Open Fire Aurora Viewing and Snowshoeing Adventure in Whitehorse

If you’re considering a night out chasing the northern lights in Whitehorse, the Open Fire Aurora Viewing and Snowshoeing Adventure from Wild Adventure Yukon might catch your eye. It promises a blend of outdoor fun, cultural exploration, and a cozy fireside finale—pretty much the perfect mix for winter in the Yukon. Since I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ll share what I see as its strengths, along with some honest thoughts on what you might want to consider before booking.

One thing I really appreciate about this experience is how it mixes outdoor activity with cultural insight. Snowshoeing through Whitehorse’s peaceful trails feels like a genuine way to connect with the winter landscape, rather than just watching from a bus or a viewing platform. Plus, the visit to Northern Canada’s largest Wildlife Museum offers a fascinating peek into the region’s fauna, with life-like taxidermy from mammoths to a massive polar bear—sure to impress animal lovers or families looking for an educational stop.

Another aspect I like is the fireside aurora viewing. Sitting by a warm fire, with gourmet chili, charcuterie, and hot cocoa, sounds like the perfect way to relax after an active evening, and it’s a lovely, atmospheric environment for watching the lights dance overhead. The optional dog sled ride adds a dash of extra adventure for those wanting a bit more Yukon thrill, though it does come at an additional cost.

A potential consideration is the clothing requirement. Since the tour doesn’t include winter gear, you’ll need to come prepared for cold temperatures that could dip to -40°C. That’s not a trivial detail—adequate gear is essential for comfort and safety, especially if you’re planning to snowshoe or sit outdoors for a while. If you’re not packing properly, the experience could be less enjoyable.

This tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of outdoor activity, cultural curiosity, and cozy relaxation. It’s ideal if you enjoy nature, want a bit of education along the way, and are looking for a comfortable way to catch the northern lights without sacrificing warmth or style. Also, it caters to those wanting the option of an extra Yukon adventure with the dog sled ride, making it flexible for different thrill levels.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines snowshoeing, wildlife museum, and aurora viewing in one evening.
• Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free.
• Atmospheric setting: Fireside viewing with hot drinks and gourmet snacks enhances the outdoor aurora experience.
• Additional thrill: Optional dog sled ride offers extra adventure for an extra fee.
• Temperature awareness: Tour does not include winter clothing, so pack accordingly.
• Group size: Limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

Hotel Pickup and Snowshoeing

Your evening begins with a climate-controlled Executive Shuttle pickup at your hotel around 8:00 pm. This part of the experience is one of the most convenient aspects—no need to worry about transportation in the chilly Yukon night. Once onboard, the guides will take you through the snow-blanketed trails of Whitehorse. If you’re new to snowshoeing, don’t worry; the equipment is provided, and guides are there to assist. The guided trek lasts for a bit, allowing you to soak in the tranquil winter scenery—quiet forests, softly falling snow, and the crisp, cold air that makes the Yukon winter so special.

Scenic Drive to Carcross and the Wildlife Museum

After your snowshoe adventure, you’ll hop back into the shuttle for a 52-minute scenic drive to Carcross. This tiny community is famous for its stunning landscapes, and the drive itself gives you a chance to admire the stark beauty of the Yukon wilderness. Once in Carcross, your next stop is Northern Canada’s largest Wildlife Museum. Here, you’ll see a variety of taxidermy representing the region’s animals—including mammoths and the world’s largest mounted polar bear. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s natural history and the animals that call it home.

Aurora Viewing and Fireside Experience

As night falls, the highlight begins—the aurora borealis, or northern lights, start their dance across the sky. You’ll settle around a cozy outdoor fireside setup, where you can sit comfortably, warmed by the fire, and enjoy hot cocoa, chili, and charcuterie. This setting creates a relaxed, social atmosphere while you watch the sky for those mesmerizing green, pink, and violet waves.

The open-air fireside might sound cold, but the warmth from the fire, combined with winter gear, makes it manageable. Plus, the silence and darkness of the Yukon night really amplify the auroras’ beauty. Some reviews mention that the lights can be faint or change rapidly, but being in such an atmospheric setting makes the wait worthwhile.

Optional Dog Sled Ride

For those craving a bit more excitement, the tour offers a 15-minute dog sled ride with real Yukon Quest sled dogs. This is an on-site option, costing $75 CAD + GST, and availability depends on the day. It adds a tactile element to your Yukon adventure and gives you a chance to meet the energetic dogs that race the famous Yukon Quest. Keep in mind, this is an additional expense and might not be available every night, so plan accordingly.

Drop-off and Final Thoughts

After a memorable night under the northern lights, your guide will arrange for the hotel drop-off. This part of the experience ties everything together—no worries about driving after a late night, and you get to reflect on your evening comfortably.

What’s Included and What to Remember

The tour price—around $219.66 per person—includes a lot of practical elements: snowshoeing gear, hotel transfers, hot drinks, chili, snacks, and the scenic museum visit. It’s a well-rounded package that balances activity and comfort.

However, one key note is that winter clothing is not included. The temperature can plummet, so arriving prepared with hats, mittens, insulated jackets, snow pants, and boots is essential. Without proper gear, the outdoor portions could be quite uncomfortable, especially if you’re not used to Arctic cold.

How does this experience compare value-wise?

For just over $200, you’re getting a comprehensive evening that combines outdoor adventure, cultural learning, and natural spectacle. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is a significant plus, especially in a remote setting like Whitehorse. For travelers who want a hassle-free way to experience the northern lights with some added activities, this tour offers a solid value.

The optional dog sled ride is a good way to elevate the experience for those interested in Yukon’s sled dog culture, but it’s an extra cost. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to compare other tours, but keep in mind that this one offers a balanced mix of activities and comfort.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and relaxation. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with winter conditions, as packing the right gear is recommended. Families with older children might find it appealing, especially if everyone enjoys a bit of snowshoeing and wildlife learning.

It’s also a good pick if you prefer a more intimate, guided experience rather than large, anonymous tours. And, if catching the auroras is a priority but comfort is equally important, this tour strikes a nice balance.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup via a climate-controlled Executive Shuttle, making it easy and comfortable to start your evening.

What do I need to bring for winter conditions?
You’ll need to bring winter clothing suitable for temperatures as low as -40°C, including hats, mittens, insulated jackets, snow pants, and winter boots, since these are not provided.

How long is the snowshoeing part?
The snowshoe trek is guided and takes you through Whitehorse’s peaceful trails, but the exact duration isn’t specified. It’s part of the overall 6-hour experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially if children are comfortable with snow and cold temperatures. Check with the provider if you have younger kids.

Can I see the northern lights every night?
Auroras depend on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. The tour is scheduled for prime viewing conditions, but clear skies are essential.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the dog sled ride included?
No, the 15-minute dog sled ride is optional and costs $75 CAD + GST, available onsite depending on availability.

How many people are in the group?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

What is the total duration?
The entire adventure lasts around 6 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending with hotel drop-off later that night.

If you’re after a well-rounded Yukon night that combines outdoor snow fun, cultural curiosity, and a chance to see the auroras from a cozy fireside setting, this tour hits many of the right notes. Just remember to come prepared for the cold, keep expectations flexible for aurora sightings, and enjoy the peaceful, magical atmosphere that only the Yukon can offer.