear gets spooked or approaches, you can quickly retreat to your vehicle.

With those precautions in place, this is a thrilling place to see grizzlies up close in the wild. The best time to see them is early in the morning or at dusk.

Have a read of our travel photography tips to help you capture some beautiful pictures from your holiday.

The peninsula that juts out between the Chilkoot Inlet and Chilkat Inlet is a spectacular drive, and you’ll be given lovely views of the mountains on both sides of Haines.

You can head out to Mud Bay and go for a short hike, or simply drive to the end of the road and admire the beauty of the spectacular inlet.

If you give yourself a full day in Haines then you should definitely look at booking a sea kayaking tour.

These trips last from 4 to 7 hours and let you get right into some epic little coves. If you’re really lucky you might even get the chance to spot some of Alaska’s big wildlife, such as bald eagles, grizzly bears and maybe even whales.

Haines’s remote location and the frequency of cruise ship visitors hitting town in the summer make it an expensive town, so trying to stay here on a budget will either come down to parking up at the campground or finding a spot to park your RV.

If you don’t have your own gear to set up camp, you’ll have to opt for one of the basic guesthouses in town . Note that a lot of these are only open in the summertime.

Day 5 – Haines to Skagway, Alaska (The Ferry)

Have a bit of a lie-in and leisurely breakfast, because the morning is more or less yours to enjoy. But if you are an early riser, we recommend heading back to Chilkoot River to see the grizzlies again!

Otherwise you can spend the morning walking around town, checking out some First Nations art and exploring the waterside.

Once the afternoon comes around it’s time to continue the Golden Circle Route, and the best way to do that is to take the car ferry from Haines to Skagway.

This particular trip is quite short (lasting only an hour), but has to-be-expected magnificent views as the boat navigates through the inlets towards the popular cruise ship destination.

Most of the ferries leave around lunchtime, which means you’ll get to Skagway, Alaska with the afternoon to hang out and learn more about the Klondike Gold Rush history that this region is famous for!

Tip – Make sure you book the ferry ride well ahead of time, as there’s only one a day that can take vehicles.

Haines Skagway Ferry Golden Circle Route

Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

Skagway is a beautiful small town, and if you’re interested in learning more about the Klondike Gold Rush , then you’re in the right place.

When gold was discovered at Bonanza Creek near Dawson City in 1896, thousands of prospectors made their way up from the US and southern Canada with the hopes of striking it rich.

The most direct route was through the Inside Passage, finishing the boat journey in Skagway before continuing overland into the Yukon.

As such Skagway become an enormous transport hub for people both coming and going, from the gold-rich creeks further north.

Today the town feels like it’s still stuck back in time in the ‘golden’ era, with timber buildings and old saloons to grab a drink at. If you’re into the Klondike Gold Rush, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Skagway.

By far the number one attraction in Skagway is the White Pass and Yukon Route train ride up the Chilkoot Pass.

When gold rush prospectors flooded into Skagway they were confronted by harsh mountains that blocked their journey further north.

They had two options to push deeper into the Yukon – Either take the steep and challenging Chilkoot Trail to the summit of the pass, or take the longer White Pass Route.

Both trails were fraught with danger, and so in 1897 George Brackett built a toll-road through the mountains using his own money. The toll gate was largely ignored by the prospectors, and he fell into financial despair.

In 1898 two railroad investors, Sir Thomas Tancrede and Michael J. Heney, travelled to Skagway and developed the idea to build a railway through the White Pass.

They leased Brackett’s failed road off of him for $110’000, set to work on the arduous and expensive construction of the rail, and by the beginning of 1899 the passenger train journey to the summit of Chilkoot Pass was completed, opening the flood gates to the north.

Fast forward to today and the train still makes its once perilous 20-mile journey from Skagway to the top of the pass, but this time transporting tourists rather than prospectors and cargo.

It’s a spectacular train ride, offering unrivalled views of the valleys and mountains above the town. You travel in an old-fashion coach with large windows so none of the scenery is missed.

The whole journey takes just under 3 hours, and is the number one thing to do in Skagway!

Make sure you book this ahead of time though, because if you happen to be in Skagway on a day that a cruise ship is in, you might have a hard time getting a spot.

With so much Klondike Gold Rush history in the area, one of the best things you can do is simply wander around the streets and learn as much as you can.

The best place to this is at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center, but once you’ve finished stocking up on information there, just check out the other cool spots in Skagway.

Skagway has a number of accommodation options, but they are quite few and far between to be honest, just like Haines across the water.

If you’re not in your own RV then you might want to look at the places on Booking.com to make sure you get a place to stay.

Day 6 – Skagway to Carcross, Yukon (105km)

It’s time to keep moving on the Golden Circle Route and your Yukon road trip and actually return back to Canada!

Once you hit the road from Skagway on day 6 you start climbing up through the mountain range, in much the same way the train did the previous day, until you hit the Canadian border crossing.

Hopefully another quick and painless process, and then you’ll be on your way into some of the most unique scenery of the entire trip!

After days of dense forests and snow-capped peaks, it now appears as though you’ve driven into another planet.

The lunar landscape between the US/Canadian border and Carcross is a sight to behold, with bare, layered rocks stretching out to dirt-covered mountains.

Glistening blue lakes shimmer brightly in the sunlight, nestled amongst the rugged terrain. Make sure your camera batteries are charged because you’ll be stopping to take a lot of photos.

Along the way is another big attraction you can stop off at – the Yukon Suspension Bridge.

Rising 20m above the rapids of the Tutshi River, you can walk across this swaying 60m long suspension bridge, and if you have a slight fear of heights it’s bound to get your heart racing.

At CAD$18 (plus tax) per person though, it’s a pretty expensive excursion for what it is.

And considering it’ll only take up a few minutes of your time if you don’t visit the museum, we recommend saving your money and skipping it, unless you have a thing for suspension bridges.

You’ll eventually break through the rugged mountains and into the Southern Lakes region, which brings on a whole new beauty in itself.

Stop by in Carcross to check out the First Nations art (more on that below), and then head to your accommodation for the night in Tagish.

Things to Do in Carcross

Carcross is actually one of the oldest towns in the Yukon, and despite its tiny size, you could easily spend an hour or two walking around the village.

With its strong First Nations history, one of the best things to do in Carcross is simply head downtown and wander around the Carcross Commons.

This cute collection of souvenir stores and cafes surrounding a purpose-built square are adorned with marvellous First Nations art, which you can’t help but be amazed by.

Besides the large paintings on the walls, the main focal point in the Carcross Commons is the totem poles.

These intricately-carved wonders have been expertly created by some of the region’s best artists, and each one has a story to tell.

Make sure you read all the plaques about the First Nations history!

Carcross Commons First Nations Art Yukon Road Trip

Just south of Carcross on the South Klondike Highway lies Montana Mountain, a stratavolcano with unique geological formations and incredible views.

Hiking the Montana Mountain trail is one of the best things to do in the area for those who love a challenging, outdoor adventure.

The trail is 15km total, but it’s not too difficult. Most people complete the entire hike in 5-6 hours.

Majestic views of the surrounding mountains follow you the entire hike. Caribou also roam the area, so you may be lucky enough to see some! Just be sure to keep your distance if you do see any wildlife.

Mountain biking is also a popular activity on Montana Mountain. Check out Montana Mountain Bike Park for some of the Yukon’s best mountain biking trails.

Often referred to as the ‘world’s smallest desert’, the Carcross Desert is one of the more unique things you’ll see on this Yukon road trip.

If you took away the mountains and pine trees in the distance, and instead focused on the rolling dunes and sand plains that make up the 1 square mile block, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the Sahara or the Gobi.

The truth is though that it isn’t actually a desert, it’s just a series of dunes. Don’t let that stop you from stopping off and wandering around the place though.

The town of Carcross itself is quite limited with its accommodations, so instead head out of town and stay at the fabulous Southern Lakes Resort.

This amazing collection of log cabins is set on Tagish Lake, about 30 minutes from Carcross, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find another place that quite compares to it on Yukon’s Golden Circle Route.

The resort itself has a huge lodge high on a hill and overlooking the lake, so you can kick back at the end of the day with a craft beer in hand and enjoy amazing views.

If you’re a foodie then you’re in for a real treat too, as Bruno, the head chef, serves up some absolutely incredible meals every night!

He focuses on adding a unique flair to traditional dishes, and often with locally-sourced ingredients. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth stopping by for a meal!

The accommodation is also phenomenal. Large, spacious log cabins with vistas over the lake ensure you’ll feel like you’re in a natural wonderland.

The beds are comfortable, and you can monitor the temperature with an electric thermostat, so you’ll never get to hot or too cold, despite the weather outside.

If you love being active as well it’s a great spot to hang out, as you can rent kayaks and canoes to paddle off from their private dock and explore the glorious Tagish Lake.

One of the real highlights of Southern Lakes Resort is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis. We were very lucky and saw the Northern Lights on both nights we were there, and this was in September when they’re not actually at their peak!

If you’re looking for an excellent place to stay in Carcross during your Yukon road trip, we recommend driving a little bit further to Tagish and hanging out at Southern Lakes Resort.

Get in touch with them on their website to book a log cabin.

The final leg from Carcross to Whitehorse on day 7 will mark the end of your short Yukon road trip along the Golden Circle Route, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see along the way!

You can hit the road from Tagish and head towards Jake’s Corner, then drive up the Alaska Highway towards Whitehorse. But we recommend heading back the way you came and taking the south Klondike Highway to see another awesome spot.

Not far past Carcross, you’ll drive right between two of the most beautiful lakes you’ll ever see – Emerald Lake and Spirit Lake.

There’s a large carpark to the side of the highway so you can pull over and marvel at these turquoise gems in the shadows of large mountains.

We have to admit that these two lakes were our favourites on the entire road trip!

Once you connect back up with the Alaska Highway it’s a pretty straight forward drive all the way into Whitehorse, so you’ll probably make it back in time to have lunch and enjoy a well-earned beer.

After spending 7 days driving the world-famous Golden Circle Route, we can safely say that it was the perfect way to explore the territory on our first ever Yukon road trip.

It provided a fascinating diversity in not just the mountainous terrain that this part of Canada is famous for, but also gave the opportunity to dive into the history of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Add it to your bucket list!

The tourist season in the Yukon is usually limited to summer, unless you’re the kind of person that loves cold weather, deep snow and winter activities like skiing, dog sledding and snowshoeing.

The typical time to drive around the Yukon is from April to November , with the peak season being June, July and August.

That being said though, we believe that there really is only one perfect time to drive around the Yukon. Autumn.

In September and October the trees start to change colour and are filled with deep violets, oranges, reds and yellows, giving the already spectacular scenery a life of its own.

You just cannot beat Canada in the Fall, so that’s why we recommend that if you’re planning your epic Yukon road trip, especially around the Golden Circle Route, that you explore the region in September and October.

Tips for a Yukon Road Trip

There are a few tips we want to share with you to help you get the most out of your Golden Circle Yukon road trip.

The roads along the Golden Circle Route are pretty good, but there are plenty of times that you’ll want to veer off the main highway and check out some of the harder-to-reach places.

For this we recommend renting at the very least an SUV, and if you can afford it getting a large truck.

It’s also much safer in case you have a collision with an animal, which in this part of Canada is entirely possible.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

You can go quite a long way between fuel stations on the Golden Circle Route. Do yourself a favour and fill up whenever you see your fuel tank getting close to half and you come across a station.

Even though the Yukon is a fairly remote place and doesn’t receive a lot of visitors, outside of Whitehorse there just isn’t a huge number of accommodation options.

If you have your own RV or camping gear, then you don’t have to worry. But if you are travelling around like we were, with a vehicle and relying on guesthouses, you should book things ahead of time.

This is so you don’t show up in a town like Haines Junction and find all the good places (ie Mount Logan Lodge) are gone, leaving you with a run-down highway motel.

The tours can also book out a few days in advance, so if you know you’re going to be somewhere give the operators a call and see if you should make a reservation.

Even though we drove to Haines Junction first and did the loop counter-clockwise, the truth is you can drive this trip in either direction and you’ll still have an amazing time.

You’ll be crossing the border into the US, so don’t leave your passport behind!

Don’t let the relatively short distances on the Golden Circle Route fool you. There’s a good chance that any one leg could take you all day with all the stops you’ll be making as you go.

Make sure you start your days early, and have some snacks with you to keep you energised on the road.

Outside of the big towns don’t expect to get much phone signal on the Golden Circle Route. That means you’ll have to post your Instagram pics that night!

Don’t let that scare you though in terms of safety. If you break down you’ll probably only have to wait 10-15 minutes max before an overlander or friendly local drives by.

Our Yukon road trip was made possible thanks to our partnership with Destination Canada and Travel Yukon. All thoughts, opinions, and thousands of photos taken of grizzly bears eating salmon are, as always, our own.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Vancouver to Whitehorse via Alaska Highway

Vancouver to Whitehorse via the world-famous Alaska Highway is a 12-15 days road trip that takes you through history and untamed wilderness of BC’s north.

Note : This post is for travellers that have limited time and cannot travel for a long time on an RV. We are working professionals and have access to limited vacation days. We have to take advantage of every vacation day. So, we planned to drive to Whitehorse via Alaska Highway, and car camped throughout the trip of two weeks .

We were able to comfortably make this trip in two weeks while stopping at many spectacular viewpoints, historic sites, museums, towns, wildlife viewing, and parks . We broke down our journey so that we can drive between destinations 6-8 hours apart each day. However, we would drive slow and make frequent stops to enjoy the trip and complete those destinations in a longer time. We started our journey in the first week of August when the weather was perfect, and the daylight was still long in the north.

In only eight months , the construction of the 1600 mile Alaska Highway was completed (1942-43). It linked the community of Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Fairbanks, Alaska.

The highway project was deemed a military necessity to transport supplies and equipment from the USA to Alaska. The construction began on March 8, 1942. More than 11,000 soldiers and 16,000 civilians worked through harsh conditions while battling fatigue and hypothermia. Each day workers would complete eight miles of the road. The terrain was rugged and impassible as it passes through dense forest, permafrost, muskeg, and five mountain ranges. The surveying was another challenge, so it required the help of local first nation members, trappers, and bush pilots.

Originally the highway was named Alaska-Canadian Highway , which was shortened to Alcan Highway . Presently, it is the only land route to Alaska and called the Alaska Highway .

“Winding in and winding out, leaves my mind in serious doubt, as to whether the lout who built this route, was going to hell or coming out.” A poem by Retired Sgt Troy Hise, who was a worker on the Alaska Highway construction project.

How to get there

Sample of the trip plan (two weeks).

The table below is just a sample to get you started, and you should customize it based on your preference and time available for the road trip.

The map below is a breakdown of towns that you can stay to even your travel time between destinations.

Highlights of the Road Trip

Part 1: vancouver to dawson creek.

The drive from Vancouver to Dawson Creek will take you through Fraser Canyon, and beautiful landscape of rolling ranch-lands. You will have an opportunity to stop and enjoy interesting towns with many antique shops. If you can spare some time for a short side trip, visit Barkerville Historic Town (1 hour east of Quesnel) – Read our other post.

Likewise, we highly recommend that you should stop in Chetwynd to enjoy amazing chainsaw carving sculptures.

Part 2: Dawson Creek (Mile 0) to Stone Mountain Provincial Park

Mile 0 in Dawson Creek is the start of your Alaska Highway adventure. Don’t forget to take a photo with the Mile 0 Sign for your memories. The first few hours of your drive on Alaska Highway between Fort St John and Fort Nelson is an average drive through some flat area. There will be a lot of bugs on this stretch of road.

We reached Fort Nelson in the afternoon and stopped for lunch. After lunch, we restocked our supplies, including beers and continued towards our next stop Stone Mountain.

The real joy of driving on Alaska Highway was felt once we went past Fort Nelson. The roads became very interesting, surrounded by serene nature, and lots of viewpoints. After Fort Nelson, the traffic on the highway is drastically reduced. You will drive over the highest elevation pass on Alaska Highway, Summit Pass (elevation 4,250 feet/ 1,295 m).

Upon arrival in Stone Mountain Provincial Park, we were amazed by the beauty of the campground and the lake. . It is a self serve campground with a camping fee of $20 per night. We highly recommend camping here.

Summit Lake Campground was one of the most spectacular campgrounds of our trip.

Part 3: Stone Mountain Provincial Park to Liard River Hot Springs

Stone Mountain Provincial Park offers breathtaking views and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities. Once you are back on the Alaska Highway, you will drive along McDonald Creek and Toad River through the spectacular landscape. There are many viewpoints on this stretch of Alaska Highway.

Your next stop will be Muncho Lake Provincial Park, which offers great trails and water recreation activities. There is a great campground and day-use area to relax and refresh.

The next stop is a must-see Liard River Hot Springs. These surreal hot springs are the second largest in Canada and offer a relaxing experience in a natural setting of the beautiful lush boreal spruce forest.

Read my other post for more information about Liard River Hot Springs . To stay in the campground, make a reservation between May and September. Reservation takes place through the Discover Camping website .

Note : This road trip is through remote and isolated places. Make sure to pack food, water, clothing, and extra supplies . There are no fancy restaurants or drive-throughs for the most part. Always try to keep your gas tank up to mark or carry extra fuel. In some areas, the gas stations are apart from each other.

Part 4: Liard River to Watson Lake

The drive between Liard River Hot Springs and Watson Lake has an abundance of wildlife. You can easily spot moose, bears, and herd of Bisons along the highway. Likewise, this stretch of road offers some spectacular views of the Liard River.

At Historical Mile 627, there is an official BC-Yukon border . After a short drive from the BC-Yukon border, you will arrive at Watson Lake.

Part 5: Watson Lake to Teslin

Watson Lake is ‘gateway to the Yukon’ . It is the first Yukon community on Alaska Highway. We highly recommend that you should visit the Sign Post Forest , a unique attraction that has more than 90,000 signs installed by visitors from all around the world. Read our other blog post to know more about Watson Lake .

After visiting Watson Lake, continue on the Alaska Highway. After Swift River, you will enter British Columbia for about 65 km before entering Yukon again. There are many interesting stops along the highway.

From Watson Lake, you have to drive for about 3 hours to reach Teslin (260 km). Teslin is located at 1244 km (804 Mile) of the Alaska Highway.

As you enter Teslin, you will cross the last original steel bridge remaining on the southern Yukon stretch of the Alaska Highway.

Part 6: Teslin to Whitehorse

In addition to getting your gas and supplies, you can visit two interesting places in Teslin, George Johnston Museum and the Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre. Read my other post for complete details about Teslin .

Now you are at the last stretch of your trip to Whitehorse. The city of Whitehorse is only 178 km from Teslin.

Whitehorse is a bustling community located along the Yukon River. It offers a great blend of wilderness, magnificent landscape, and history. Two major highways (the Alaska and Klondike) connect Whitehorse, which makes it a hub for transportation and a popular tourist destination. Read our post to know more details about Whitehorse .

Useful Links

Super Natural British Columbia – Alaska Highway

For Mile to Mile information of the Alaska Highway visit The Mile Post .

Thanks for visiting our blog. Please leave a comment if you find our post helpful, or if you have any questions or suggestions for us .

I always spent my half an hour to read this webpage’s articles everyday along with a cup of coffee.

Thank you so much sharing that with us. This really made our day so special. We are glad you enjoy reading our blogposts with your cup of coffee. Thank you for inspiring us 🙂

Inderjit Grewal

Great car camping 🏕 Lovely locations Thanks to the explorers then and now

Car camping was definitely the highlight of our trip. Alaska Highway has been one of the finest road trips for us.

Thanks for visiting- G&H

The ultimate one-way road trip to Whitehorse, Yukon

North to Whitehorse. The epic road trip. Driving the entirety of BC, from Squamish to Whitehorse is no small undertaking. We are talking nearly 2,300 km (1,429 mi). However, it really is worth it as this road trip takes you through some of the most breathtaking and remote areas of British Columbia and the famous Yukon Territory. The rewards from driving this unmatchable route are huge. You get to see an incredible nature scenery, hotspots from the Gold Rush history, historic homesteads and will probably enjoy lots of wildlife sightings. (Grizzlies, moose, bison to name a few!)

Some interesting sections along the way to Whitehorse

Coast Mountains and S outhern Cariboo mountains Sea to Sky highway – This awe-inspiring highway, officially known as BC Highway 99, is an incredible coastal route from Vancouver all the way up to Whistler.

Along the road, you drive through the Howe Sound inlet, pass numerous islands, mountains, provincial parks, and many points of interest. Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton are adventure towns you definitely want to stop, even if it’s only for a short leg break. The views along the highway are just astonishing. After driving through Pemberton on Highway 99, you are led through the breathtaking mountain ranges of the Interior Plateau. On Highway 99 you will drive over Lillooet Lake, check off the Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Duffey Lake Provincial Park, the community of Lillooet, Marble Canyon Provincial Park, and much more. They don’t call this province “Beautiful British Columbia” for nothing.

After highway 99 you will remain on Highway 97 until Prince George. The Cariboo Highway (Hwy 97) runs north from Cache Creek to

Prince George across the lake-studded Fraser Plateau, Green Lake, and Bowron Lake Provincial Parks, and the historic Gold Rush Trail from Lillooet (Mile 0) to Barkerville. The highway takes you through a surprising region of rolling hills and prairies, thick forests, granite-walled canyons, and impressive river valleys, where ranching, forestry, logging and mining are the mainstays of the local economy.

Northern BC

Highway 16 – Northwest BC is one massive playground for outdoor enthusiasts and you don’t have to venture far from the beaten path to find remote wilderness. Highway 16, northern BC’s main artery ties many communities together, it winds through towering forests, majestic mountain ranges, along rushing rivers, and endless chains of pristine lakes. So don’t forget to stop and take in the scenery! One of our favourite stops is Smithers and Hudson Bay Mountain trails for some hiking trails.

The Cassiar Highway Officially named Stewart Cassiar Highway (Highway 37).

This highway runs through a hilly and mountainous, mostly wooded wilderness region where services are found in sparsely populated communities that are far from each other. It is the most isolated, but also the most beautiful part of BC if you ask us.

On your way to the Yukon you will drive the highway in its 725km entirety, passing through three well-maintained provincial parks, many beautiful lakes and a handful of small communities. There’s usually plenty of wildlife to see on the side of the road too, such as bears and deer, and if you’re lucky, a moose.

Alaska Highway (Yukon highway 1) – Watson Lake, YT to Whitehorse is a fairly straight run of approximately 454 kms on the Alaska Highway (or Highway 1). The famous Watson Lake Sign Post Forest was started by Carl Lindley, a U.S. Army soldier working on the construction of the Alaska Highway in 1942. Travelers are still adding license plates to the collection.

Stop at the Rancheria River valley for a short boardwalk trail to the waterfalls. The Teslin Tlingit Heritage Cultural Centre is home to amazing carvings, beadwork and other local art. Just before Whitehorse, take Miles Canyon Road for a scenic drive past the float planes on picturesque Schwatka Lake.

Explore Whitehorse – You made it to Whitehorse!! Surrounded by beautiful wilderness, the Yukon’s capital is a small city with a big wild backyard. Whitehorse played a major role in the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush as a supply center for prospectors. Today, it is the Capital of the Yukon Territory and the largest city in the Yukon. For your information, the population of Whitehorse is 30,000 while the entire Yukon province inhabits 45,000 people! Some things to do in and around Whitehorse:

· Yukon Wildlife Preserve (a great place to enjoy a long walk surrounded by Yukon wildlife.) · MacBride Museum (Gold Rush history) · SS Klondike (historic gold rush riverboat) And of course, countless trails to hike in the area!

We help you creating a free road trip plan to explore BC and a part of Yukon efficiently while allowing time for exploring and sightseeing.

So, book your trip and let us do the planning – this is going to be the journey of a lifetime!

Keep in mind that the one-way Squamish – Whitehorse trips can only take place in the months of May, June and September. In addition to the Jeep rental (minimum 11 days), a one-way rental fee of $899 will be added to your reservation.

Free road trip plan

At Maple Overland, we are happy to help you create your ideal adventure travel itinerary. After booking, you will receive a small questionnaire which tells us a bit about your travel preferences, what your outdoor experience is, who you are traveling with, and which wishes you have for your trip. This way we can help you explore British Columbia more efficiently. After all, 1 perfect travel route that fits everyone doesn’t exist.

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Vancouver to Whitehorse Via the Inside Passage

Route - 2825 km / 1755 mi

Vancouver to Nanaimo

Nanaimo to Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach to Campbell River

Campbell River to Telegraph Cove

Telegraph Cove

Telegraph Cove to Port Hardy

Port Hardy to Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert to Meziadin Junction

Meziadin Junction to Hyder, Alaska - Return

Meziadin Junction to Dease Lake

Dease Lake to Teslin Lake

Teslin Lake to Skagway

Skagway to Haines (by ferry)

Haines to Haines Junction

Haines Junction to Whitehorse

Trip details, day 1: vancouver to nanaimo.

Vancouver Island Whale Watching
Mountainaire Campground
Rondalyn Resort – Parkbridge

Day 2: Nanaimo to Qualicum Beach

Cedar Grove RV Park
SkyDive Vancouver Island
Paradise Seaside Resort RV Park
Whiskey Creek Campground
Qualicum Bay Resort
Horne Lake Caverns
Paradise RV Park
Paradise Fun Park
Ocean EcoVentures - Parksville

Day 3: Qualicum Beach to Campbell River

Salmon Point Resort
Aboriginal Journeys
49 North Helicopters
Campbell River Whale Watching
Wildcoast Adventures
Flower Beds Farm
The Lost Faucet Sauna House
Discovery Harbour Marina - RV Parking

Day 4: Campbell River to Telegraph Cove

Brown's Bay Resort
Discovery West Adventures
Farewell Harbour Lodge
Telegraph Cove Resort
At the Waters Edge Adventures
Seasmoke Whale Watching
Roxy’s Diner Food Truck
Alder Bay RV Park & Marina
Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures
Sea Wolf Adventures

Days 5 to 6: Telegraph Cove

Sea Wolf Adventures

Day 7: Telegraph Cove to Port Hardy

Port Hardy RV Resort
Cove Adventure Tours
Coastal Rainforest Safaris

Day 8: Port Hardy to Prince Rupert

Day 9: prince rupert, day 10: prince rupert to meziadin junction, day 11: meziadin junction to hyder, alaska - return, day 12: meziadin junction to dease lake.

Waters Edge

Day 13: Dease Lake to Teslin Lake

Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre

Day 14: Teslin Lake to Skagway

Mountain Flying Service
Alaska Fjordlines Inc.

Day 15: Skagway

Day 16: skagway to haines (by ferry).

Haines Hitch-up RV Park
Twawwassen RV Resort

Day 17: Haines to Haines Junction

Kluane Glacier Air Tours
Otter Falls Cuttoff RV Park
Kathleen Lake Campground
Dezadeash Lake Campground
Congdon Creek Campground
Fox Lake Campground

Days 18 to 19: Haines Junction to Whitehorse

EPIC NORTH Tour Experiences
Days Inn Whitehorse
Real Canadian Superstore
Arctic Range Adventure
Up North Adventures
Westmark Whitehorse
Edgewater Hotel
Yukon Adventure Centre
Best Western Gold Rush
Hi Country RV Park
Pioneer RV Park
Tatshenshini Rafting
Sani Dump Station
Quality Inn & Suites Whitehorse
Sky High Wilderness Ranch
Whitehorse Who What Where Tours
Yukon Tours by Klondike Travel
Ruby Range Adventure
Yukon Brewing
Pioneer RV Park

Other Itineraries in Alberta, British Columbia, and Yukon

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Road trip: vancouver to whitehorse in 46 hours: day 2.

Quesnel to Whitehorse, via the Stewart-Cassiar Highway

Having reached Quesnel at a reasonable hour Friday evening, I had a good night’s sleep and was away from the Gold Pan Motel by 4:30 am. I planned on a very long day, with Dease Lake the hoped-for destination.

It was inky black and raining when I left Quesnel, but at least traffic was very light. I was thinking for a while about how oncoming headlights completely blind you, and the only way to stay on the road is by keeping your eyes on the right-hand painted line. Around 5:30 am, I found out the hard way just how true that is. For about 1 second, I saw a deer that had just walked across the road and had reached the right-hand side. I never did really see the one that tore the left-hand mirror off the car – just a split-second of something tan-coloured. By the time I got stopped, there was no deer on the road, but it certainly could have been badly injured. In all my years driving these roads commercially, that was the first large animal I’d ever hit – very distressing.

Heading west on Highway 16, the Yellowhead. In a good year, the Fall colours along this highway are stunning, but I’d heard that this wasn’t a very good year – more browns than golds.

I stopped in at the Smithers airport to get some photos of a hangar that was built in 1942 and that I expect won’t be standing for too many more years.

The view of Hudson Bay Mountain from the airport. In the large valley to the right in the photo is the Twin Falls Recreation Site, and I decided to go for another look – the last time I was there was in 1985 during a trip to the Yukon and beyond with my little Cessna.

The beautiful forest along the steep and narrow road up to the Twin Falls Recreation Site.

A map of the Twin Falls Recreation Site, with an easy trail to the base of the eastern waterfall, and a much tougher one to the glacial cirque that feeds them both.

The long, tough trail is to the left, the easy one that I took is to the right.

The eastern waterfall, with a memorial to Eric Paul Buss, who was killed here in an avalanche on November 27, 1991.

The western waterfall.

The broad view of both falls. Have a look at Google Maps to get a better idea of what’s above that view.

Along Highway 16, I saw a few signs opposing the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines Project, but none more striking than this one at Moricetown Canyon. This is a very controversial proposal to construct twin pipelines 1,170 km in length, from Bruderheim, Alberta, to Kitimat, BC.

Sign opposing the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines Project

Moricetown Canyon on the Bulkley River, seen from the bridge on the Telkwa High Road.

The highway between Smithers and Hazelton in particular offers many photo ops, most of which I didn’t stop for.

I stopped for lunch and a top-up of fuel at the junction of Highway 16 and the Stewart-Cassiar, and by 2:50 pm had reached Cranberry Junction. The Nisga’a Lava Bed Park off to the southwest is extremely interesting, worth a day itself.

Over the past few years I’d seen some information about the Northwest Transmission Line, but didn’t know that construction is well underway. This is an approximately 344-kilometre, 287 kilovolt transmission line between Skeena Substation (near Terrace) and a new substation being built near Bob Quinn Lake at Km 197 on the Stewart-Cassiar, with a connecting line to Iskut at Km 406.

Northwest Transmission Line, Stewart-Cassiar Highway

Meziadin Junction, at Km 97.5. To the left (south) 61 km is the town of Stewart, to the right 569 km is the Alaska Highway.

Meziadin Junction, Stewart-Cassiar Highway

There used to be a lodge at Meziadin Junction, but it closed quite a few years ago. The owner of the property is probably doing well now, with a powerline construction camp on the site.

Powerline construction camp at Meziadin Junction

Heading north from Meziadin Junction at 3:50 pm.

Heading north from Meziadin Junction, BC

The smoke is coming from clearing along the new powerline high on the slopes above the highway.

Powerline above the Stewart-Cassiar Highway

Along the Stewart-Cassiar, it’s a good idea to fuel up at almost every opportunity. The Bell II Lodge presents just such an opportunity, and the price wasn’t bad at $1.45 per liter.

The second crossing of the Bell-Irving River is a few hundred yards north of the lodge (so Bell II). The yellow sign warns motorcyclists that this is an open-grate metal deck bridge (awful things on a bike!).

The unspoiled wilderness that made the Stewart-Cassiar unique is certainly history 🙁

Powerline along the Stewart-Cassiar Highway

There were a few signs warning of possible lengthy delays due to the powerline construction, but I didn’t hit any.

Powerline construction along the Stewart-Cassiar Highway

Sunset was at 6:58 pm, when I was at Gnat Pass, south of Dease Lake. I had packed my Arctic sleeping bag in case I decided to sleep in the car, and that’s what I did on Saturday night. I actually had 3 sleeps of varying lengths between Dease Lake and Nugget City on the Alaska Highway – 3 hours, 2 hours and an hour and a half. I hit a lot of fog and some rain during the night, so driving was exhausting at times.

This shot of the Nisutlin Bay Bridge at Teslin was taken 35 minutes before the 8:10 am sunrise on Sunday morning.

Sunrise along Teslin Lake at 7:45 am.

Further down Teslin Lake 11 minutes later.

This spot west of Johnson’s Crossing is a good location to see caribou. Although I didn’t see any this time, I did make a U-turn to get some fog photos.

A foggy Fall morning on the Alaska Highway west of Teslin

And that was it – I got home, fairly well rested, just after 9:30. Cathy hadn’t expected me back so soon and had a plan for the day, to do a road trip to Braeburn for lunch with my niece. Of course, I invited myself to join them!

Getting hot: williams lake to spences bridge, exploring the historic venus silver mill, days 3 & 4: driving from dawson creek to farwell canyon, about the author.

Murray Lundberg

It's better to fly from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada. The fly or drive score is:

$273.73 USD to CAD
Vancouver to Whitehorse drive
trips from Vancouver to Whitehorse

What is the fly or drive score?

The fly or drive score is an estimate of the true cost of travel. A lower score is better . Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. If you're taking time off work because you have to drive an extra day, it might be better to fly even if driving is technically cheaper. Tap on a blue or orange value to customize it.

Enter the total number of travelers. This will be used to calculate the sum of plane tickets for everyone, as well as the number of cars you need if you're planning a road trip. We assume a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can change the number of cars if your situation is different. Number of travelers:

We estimated the cheapest price for a round trip plane ticket from YVR to YXY at $343. To change the price for your flight, enter it here: Airfare price: $

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for local transportation at your destination. This might include a car rental to drive around the area, or the cost of a cab or airport shuttle to get to your hotel. You could also include an extra cost for food at the airport, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the total number of cars you'll be taking on the road trip. This will be used to calculate the total cost of driving for everyone. The default is a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can adjust the number of cars to fit your situation. Number of cars:

Enter the fuel efficiency of your vehicle in miles per gallon (mpg). If you're unsure of the exact number, you can look it up on the fueleconomy.gov site. Vehicle fuel efficiency: mpg

Enter the average fuel price for your trip in U.S. dollars. If you're taking a long road trip, the gas price in each state may vary. Remember to adjust for premium or diesel fuel prices. Average gas price: $

We chose Vancouver International Airport (YVR) as your departure airport. You can change it to another nearby airport by selecting one below. If the airport you want isn't listed, change your locations. Departure airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Victoria International Airport (YYJ) Bellingham International Airport (BLI) Orcas Island Airport (ESD) Westsound/WSX Seaplane Base (WSX) Vancouver Harbour Water Airport (CXH) Nanaimo Airport (YCD) Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) Roche Harbor Seaplane Base (RCE)

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to the departure airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive your own car. Make sure you include extra time for parking if you are driving yourself. Time to get to the airport: minutes

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for check-in at the airport. Some airlines require you to check-in by a certain time if you haven't done it online beforehand. Remember to leave enough time to get through security lines. Check-in and wait time: minutes

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to your destination after you've landed at the arrival airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive a rental car. Make sure you include extra time to get to the rental agency and pick up the rental car if you are choosing that option. Time to get to your destination: minutes

We chose Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY) as your arrival airport. For your destination, this is the only nearby major airport. If you are looking for another airport, try changing your destination.

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on hotel nights. We estimate you'll need to stay at a hotel for every 12 hours of driving, and the average cost of a hotel will be around $75. It doesn't really matter how many times you stay overnight, the important thing is the total sum of all of your hotel costs. Enter that number below. Total hotel costs: $

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for pit stops, rest stops, gas, naps, or detours along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra time: minutes

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for the road trip. Think about the cost of tolls, food or snacks if you're bringing groceries or stopping at restaurants, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. You can also include the cost of a car rental here. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the amount per mile you want to use to estimate the wear and tear on your car. This can vary depending on your preference. Some companies might pay 50 cents per mile for business travel, and the IRS has various rules for standard mileage rates. On the other hand, you may want to focus more on typical maintenance costs and depreciation, which might be closer to 10 cents per mile. Set this to zero if you're renting a car. Enter your wear and tear cost per mile below. Wear and tear: cents per mile

Driving is usually cheaper, but it takes a lot longer. So in order to get a better comparison, we include a special "value of time factor" that estimates how much your time is worth. If you take a day off work for a long road trip instead of a quick flight, you might add up your lost earnings. The default we use is $10/hr but you can enter any value you want below. If there are multiple travelers, you can enter the sum of everyone's value. Value of time factor: $ per hour

Fly or drive from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest .

More trip calculations

Hotels near Whitehorse, Canada
airports near Whitehorse, Canada
airlines flying to Whitehorse, Canada
Non-stop Flights
Flight Distance
Drive Distance
Flying Time
Driving Time
Cost Of Driving
Time Zone Change

Cost to fly or drive

You can adjust any of the settings above to customize the calculation for your exact trip. We assume some simple default values to get a quick answer to start.

The Fly Score is an estimate of how much it would cost you to take a flight, including factors to account for the value of your time getting to the airport, checking in, and waiting for the plane to take off and land. The default fly score is 375 from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada.

The Drive Score is a comparable calculation that estimates the total cost of doing a road trip. You might spend less on gas than the price of airfare, but it could take you longer to get there if you're driving. So we include the value of your time spent in the car, as well as additional costs for things like hotel, tolls, food, and whatever else you want to include. The default drive score from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada is 1286 .

So in this case, it's better to fly from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada. It's significantly cheaper to fly on this trip, unless you made adjustments to the numbers above to alter the calculation.

If you end up driving, you'll go through about 59.6 gallons of gas during this trip. This is equal to 225.5 litres .

If you fill your tank with unleaded gasoline, the carbon emissions will be around 1,165 lbs CO2 . This is equivalent to 529 kg CO2e or 0.53 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents. These numbers may change depending on the exact make and model of your car. If your vehicle uses diesel instead, the CO2 emissions will be around 1,365 lbs CO2 , which is equivalent to 619 kg CO2e or 0.62 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents.

These results are based on the actual driving distance from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada, which is 1,489 miles or 2 396 kilometers . You can also check the cost of driving from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada .

Your trip begins in Vancouver, Canada. Our data is primarily for U.S. gas prices, but rough estimates show that fuel prices in Canada are around 1.3 times U.S. prices, so we estimated an average gas price of $4.60 in Canada .

Your trip ends in Whitehorse, Canada. Our data is primarily for U.S. gas prices, but rough estimates show that fuel prices in Canada are around 1.3 times U.S. prices, so we estimated an average gas price of $4.60 in Canada .

Currently, we only have exact data for locations in the United States. To improve the accuracy of your fuel cost estimate, you can enter the actual price you pay for gas or petrol at the local pump in the table above.

Fly or drive

Travelmath provides an online cost calculator to help you determine whether it's better to fly or drive to your destination. You can calculate the cost of getting to the airport and booking a flight versus paying for gas and driving your own car or a rental car. There are lots of other factors, like travel time, number of passengers, hotel stops, and other details that can affect your decision. So while we offer a quick "best case scenario" that is completely automated, you also have the option to customize every detail to your particular needs. Use this tool to find out if it's cheaper to fly or drive to your destination!

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36 Best Stops Between Whitehorse and Vancouver

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How long is the drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver?

The direct drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver is 1,630 mi (2,623 km) , and should have a drive time of 1 day 7 hrs in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Whitehorse to Vancouver, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Penticton , Bellingham , West Kelowna , Oliver , Kamloops , and Summerland , as well as top places to visit like Helmcken Falls and Wells Gray Park Visitor Information Centre, or the ever-popular Kiskatinaw Bridge.

Top cities between Whitehorse and Vancouver

West Kelowna

Best stops along Whitehorse to Vancouver drive

Kiskatinaw bridge.

Helmcken Falls

Wells Gray Park Visitor Information Centre

Mill lake park, clayburn village store, hell's gate airtram, lake whatcom, cultus lake waterpark, mcarthur island park, riverside park, bridal veil falls provincial park, othello tunnels, nooksack falls, mountain man adventure tours, bc wildlife park, monte creek winery, seattle premium outlets, journeys east, boeing future of flight, big four ice caves, zipzone peachland, mission hill family estate winery.

Quails' Gate Winery

Apex mountain resort, dirty laundry vineyard, visit penticton - visitor information centre, skaha lake park, silver sage winery, black hills estate winery.

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Vancouver?

Get inspired for your trip to Vancouver with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

1-Day Vancouver Itinerary
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from whitehorse to vancouver.

Yes! You can drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver.

How far is Vancouver from Whitehorse by car?

The drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver is 1,630 miles (2,623 km).

How long does it take to drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver?

Driving from Whitehorse to Vancouver should take you 1 day 7 hrs in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Whitehorse to Vancouver?

Gas from Whitehorse to Vancouver would cost around $143 to $333 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Whitehorse to Vancouver?

You could check out Helmcken Falls and Wells Gray Park Visitor Information Centre, or the always popular Kiskatinaw Bridge!

What are the best cities to visit between Whitehorse and Vancouver?

People love visiting Penticton, Bellingham, and West Kelowna, among others.

What's the weather like in Whitehorse?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

Weather in Whitehorse in January
Weather in Whitehorse in February
Weather in Whitehorse in March
Weather in Whitehorse in April
Weather in Whitehorse in May
Weather in Whitehorse in June
Weather in Whitehorse in July
Weather in Whitehorse in August
Weather in Whitehorse in September
Weather in Whitehorse in October
Weather in Whitehorse in November
Weather in Whitehorse in December

What are some other road trips from Whitehorse?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Whitehorse.

Whitehorse to Juneau drive
Whitehorse to Seattle drive
Whitehorse to Vancouver drive
Whitehorse to Skagway drive
Whitehorse to Banff National Park drive
Whitehorse to Anchorage drive
Whitehorse to Victoria drive
Whitehorse to Jasper National Park drive
Whitehorse to Calgary drive
Whitehorse to Banff drive
Whitehorse to Fairbanks drive
Whitehorse to Jasper drive
Whitehorse to Ketchikan drive
Whitehorse to Denali National Park and Preserve drive
Whitehorse to Girdwood drive
Whitehorse to Seward drive
Whitehorse to Whistler drive
Whitehorse to Glacier National Park drive
Whitehorse to Dawson City drive
Whitehorse to Drumheller drive
Whitehorse to Kelowna drive
Whitehorse to Homer drive
Whitehorse to Spokane drive
Whitehorse to Tofino drive
Whitehorse to Lake Louise drive
Whitehorse to Edmonton drive
Whitehorse to Haines drive
Whitehorse to North Vancouver drive
Whitehorse to Valdez drive
Whitehorse to Central Saanich drive

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Distance between Vancouver and Whitehorse

Driving non-stop from vancouver to whitehorse.

How far is Whitehorse from Vancouver? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 1,489 miles or 2396 km

Driving time: 29 hours, 2 minutes

This is a really long drive, so it's not very realistic to drive nonstop. To get a better idea of how long this road trip would actually take, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would be if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from Vancouver to Whitehorse

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between Vancouver, British Columbia and Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

Flight distance: 919 miles or 1480 km

Flight time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

The straight line flight distance is 570 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.6x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/12th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a medium length flight, so unless you have a nice private jet, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

Vancouver to Whitehorse road trip

Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Whitehorse, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over more than one day.

Road trip: 2 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 27.5 hours on the road with 1 overnight

Start in Vancouver .

Drive for about 4 hours , then stop in Cache Creek and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 4.5 hours then stop in Prince George . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 4.5 hours , then stop in Smithers and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 8 hours then stop in Porter Landing (British Columbia) . Stay overnight. Finally, drive for about 7 hours and arrive in Whitehorse .

Vancouver to Whitehorse airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Arrival airport: Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 21 minutes

Getting to your destination: 3 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from YVR to YXY on Air Canada and figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway.

Commercial flight time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from Vancouver to Whitehorse including time spent getting to/from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, and the actual flight itself.

Total travel time: 5 hours

Plan a trip to Whitehorse

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in Whitehorse . Click the button below to explore Whitehorse in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from Whitehorse to Vancouver , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know Vancouver, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Vancouver!

More info on this route: drive from Vancouver to Whitehorse road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions

IMAGES

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Vancouver to Whitehorse Yukon Road Trip!
Road trip: Vancouver to Whitehorse in 46 hours: Day 2
Road trip: Vancouver to Whitehorse in 46 hours: Day 2
Roadtrip from Vancouver to Whitehorse: Essential Stops

VIDEO

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COMMENTS

Road Trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse
The 2,560km road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse will take you 30 hours to drive. The route passes Prince George, Rocky Mountains and Muncho Lake as well as Rancheria Falls, Cottonwood Island Nature Park, Pink Mountain, Marsh Lake and Miles Canyon. There is so much to see on this drive north through British Columbia into Yukon territory, so ...
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Having traveled extensively around the world, I've come to appreciate the unique beauty and charm that each destination offers. But there's something truly special about the journey from Vancouver, one of the most populous cities in Canada, to Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon.. The scenic landscapes, the rich history, and the diverse cultures make this road trip an unforgettable experience.
Vancouver to Whitehorse drive
10:00 am start in Vancouver. drive for about 4 hours. 1:57 pm Cache Creek. stay for about 1 hour. and leave at 2:57 pm. drive for about 4.5 hours. 7:18 pm Prince George. stay overnight and leave the next day around 8:00 am. day 1 driving ≈ 8.5 hours.
Road Trip
Drive time: approximately 4 hours. Continuing west on Highway 16, you will find the villages of Hazelton and New Hazelton. Take an hour to take a walk to check out the lookout and waterfall here. To get to the start of the trail, head to the end of Laurier Street in New Hazelton.
The BEST Yukon Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1 - Whitehorse, Yukon. Whitehorse, the capital of the territory, is the perfect place to start your Yukon road trip on day 1! The Erik Nielson Whitehorse International Airport is decently connected with a few major cities in Canada, including Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton, meaning that travelling to the Yukon is getting easier if you aren't planning on driving from your home.
Road Trip: Vancouver to Whitehorse via Sea to Sky & Cassiar Highways
Sea to Sky Highway. This awe-inspiring highway, officially known as BC Highway 99, is an incredible coastal route from Vancouver to Whistler. It is filled with switchback turns, inspiring views, and fun bucket-list stops. You will drive the highway in its entirety - just over 160km - on your route to the Klondike!
36 Best Stops Between Vancouver and Whitehorse
How long is the drive from Vancouver to Whitehorse? The direct drive from Vancouver to Whitehorse is 1,630 mi (2,623 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 7 hrs in normal traffic.. If you're going on a road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Penticton, Bellingham, West Kelowna, Oliver, Kamloops, and ...
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Canada - Road Trips - Slider. Vancouver to Whitehorse via the world-famous Alaska Highway is a 12-15 days road trip that takes you through history and untamed wilderness of BC's north. Note: This post is for travellers that have limited time and cannot travel for a long time on an RV. We are working professionals and have access to limited ...
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Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Vancouver to Whitehorse. If you're planning a road trip to Whitehorse, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops. Camping along the way?
The ultimate one-way road trip to Whitehorse, Yukon
North to Whitehorse. The epic road trip. ... This awe-inspiring highway, officially known as BC Highway 99, is an incredible coastal route from Vancouver all the way up to Whistler. Quiet campspot along Highway 99. Along the road, you drive through the Howe Sound inlet, pass numerous islands, mountains, provincial parks, and many points of ...
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The route from the Vancouver airport to Whitehorse via the Stewart-Cassiar Highway is 2,408 km (1,497 miles) - that's 13 km further than from Vancouver to Ensenada, Mexico! ... The geek's road trip, with SPOT, iPod with FM transmitter, GPS, phone, 110 convertor, chargers, cables - and Cheezies 🙂 The back seat was full of travel stuff ...
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Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Whitehorse to Vancouver drive, or go to the main page to plan a new road trip. You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Vancouver to Whitehorse. Or get a full Vancouver to Whitehorse flight plan.
RV Travel BC| Vancouver to Whitehorse
From one of the most livable cities in the world to the untamed wilderness of Canada's Great North, there's so much to discover on this epic road trip from Vancouver to the Yukon Territory. Please note that if you pick up from a location other than Whitehorse, both the northern surcharge and US travel fee will be payable.
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My daughter and I did the reverse a while ago - Whitehorse to Liard Hot Springs (approx 7 hours), Liard Hot Springs to Prince George (a long day, but do-able), and Vancouver by 2 pm the next day. 4. Re: Road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse in August. The roads will be in good condition.
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Quesnel to Whitehorse, via the Stewart-Cassiar Highway. Having reached Quesnel at a reasonable hour Friday evening, I had a good night's sleep and was away from the Gold Pan Motel by 4:30 am. I planned on a very long day, with Dease Lake the hoped-for destination. It was inky black and raining when I left Quesnel, but at least traffic was ...
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It's great! I made this particular trip back in 2004. Starting in Vancouver, with a little detour to Calgary for a Conference final game from the Flames vs. San Jose.Took the southern route east out of Vancouver along Hwy 3, then Hwy 95/93, Icefields Parkway, Hwy. 16 till Kitwanga and from there the magnificent Cassiar Highway(37) with a detour to Stewart/Hyder.
Fly or Drive from Vancouver, Canada to Whitehorse, Canada
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36 Best Stops Between Whitehorse and Vancouver
How long is the drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver? The direct drive from Whitehorse to Vancouver is 1,630 mi (2,623 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 7 hrs in normal traffic.. If you're going on a road trip from Whitehorse to Vancouver, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Penticton, Bellingham, West Kelowna, Oliver, Kamloops, and ...
A2Z Typhoon Pro NACS Adapter
I did the math and with the rates in Metro Vancouver, I would have to use approx. 1600km/1000mi of Supercharger charging per month to break even with the subscription ($0.05/kWh discount). So I will probably only sign up for that when going on a road trip where I can take full advantage of the discount. ... Whitehorse, Yukon Vehicles 2023 ...
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Vancouver to Whitehorse road trip. Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Whitehorse, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping ...

Road Trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

How far is Whitehorse from Vancouver and how long will the road trip take?

Best road trip route from Vancouver to Whitehorse

Road trip route from Vancouver to Whitehorse

Best places to stop between Vancouver and Whitehorse

Explore and unwind in Prince George

Overnight stop in Muncho Lake, British Columbia

Things to see on a road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

Best time to go on a road trip from Vancouver to Whitehorse

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Roadtrip from Vancouver to Whitehorse: Essential Stops

1. The Allure of the Journey

The Sea to Sky Highway

Whistler’s Winter Wonderland

2. The Heart of British Columbia

Pemberton’s Autumn Beauty

The Serenity of Highway 99

3. The Rustic Charm of the Cariboo Highway

The Vibrancy of 100 Mile House

Williams Lake’s Adventurous Spirit

4. The Northern Mystique

Quesnel’s Historic Charm

Prince George: The Urban Oasis

5. The Enigmatic Stewart Cassiar Highway

The Historic Kitwanga

The Isolated Beauty of Dease Lake

6. The Final Stretch: Towards Whitehorse

The Tranquility of Teslin

The Wilderness City: Whitehorse

7. The Yukon’s Hidden Gems

Dawson City: Echoes of the Gold Rush

Kluane National Park: Nature’s Grandeur

8. Embracing the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis Experience

Takhini Hot Springs: A Warm Embrace

9. The Culinary Delights of the Yukon

Traditional First Nations Cuisine

Modern Yukon Eateries

10. Farewell to the Yukon

Reflecting on the Journey

The Promise to Return

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drive to the Yukon from Vancouver?

What is the most scenic drive in Vancouver?

How to drive from BC to Yukon?

Is it safe to travel to the Yukon right now?

Where can I see Aurora in Whitehorse?

What is the best month to see the northern lights in Whitehorse?

Is Whitehorse Yukon expensive?

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