How long does it take to get to the Yukon?

There are 4 – 5 daily scheduled flights from southern Canada into Yukon in winter; 5 – 7 in summer as well as seasonal direct flights from Frankfurt, Germany. Flights from Edmonton-Calgary and Vancouver take about 2 ½ hours. Those who would like a more leisurely sight-seeing trip may drive the Alaska Highway. The distance from Edmonton to Whitehorse is 2010 km – about 2 – 3 days on the road. Visitors may also arrive via ship or ferry to Skagway, Alaska, and then take the spectacular road trip to Whitehorse – about 180 km.

Is the Yukon always cold?

The Yukon has a semi-arid climate and its long summer days bring relatively warm temperatures, frequently reaching 25oC or more. Many days are downright hot! Winter temperatures in the Yukon are generally colder than in southern Canadian, although not much different from prairie cities. In fact, the Territory’s dry air makes winter temperatures more tolerable than higher degrees in some of the country’s more humid areas. The average temperature for Whitehorse in January is -18.7o C. Only rarely does the city experience the fabled -50s!

Does the Yukon have lots of bugs?

It is true that there are blackflies and mosquitos in the Yukon, as in many other parts of Canada. Mosquitos are most prevalent from from June to August and blackflies are more bothersome in August and September. These insects are most likely to be a nuisance in back-country areas and after heavy rains. On the other hand, most communities carry out organic insect-control programs. Carry bug-repellant in case your need it. If you are visiting the Yukon in spring, fall or winter – no worries!

Are there any large stores in the Yukon?

Many visitors to the Yukon are surprised to find familiar stores and food service outlets (along, of course, with made-in-the-Yukon unique shops and restaurants). Canadian Tire, Super Store, Wallmart, Home Depot, Mark’s Work Warehouse, Shoppers’ Drug Mart, Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Boston Pizza are only some of the well-known names you will find in Whitehorse. Be sure to check out our of list of members for a broad range of services available in the Yukon.