Northern Lights and Huskies

Exploring the Yukon’s Wilderness with Huskies and Northern Lights

For those dreaming of a cozy, authentic Arctic experience, the Northern Lights and Huskies tour offered by Muktuk Adventures in Whitehorse might just be a perfect fit. While I haven’t personally been on this trip, the glowing 5-star reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect. If you’re someone who loves dogs, the night sky, and the thrill of the wilderness, this small-group adventure offers a taste of true northern magic.

What really stands out for us are the personalized feel—with only up to six guests, you’re not just another face in a crowd. Plus, the chance to help exercise the sled dogs and spend nights under the stars watching for the Northern Lights makes it feel genuine and immersive. On the flip side, the non-refundable policy might be a concern if your travel plans are uncertain, so it’s worth considering carefully before booking.

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers, dog lovers, and those eager to experience Yukon’s raw beauty without the fuss of large, commercial tours. It’s also a good pick if you prefer a more hands-on experience, but still want comfort—meals, outdoor gear, and cozy lodges are included.

Key Points

• Intimate group size offers a personal experience; only up to six travelers.
• Hands-on dog activities include helping exercise over 100 sled dogs, with rides in a golf cart for viewers.
• The potential for Northern Lights viewing depends on activity, but the lodge’s location makes it highly favorable.
• Comfortable accommodations with shared bathrooms and all meals provided.
• The tour’s cost includes meals, outdoor gear, and transportation, offering good value for the overall experience.
• No guided Northern Lights tour—you just sit outside and hope for the best, which can be magical or disappointing depending on the night.

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re curious what this adventure feels like, let’s break down each part of the trip and what it really involves.

The Lodge and Accommodation

You’ll settle into a small lodge in Whitehorse, with just four guest rooms. It’s a simple but cozy setup, with shared bathrooms, which might not be ideal for those seeking maximum privacy but helps build a communal, friendly vibe. The lodge’s location is key here—it’s well placed for venturing outside to see the Northern Lights, if the skies are clear and active.

The Dog Activities

One of the highlights is definitely the dog exercise session. Over 100 sled dogs are on site, and you get to help exercise them for the upcoming winter. Don’t worry—you won’t be running yourself; instead, you’ll sit comfortably in a Side by Side (a kind of golf cart) while the dogs pull you along. This setup is appreciated in reviews, with one guest describing it as “riding along in a golf cart while they run.” It’s a way to connect with the dogs without the physical exertion on your part, which makes it accessible even for those less able or new to outdoor activities.

Yukon Wildlife Preserve Visit

On another day, you’ll visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, which offers an opportunity to see local animals and learn about Yukon’s diverse ecosystem. This is a nice contrast to the dog sledding, providing a broader understanding of the region’s natural environment. We liked that the itinerary balances active participation with educational moments, making the experience well-rounded.

Northern Lights Experience

While the tour doesn’t include a guided Northern Lights tour, the lodge’s prime location provides a great chance to witness the aurora if conditions are right. You are encouraged to sit outside and watch the sky—warm gear is supplied, making it easier to stay out longer. One reviewer mentioned, “The lodge is ideally located to see the northern lights during night time if they are active,” which is reassuring for aurora hunters.

Meals and Extras

Meals are included, and from feedback, they’ve been described as “delicious,” which is a big plus after a day outdoors. Hot drinks and outdoor gear are also provided, so you won’t need to worry about bringing everything yourself. The tour roughly runs for three days, with pickup offered at 4:00 pm on the first day, giving you a flexible but structured schedule.

Price and Value

At around $703.47 per person, the cost may seem steep, but it covers a lot: accommodations, meals, outdoor gear, and activities. Considering the small group size, personalized experience, and the chance to be hands-on with sled dogs, many guests find it reasonable. The reviews confirm this, with one person calling it “one of our favorite trips of our lives,” highlighting the value in the experience itself rather than just the cost.

Practical Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is the non-refundable policy—if your plans change, you’ll lose your payment. This is fairly common with specialized tours, but it’s worth noting. Also, since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings depend on weather and aurora activity. Be prepared for some nights where the sky stays quiet.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a genuine wilderness adventure with a personal touch. It’s perfect for dog lovers and those eager to learn about sled dogs and Yukon’s wildlife. It also suits travelers who want to keep things simple and cozy, with meals and gear arranged for you, while still enjoying outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a luxurious, highly guided tour with specific aurora viewing opportunities, this might not be your best bet. But if you love a small-group, authentic experience with the chance to see the Northern Lights, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights and Huskies tour offers a rare combination of personalized interaction with sled dogs, the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, and a cozy stay at a lodge in Yukon. Its small size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the included activities provide a good mix of fun, learning, and authentic Yukon adventure.

While the price might seem high, the inclusion of meals, outdoor gear, and the memorable experience of working with sled dogs justify the cost for many. It’s a trip that will appeal to those who want to connect with nature, enjoy some hands-on fun, and hopefully catch the Northern Lights in a serene, intimate setting.

If you’re up for a genuine Yukon experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, and the tour starts at 4:00 pm, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is six travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

What is included in the price?
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), hot drinks, outdoor gear, and the Side by Side rides for exercising the sled dogs are included.

Can I participate if I don’t want to help exercise the dogs?
Yes, participation is optional; you can enjoy the scenery and the experience without taking an active role.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour doesn’t include guided aurora tours—you’re encouraged to sit outside and watch if conditions are right. The lodge’s location gives a good chance, but sightings depend on natural factors.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour’s focus on outdoor activities and shared facilities suggests it’s best suited for older children and adults. Check specific age recommendations if traveling with kids.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

This Yukon adventure offers a quiet, engaging escape into the wilderness, perfect for those craving a deeper connection with nature and the thrill of the northern skies.