If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in the Yukon, this tour from Wild Adventure Yukon offers a well-rounded evening of winter adventure, culture, and, of course, the chance to see the sky dance with colors. It’s a package that combines outdoor activity, local wildlife insight, and a cozy, atmospheric Aurora experience—all in just half a day.
What drew us in? First, the inclusion of a guided snowshoe trek—an activity that lets you really get a feel for the serenity of the Yukon wilderness. Second, the option to enjoy the Aurora from either a heated semi-private dome or open-air seating offers flexibility for different preferences and comfort levels. One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour spans six hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full, active evening. If you’re after a mix of adventure, culture, and a fair chance at Northern Lights viewing, this tour could be a good fit.
Key Points
- Combination of outdoor activity and cultural experience with snowshoeing and wildlife museum.
- Flexible Aurora viewing options: heated dome or open firepit.
- Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup in Whitehorse and Carcross.
- Inclusion of local cuisine like Yukon chili and charcuterie enhances the cozy factor.
- Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a full evening out in winter conditions.
- Pricing at $183 per person offers a balanced value considering the included activities and experiences.
What to Expect on the Tour
Hotel Pickup & Comfortable Transportation
Starting your evening with hotel pickup in a climate-controlled shuttle sets a relaxed tone. The tour covers pickups within 2km of Whitehorse Airport and along the Klondike Highway, which means most accommodations are easily accessible. This eliminates the hassle of self-driving in snowy conditions, especially late at night when you’re eager to focus on the experience.
Guided Snowshoe Trek in Whitehorse Wilderness
One of the highlights is the guided snowshoe trek through Whitehorse’s tranquil, snow-covered trails. We loved the way this activity connects you directly with nature—quiet, pristine, and beautiful. It’s a gentle hike suitable for most fitness levels, and even beginners should feel comfortable. The expert guides will assist and ensure you’re safe, but it’s worth noting that the trek is about experiencing the scenery rather than intense physical activity.
Scenic Drive to Carcross
After the snowshoe adventure, you’ll hop into the shuttle for a 52-minute scenic drive to Carcross. The mountain vistas along the way are breathtaking, especially in winter. This short drive acts as a perfect transition between outdoor activity and cultural exploration, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife Museum in Carcross
Once in Carcross, the tour visits Northern Canada’s largest wildlife museum. Here, you can see everything from Ice Age giants like a full-sized woolly mammoth to modern Arctic animals, including a display of the world’s largest polar bear. Visitors often find this segment both educational and fun, especially if you’re interested in Arctic flora and fauna or traveling with curious companions. It’s a good way to get some context about the region’s wildlife and environment.
Aurora Viewing – Two Ways to Dream
The core of the tour is, of course, Northern Lights viewing. You can choose between:
- Romance Under the Aurora (Premium): A semi-private heated dome with a glass ceiling offers a cozy, private space. You’ll enjoy gourmet charcuterie, Yukon chili, and hot chocolate while watching the lights dance overhead. This setting is perfect if you prefer a more intimate, luxurious experience.
- Gateway to the Light (Standard): A more social experience by gathering around a fire at an open-air seating area. You’ll still enjoy the delicious food and drinks but with the added thrill of being under the open sky, directly witnessing the aurora in a natural setting.
Both options promise a chance to see the waves of color across the Arctic sky, but keep in mind that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The tour’s timing and weather conditions influence this, so it’s always a bit of a waiting game. That said, the guides have good local knowledge, and the viewing spots are selected for their likelihood of clear skies.
End of the Night
After the spectacle, you’ll be chauffeured back to your accommodation, ending your evening on a warm note. The entire experience is designed to be well-paced, balancing activity, culture, comfort, and the chance to catch nature’s most spectacular light show.
Analyzing the Value
At $183 per person, this tour offers a fairly comprehensive package. You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided snowshoe trek, a visit to a notable wildlife museum, and two unique options for Aurora viewing. The inclusion of hot chocolate, Yukon chili, and gourmet charcuterie adds a touch of luxury, making the evening feel special but relaxed.
Compared to standalone activities like just Aurora viewing or snowshoeing, this combo provides a richer understanding of Yukon’s environment. It’s especially good for travelers wanting a full evening out without the stress of managing logistics themselves.
Practical Tips for Booking
- Dress warmly: layers, thermal clothing, waterproof gear are essential. The temperatures can dip as low as -40°C.
- Consider weather conditions: clear skies are key for Aurora sightings, so keep an eye on the forecast.
- Be prepared for some walking on snow trails—good shoes and snow gear help.
- The optional dog sledding is available but not included; if you’re interested, ask about it on-site.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural stops, and a chance to see the Northern Lights in comfort. It’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues or heart problems, given the winter conditions and outdoor elements involved. If you’re traveling with kids, they might enjoy the wildlife museum and the novelty of snowshoeing, but be sure they’re prepared for the cold.
If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized, all-in-one evening that combines adventure, education, and a chance to witness one of nature’s most incredible displays, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a great way to experience Yukon’s winter magic without the stress of planning each detail yourself.
Whitehorse: Aurora Viewing with Wild Adventure Yukon
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from accommodations within 2km of Whitehorse Airport and along the Klondike Highway.
What should I wear for the snowshoe trek?
Dress in warm, weather-appropriate layers, including thermal clothing, snow gear, and winter sports apparel to stay comfortable in cold conditions.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour aims to maximize your chances, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides pick locations based on forecasted clear skies.
What food is included during the Aurora viewing?
You’ll enjoy gourmet charcuterie, Yukon chili, and hot chocolate, making the experience cozy and delicious, whether you choose the heated dome or open fire.
Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for active travelers comfortable with winter conditions. However, the tour’s physical aspects and outdoor elements may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off, usually starting in the early evening.
What if I want to add dog sledding?
The optional dog sledding ride is available for purchase on-site, usually lasting about 15 minutes and subject to availability.
Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is $183 per person, which covers most activities, transportation, and food. It offers good value considering the inclusions.
If you’re after an evening that blends outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and the chance to witness the Aurora in a comfortable setting, this tour from Wild Adventure Yukon could be a solid choice. It balances activity and relaxation with a good shot at seeing one of nature’s most dazzling displays, all wrapped in the charm of Yukon winter.
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