Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour | full day

Exploring Yukon’s Natural Beauty with the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour

If you’re considering a full-day outdoor adventure around Whitehorse, the Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour might be just what you’re looking for. Though I haven’t experienced it firsthand, it’s a popular choice for those craving a taste of Yukon’s wild landscapes, especially if you enjoy moderate hikes and picturesque scenery.

What immediately stands out about this tour are two things we really like: firstly, the chance to see some iconic Yukon sights like Emerald Lake and the Carcross Desert without feeling rushed, and secondly, the intimate group size—only up to 8 travelers—which usually makes for a more relaxed, engaging experience.

A possible consideration is that the full-day itinerary involves quite a bit of walking, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. If you’re not into hiking or aren’t prepared for some physical activity, this may not be your ideal trip. That said, if you love exploring diverse landscapes and enjoy scenic walks, this tour could be a great fit.

It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, small-group experience and are interested in seeing some of Yukon’s most photogenic spots, from lakes to deserts.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Scenic Experience: Visit Emerald Lake, Carcross Commons, and the famous Carcross Desert.
• Moderate Fitness Required: The hike up the Mountain Hero Trailhead takes about 2 hours and involves some elevation.
• Small Group Advantage: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect a more personalized, less crowded experience.
• Includes Snacks & Water: Stay fueled with an energy bar and bottled water, making the day more comfortable.
• Flexible and Authentic: No crowds, just genuine landscape views and local highlights.
• Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Perfect if you enjoy moderate hikes and scenic photography.

A Deep Dive into the Yukon’s Natural Charms

Let’s walk through what this tour actually offers, and what you can expect at each point. I think understanding the details helps you decide if it’s worth the cost—$208.81 per person, which includes snacks, water, and transportation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point at Whitehorse’s Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre
The tour kicks off at 10:30 am from this central location. This is convenient if you’re staying in Whitehorse, and it sets a relaxed tone for your day. The group is capped at 8 people, which often translates into a more personalized experience and easier conversation with your guide.

First Stop: Emerald Lake
You’ll make a quick 15-minute stop for photos at Emerald Lake. This is a genuine highlight—its vivid color makes for stunning photos, and it’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs before the real hiking begins. It’s also free of charge, so no extra costs here. Expect to be wowed by the clarity and vibrant hues of the water.

Second Stop: Carcross Commons
Next, you’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring the shops and cafes at Carcross Commons. It’s a delightful spot with local crafts, quaint cafes, and a relaxed vibe. This break also offers an opportunity to learn a bit about the local community. It’s a nice transition from the natural scenery to a touch of local Yukon life.

The Hike Up Mountain Hero Trailhead
The main event is the roughly 2-hour ascent along the Mountain Hero Trail, built as the Sam McGee Trail. Here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Southern Lakes—an area renowned for its stunning waters and mountain backdrops. The trail has historical significance, which guides will share, and the ascent is manageable for those with moderate fitness.

During the hike, expect to learn about the region’s mining history and enjoy the landscapes that have drawn visitors for generations. This part of the tour truly delivers the kind of scenery that makes Yukon memorable—untouched, expansive, and picture-perfect.

Final Stop: Carcross Desert
The tour wraps up with a quick 15-minute stop at what is scientifically considered the world’s smallest desert. It’s a surreal landscape—rolling dunes amid a lush forest environment—that makes for a fun photo op and a conversation starter about how a desert can exist in such a cool spot.

What About the Price?

At just over $200, this tour offers quite a bit in terms of scenery, small-group intimacy, and guided insights. Considering the inclusion of snacks and bottled water, it’s competitive for a full-day outdoor experience in a remote area like Yukon. The price doesn’t include lunch, so plan to bring your own or buy something in Carcross if you’re hungry after the hike.

How’s the Experience for Different Travelers?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic walks, moderate hikes, and exploring diverse landscapes. It’s not overly strenuous but does require a decent level of physical fitness. If you’re a traveler who appreciates nature, history, and small-group adventures, this will suit you well.

While it’s not marketed explicitly as family-friendly, the moderate nature of the hike and the focus on scenic vistas make it accessible for active teens or older children comfortable with walking. However, young kids or those with mobility issues might find the hike challenging.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Though there are no reviews yet, the highlights like the stunning lakes, the small group size, and the chance to experience the Yukon’s iconic landscapes are what travelers typically rave about in similar tours. The fact that the tour runs for about 6 and a half hours means you get ample time to absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Bring layers: Even in summer, mornings and higher elevations can be cool.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes: The trails are moderate but expect uneven terrain.
• Stay hydrated: The included bottled water is helpful, but you might want a little extra if it’s a warm day.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses will be handy, especially in the open desert area.
• Plan for lunch: Since it’s not included, pack a snack or plan to grab something in Carcross.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love hitting the trails with a small, friendly group and want a well-rounded Yukon experience, this tour checks many boxes. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to see the Southern Lakes and Carcross Desert without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided hikes that include cultural and historical insights, adding depth to the visual beauty. While not a hardcore adventure, it offers enough activity to satisfy those who enjoy physical exploration with a comfortable, small-group vibe.

Final Thoughts

The Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour seems like a fantastic way to spend a day immersed in Yukon’s wild beauty. The stops are thoughtfully curated, balancing scenic viewpoints with light cultural insights. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it less about rushing around and more about soaking in the views.

While it’s not the cheapest outdoor tour out there, the combination of diverse scenery, moderate activity, and personalized attention makes it worth considering, especially if your time in Whitehorse is limited and you want a snapshot of Yukon’s best natural highlights.

If you’re prepared for a day of sightseeing, light hiking, and photo-taking, this tour could become a cherished memory of your Yukon adventure.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Whitehorse.

What’s included in the price?
You get snacks (an energy bar), bottled water, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is guided with a small group.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour involves moderate hiking, so it’s better suited for those with a moderate fitness level. It’s not specifically marketed for children, but active teens might find it enjoyable.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring layers for changing weather, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a small backpack if you want extra water or snacks.

Where does the tour start and finish?
It begins at The Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any admission fee I need to worry about?
No, all major stops like Emerald Lake, Carcross Commons, and the Carcross Desert are free of charge.

Will I get enough time to take photos?
Absolutely. The stops are brief but enough for capturing the scenery and snapping some memories.

If Yukon’s landscapes are calling your name, this tour offers a manageable, scenic way to see some of its most iconic sights with a friendly group and expert guidance.