Whitehorse, the capital of Canada’s Yukon Territory, sits along the Yukon River and serves as the cultural, economic, and transportation heart of the North. Its history is closely tied to the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, when prospectors passed through the area on their way to Dawson City. That frontier legacy remains visible in preserved buildings, riverfront landmarks, and a strong local pride rooted in resilience and self-reliance.
The surrounding landscape is vast and dramatic, defined by boreal forests, wide valleys, and distant mountain ranges. Miles Canyon and Whitehorse Rapids offer striking river scenery just outside the city, while nearby wilderness areas provide opportunities for hiking, paddling, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. The Yukon River continues to shape the city’s identity, both as a historic transportation route and as a central feature of daily life.
Whitehorse has a relaxed, grounded atmosphere that balances small-city living with deep wilderness access. For visitors, Whitehorse offers a rare blend of northern history, living culture, and immediate access to some of Canada’s most expansive landscapes.