Whitehorse, the rugged heart of the Yukon, offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Canada. Its location makes it a natural hub for full-day tours that showcase incredible wilderness, mountain vistas, and cultural sites. We particularly like tours that combine scenic beauty with local stories—these allow you to experience the North without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For instance, the Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour takes you right into a UNESCO World Heritage Site, giving a true taste of untouched wilderness. Meanwhile, the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour simplifies the logistics, making it easier to enjoy this stunning landscape in just one day. If hiking is more your speed, the Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour offers an active day exploring lakes, deserts, and mountain trails—all with local flavor.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we review three top full-day tours in Whitehorse. Whether you’re after a scenic drive, cultural insights, or a full day of hiking, you’ll find options here. We compare their highlights, price points, and what makes each one special, to help you choose the perfect adventure.
1. Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour
At number one, the Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour earns its top spot with an impressive 4.7/5 rating from 10 reviews. Priced at $226 per person, this nine-hour experience is a deep dive into one of Canada’s most awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour explores untouched wilderness that features the second-largest ice field on Earth, offering spectacular photo opportunities of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and vast valleys.
The guide’s storytelling enriches the experience as you learn about the Northern culture and traditions that still thrive in this remote landscape. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on both natural beauty and cultural context—it’s not just sightseeing, but a meaningful connection to the land and its people. The itinerary includes a visit to the Kluane Visitor Centre, some short hikes, and plenty of time for photography. Guests consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and the knowledgeable guide who shares stories about the park’s geology and indigenous history.
Bottom line: If you want an immersive experience with a healthy dose of nature and culture, this tour offers excellent value for its comprehensive coverage and expert guide.
2. Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour | full day
Next is the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour, priced at roughly $233 for nine hours, making it a slightly more expensive but equally well-rounded option. This tour is perfect if you prefer a stress-free day trip with a focus on visiting key landmarks. It’s especially suited for those with limited time who want to see the highlights without the logistics hassle.
You’ll start with a scenic drive from Whitehorse and stop at the Da Ku Cultural Center, where exhibits tell the story of the Champagne and Aishihik people. From there, the tour takes you on a short hike at the Rock Glacier Trail—a favorite for panoramic mountain and lake views—weather permitting. Finally, a visit to Kathleen Lake caps the day, showcasing its crystal waters and mountain backdrop.
Guests rave about the stunning vistas and informative commentary. One reviewer called the guide “very courteous and professional,” and appreciated the balance of sightseeing and cultural insight. The tour’s structure makes it ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of Kluane’s grandeur combined with a bit of Yukon Indigenous history.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value for those short on time and eager to tick several must-see spots off their list without the need to organize multiple stops.
3. Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour
Finally, for those who love active exploration, the Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour provides roughly six and a half hours of hiking through some of the most scenic spots in the Yukon. Costing about $209, this tour is tailored for avid hikers with at least moderate fitness.
Your day begins with a stop at Emerald Lake, known for its vivid green waters, before heading to Carcross, a charming historic village. The highlight is hiking the Mountain Hero Trail—originally built as the Sam McGee Trail—where you’ll see panoramic views of Southern Lakes, learn about the area’s mining history, and enjoy the tranquility of this remote region. The tour also takes you to the Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, for a quick photo stop.
While reviews are not available yet, the itinerary’s focus on moderate hikes and diverse landscapes makes it appealing for active travelers. The inclusion of snacks and bottled water adds convenience, and small group size ensures a less crowded experience.
Bottom line: If you’re physically active and want an immersive day in nature, this tour offers a balanced mix of lakes, deserts, and mountain scenery.
$208.81 per person
How to Choose Your Whitehorse Full-Day Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you’re fascinated by wildlife, glaciers, and indigenous culture, the Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour is your best bet. For a hands-off yet comprehensive experience that hits key landmarks, the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour offers great value. For active travelers who want to hike and explore at a steady pace, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour delivers a full day outdoors.
Practical considerations include your budget, fitness level, and time constraints. For example, hikers will love the active trail options, while those pressed for time may prefer the scenic highlights of the second tour. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Whitehorse offers a wide range of full-day tours that cater to different interests—whether you want to learn about wilderness and culture, or prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day. The Kluane National Park: Full Day Tour is perfect for those craving a deep dive into wild landscapes, while the Arctic Day: Kluane National Park Tour balances sightseeing with cultural insights. For active adventurers, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour offers a memorable day on foot.
No matter which you choose, it’s wise to book early, especially during the summer months when Whitehorse’s scenery is at its best. These tours promise a rewarding glimpse into the rugged beauty and unique culture of the Yukon—experiences worth making time for.