Arctic Day: Yukon Wildlife & Hot Springs Tour

Discover the Wilds of Yukon: Wildlife and Hot Springs Tour from Whitehorse

If you’re visiting Whitehorse and want a taste of authentic Yukon wilderness without committing to a full-day adventure, the Arctic Day: Yukon Wildlife & Hot Springs Tour offers a balanced blend of wildlife viewing and relaxation. Priced at around $170.70 per person, this half-day experience lasts approximately five hours—a perfect way to fit nature into your itinerary. Your adventure begins with a visit to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where animals like dall sheep, mountain goats, elk, musk-ox, moose, and lynx roam freely, and ends with a calming soak in the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, set against the rugged beauty of the countryside.

What we love about this tour is how knowledgeable guides bring the wildlife to life with fascinating stories and insights, making the experience both educational and memorable. The small group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the hot springs provide a well-deserved break and a chance to unwind in naturally warm waters while surrounded by stunning scenery.

One thing to consider is that towels and sandals are not included, so packing a few essentials is wise. Also, the tour is suitable for most travelers over the age of 19, but those with mobility issues might want to check the terrain of the preserve beforehand.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat after exploring Whitehorse. If you’re interested in Yukon’s native animals or simply want to relax in a natural setting, this experience offers a practical, engaging, and scenic escape.

Key Points

Wildlife in Natural Habitat: View native Yukon animals in expansive, rescue-style enclosures, not a zoo.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Enjoy two hours soaking in the outdoor Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs’ warm waters.
Expert Guides: Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable, enhancing your understanding of local wildlife.
Convenient Logistics: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience seamless.
Value for Money: Combines wildlife viewing, hot springs, and guided commentary at a reasonable price.
Ideal for those with limited time but wanting a full flavor of Yukon wilderness.

A Deep Dive into the Yukon Wildlife & Hot Springs Experience

While in Whitehorse, here are other experiences we've covered

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at 1:30 pm at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse, with pickup included, simplifying your planning. You’ll spend roughly one hour and forty-five minutes at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, followed by a two-hour visit to the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. The total of about five hours makes this an accessible outing for most travelers, especially those who want an efficient yet fulfilling dose of Yukon nature.

Visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve

The highlight of the morning is the visit to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. This isn’t a zoo—these animals are in large, naturalistic enclosures, many of which resemble their native habitats. According to reviewers, the preserve is “huge with very large areas for all the animals”, including cliffs for mountain goats and wetlands for moose. The emphasis on rescue and care is evident and adds a layer of authenticity to your experience.

Our guide, often praised as “very kind” and well-informed, will help you spot the animals and explain their habits and roles in Yukon’s ecology. Expect to see a variety of species, each with their own stories. The preserve offers excellent photo opportunities, especially for those eager to capture Yukon’s wildlife in natural settings.

The Hot Springs Experience

After the wildlife tour, you’ll head to the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, a nearby outdoor hot springs complex. The pools are set amidst the wilderness, providing a striking contrast between the cool outdoor air and the warm mineral waters. Many reviews highlight how “the hot springs are a big WOW”, and how relaxing it is to soak while surrounded by the natural landscape.

The hot springs are a perfect way to unwind after the morning’s activity, and the two-hour window gives you ample time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps even take some photos. Remember, towels and sandals are not included, so bring your own if you prefer extra comfort.

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is by comfortable bus, with a small group size—up to 20 travelers—which fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere. The guide’s bilingual skills are a bonus if you’re a multilingual traveler, ensuring clear communication.

While you're exploring Whitehorse, here are other experiences we've looked into

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

Feedback from past participants paints a positive picture. One reviewer called the guide “very knowledgeable” and appreciated the “easy drive” and “timing as promised”. Another reviewer remarked that the wildlife preserve was “beautiful” and that the tour was “well worth the time”.

Others appreciated the educational aspect, with comments like “gave us a lot of information about animals”, and the hot springs being “a big highlight”. There are some mixed opinions, such as one critic who felt the preserve was “nothing more than a zoo”, but it’s clear that most find the wildlife in their naturalistic settings to be a rewarding experience.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers great value, remember that towels and sandals aren’t included, so packing these is advisable. The tour is designed for travelers over 19 years old, making it suitable for adults and older teens. The timing and logistics are streamlined, but arriving on time for pickup is important because the schedule is tight.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals most to those wanting a compact but meaningful experience of Yukon’s wildlife and wilderness. If you enjoy nature photography, wildlife observation, or simply relaxing in hot springs, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s particularly suited for visitors who prefer guided tours with strong local expertise, as the guides are praised for their knowledge.

It’s also ideal if you’re short on time but want to see a broad swath of Yukon’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or education. Families with older teenagers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat will find this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Yukon Wildlife & Hot Springs Tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife observation, scenic relaxation, and cultural insight. The small group size and expert guide make it personal and engaging, ensuring you’re not just a tourist but an active participant in discovering Yukon’s natural charm. The combination of large, humane wildlife enclosures and the soothing warmth of the hot springs creates an experience that’s both invigorating and restful.

While it may not satisfy those looking for a rugged, adventure-packed day, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic introduction to Yukon’s wildlife and landscapes with a touch of luxury. The experience’s value for money—given the included admissions and guided insights—makes it a practical pick for anyone wanting a taste of the North with minimal fuss.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and stunningly scenic outing, this tour fits the bill perfectly. You’ll leave with new knowledge, memorable photos, and perhaps a little more appreciation for the wilderness that makes Yukon so special.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Whitehorse hotels, making it very convenient.

How long is the wildlife visit?
Expect approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.

Do I need to bring my own towels?
Yes, towels and sandals are not included, so bring your own if you’d like extra comfort at the hot springs.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. The preserve offers great photo opportunities, and guides can help spot animals for better shots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for travelers over 19 years old, so check if your family members meet that age requirement.

How accessible is the terrain?
Most of the wildlife enclosures are accessible for typical visitors, but those with mobility challenges should inquire beforehand.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs around $170.70 per person, which covers the wildlife preserve, hot springs admission, and transportation.

Is there anything I should bring?
Besides towels and sandals, bring water, a camera, and layers suitable for outdoor weather.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Yukon wildlife and hot springs tour strikes a compelling balance between adventure and relaxation, making it well worth considering if you want a true taste of Northern wilderness without the fuss.