Arctic Snowmobiling Half Day Tour

Thinking about adding a dash of adrenaline to your Whitehorse visit? This Arctic Snowmobiling Half Day Tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve spent enough time in Yukon’s icy landscapes to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect. It’s an adventure built for those who want to experience the Yukon’s wilderness without committing to a full day or more—and at a reasonable price point considering what’s included.

What really caught my attention are the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides. Both are huge pluses, especially because Yukon’s scenery is next-level beautiful and guides often make or break outdoor experiences. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the need for outdoor winter clothing, which isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who are comfortable in cold weather, like a bit of speed, and enjoy scenic exploration over sheer difficulty. If you’re after a fun, well-organized snowmobiling outing with a reasonable timeframe, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Includes all gear and transportation, simplifying your planning.
• Flexible riding pace tailored to your group’s abilities.
• Stunning views of Yukon’s backcountry and Ibex Valley.
• Snacks and beverages provided, keeping you energized.
• Maximum group size of 16 ensures a more personal experience.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead, offering peace of mind.

What is the Arctic Snowmobiling Half Day Tour?

This experience is a half-day adventure (about 4.5 hours) centered around exploring the Yukon’s wilderness on snowmobiles. Starting in Whitehorse, it’s designed to give you a taste of the Yukon’s majestic landscapes with a focus on scenic beauty and fun. The tour covers 20-50 kilometers, which is enough to feel a sense of adventure without overexerting yourself, making it accessible to most travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour is run by Arctic Range Adventure, a reputable provider, and includes everything you need for a safe, enjoyable ride—except your outdoor winter clothing, which you’ll need to bring or rent elsewhere. The experience begins with a pickup from your hotel, making logistics straightforward, and ends back where you started, so no worries about transportation hassles.

The itinerary in detail

Pickup and transfer

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Whitehorse around 1 pm. The guide drives you out along the Alaska Highway, a route that itself is an iconic part of the Yukon experience. This drive sets the tone for the adventure ahead—expect striking views of the surrounding wilderness even before you hit the snow.

Base camp and gear-up

Once at the Arctic Range Adventure Snowmobiling Base Camp, you’ll be fitted with all necessary gear — helmets and gloves are provided, which is great because the Yukon winter can be seriously cold. The guides are known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making sure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

Snowmobiling through the Ibex Valley

Your ride is an extended safari through the backcountry, with the speed tailored to your group’s comfort level. This means no need to worry about being pushed beyond your limits. For those who want an adrenaline rush, the guides can increase pace, while for a more relaxed experience, they’ll keep it slow and scenic.

Scenic stops and photographs

There are plenty of photo breaks—a chance to capture the sweeping vistas, snow-covered trees, and possibly some wildlife if luck is on your side. The views of Levi are particularly noteworthy, offering a sense of untouched wilderness that’s hard to beat.

Return and wrap-up

After about two hours of riding, you’ll head back to the base camp for a quick debrief and then be driven back to your hotel. The overall experience is designed to be well-paced and enjoyable, not rushed.

What’s included and what’s not

Included in your $253.91 per person price are helmets, gloves, transportation, guided tour, and snacks and drinks. The admission ticket to the base camp is part of the package, meaning you won’t be hit with extra costs there.

However, outdoor winter clothing isn’t included—so if you’re not bringing your own warm gear, you might want to rent or buy some beforehand. Also, a security deposit of CA$200 per person is required, which is common for outdoor gear rentals and safety.

The guides and overall experience

Feedback suggests that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more approachable, especially if you’re new to snowmobiling. They also tailor the ride to your ability, so even beginners can enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed.

The views are consistently praised—many describe it as a highlight of their trip. The scenery is what makes this tour special, and guides do a good job of pointing out features and making the ride both fun and scenic.

Price and value

At $253.91, this tour might seem pricey at first glance, but it includes a lot: gear, transportation, snacks, and a professionally guided snowmobiling experience. When you consider the cost of renting gear separately, plus the hassle of planning logistics, this package offers a decent value. Plus, the small group size maximizes comfort and makes for a more personalized experience.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who are comfortable in winter conditions, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and want a taste of Yukon’s wilderness without a full-day commitment. It’s suitable for those who want a guided, safe ride with beautiful views and the flexibility of pacing.

It might not be perfect for travelers who prefer a more leisurely, low-effort experience or those needing outdoor clothing included. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those who aren’t comfortable in cold environments, it’s worth considering your comfort level.

Final thoughts

This Arctic Snowmobiling Half Day Tour offers a well-structured blend of adventure, scenery, and safety. The guides’ local knowledge and the stunning vistas make it a memorable way to experience Yukon’s winter landscape. It’s a solid choice if you want to see more of the Yukon’s wild side without the commitment of full-day tours or multi-day trips.

While it’s not a tour for those looking for extreme snowmobiling or extensive backcountry exploration, it hits the sweet spot for most travelers interested in a fun, scenic, and well-organized activity. Just remember to bring appropriate winter gear, prepare for the cold, and you’re set for a memorable Yukon adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is outdoor winter clothing included in the tour? No, outdoor winter clothing is not included. You’ll need to bring your own gear or plan to rent it separately to stay warm and comfortable.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including pickup, travel to the base camp, snowmobiling, and return.

How many people can join the tour? The maximum group size is 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and manageable.

What is the price per person? The cost is $253.91 per person, which covers gear, guiding, transportation, and snacks.

Are snacks and drinks provided? Yes, snacks and beverages are included, ensuring you stay energized during your adventure.

Can I drive the snowmobile? Yes, the tour allows 2 people per snowmobile, so you can take turns driving if you prefer.

What happens if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refunded.

Taking all these points into account, this snowmobiling tour offers a practical, scenic, and well-supported way to experience Yukon’s winter wilderness. Perfect for those wanting a taste of the snowy outdoors with a safety net and plenty of awe-inspiring views.