Whitehorse: Aurora Viewing with Wild Adventure Yukon – An In-Depth Review
If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that combines outdoor adventure with the awe of the Northern Lights, Wild Adventure Yukon’s Aurora Viewing tour in Whitehorse is worth considering. For $183 per person, this 6-hour experience offers a variety of highlights: a guided snowshoe trek through snowy wilderness, a visit to Northern Canada’s largest wildlife museum, and a chance to see the northern lights from a choice of cozy, heated dome or open-air seating.
What we love most about this tour is how it blends nature, wildlife, and an unforgettable celestial show into a single outing. The scenic drive from Whitehorse to Carcross offers stunning mountain vistas that make the journey just as memorable as the activities. Plus, the option to watch the Aurora from a semi-private dome with panoramic glass feels like a touch of luxury in the Arctic wilderness.
A potential consideration is the weather. Because this tour takes place in extreme winter conditions where temperatures can plummet to -40°C, you’ll want to be prepared with proper winter clothing. The tour provides emergency warm gear if needed, but bringing your own layers will make the experience more comfortable.
This adventure suits travelers who are keen on outdoor activities combined with cultural insights and are comfortable in cold weather. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of nature, wildlife, and a spectacular celestial show, especially if you’re interested in authentic Yukon experiences rather than just sightseeing.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- All-in-one Yukon experience blending snowshoeing, wildlife, and Aurora viewing
- Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Flexible Aurora viewing options: heated dome or open fire pit for different atmospheres
- Family-friendly and suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy winter sports
- Includes cultural insight through a visit to a large wildlife museum
- Weather considerations: be prepared for very cold temperatures
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Whitehorse, ensuring you won’t need to worry about navigation in the snow. The climate-controlled shuttle makes the early part of the experience stress-free, especially after a day of travel. We appreciate how this service is available within 2 km of Whitehorse Airport or along the Klondike Highway, making it accessible for most visitors.
Once aboard, the scenic drive to Carcross is approximately 52 minutes, yet it’s more than just transportation. Along the way, you’re treated to stunning mountain vistas—a reminder of why Yukon’s wilderness is so captivating. We loved the way the landscape framed the journey, setting the mood for the adventure ahead.
Arriving in Carcross, you’ll explore Northern Canada’s largest wildlife museum. This part of the tour offers an educational and fun experience, especially if you’re interested in the region’s fauna. The museum features everything from Ice Age giants to modern beasts, including a full-sized woolly mammoth and the world’s largest polar bear. As one reviewer noted, “The museum was surprisingly impressive, and it added a lot of context to the region’s wildlife.”
After soaking in the exhibits, the highlight of the evening begins: Aurora viewing. You get to choose between two options:
Romance Under the Aurora (Premium)
- Setting: a semi-private heated dome with a panoramic glass ceiling
- Experience: a luxurious, cozy environment to watch the lights
- Food & drink: gourmet charcuterie, Yukon chilli, and hot chocolate
- Ideal for: those wanting a more intimate, comfortable experience with a touch of luxury
Gateway to the Light (Standard)
- Setting: a crackling fire in an open-air communal seating area
- Experience: more authentic, with the chance to see the Aurora dance overhead
- Food & drink: chilli, charcuterie, and cocoa
- Ideal for: those craving a traditional Yukon outdoor experience
From either setting, you can expect to witness waves of color streaking across the Arctic sky, an experience that truly defies description. Reviewers frequently mention how stunning the northern lights are, with one noting, “Watching the Aurora from the dome was surreal, and the colors seemed to go on forever.”
Finally, after a memorable night, you’ll be taken back to your accommodation in Whitehorse or Carcross, ending the tour with a warm, comfortable ride. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it easy to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy This Tour Offers Great Value
While $183 may seem like a significant investment, the tour packs in several unforgettable moments—nature, wildlife, cultural insight, and the chance to see the Aurora. The guided snowshoe trek is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a peaceful walk through snow-covered trails that highlight Yukon’s pristine wilderness. The museum visit adds educational value, making it a well-rounded experience.
The Aurora viewing options are particularly noteworthy. The luxury dome grants unmatched comfort and intimacy, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. Meanwhile, the fire pit experience offers a more rugged Yukon feel, appealing to those who want to connect with the wilderness more directly.
The tour’s inclusions—hotel pickup, scenic drive, museum entrance, hot chocolate, and gourmet snacks—contribute to its overall value, especially considering the long winter nights and opportunities to see the Northern Lights are rare and fleeting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who love being outdoors in cold weather, are interested in wildlife or cultural attractions, and want a comfortable, guided way to see the northern lights. It’s particularly appealing for those visiting Whitehorse for a few days and looking to add a memorable, well-organized activity to their itinerary. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy winter sports and scenic drives, this tour offers something for all.
People with health issues or mobility concerns should note the cold temperatures and outdoor elements; the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with heart problems. Be prepared with appropriate thermal clothing to ensure you stay warm during the outdoor Aurora viewing.
The Sum Up
The Whitehorse Aurora Viewing with Wild Adventure Yukon delivers a balanced mix of outdoor fun, cultural insight, and celestial spectacle. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate authentic wilderness experiences paired with comfort, and who are eager to witness the magic of the Northern Lights in a setting that caters to both adventure and relaxation.
Whether you choose the luxurious dome or the open-air firepit, you’ll leave with lasting memories of Yukon’s stunning winter landscape and its mesmerizing sky show. With well-thought-out logistics, inclusive amenities, and a focus on making the experience accessible and enjoyable, this tour stands out as a worthwhile addition to a Yukon itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided snowshoe trek, scenic drive to Carcross, wildlife museum visit, Aurora viewing experience, and snacks like charcuterie, chili, and hot chocolate.
How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a full but manageable evening activity.
What should I bring for the tour?
Be sure to bring warm clothing, snow gear, weather-appropriate layers, thermal wear, and winter sports gear. The tour also offers emergency warm clothing if needed.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be comfortable in cold weather and able to handle outdoor activities. Check with the provider if you’re unsure about age restrictions.
Can I customize my Aurora viewing experience?
Yes, you can choose between the semi-private heated dome or the open fire-pit seating, depending on your preference for comfort or outdoor ambiance.
What if the weather is extremely cold or conditions are poor?
The tour is prepared for very cold temperatures, with emergency gear available. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and dress accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you’re looking for a Yukon adventure that combines nature, culture, and one of the most impressive natural phenomena, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable journey. It’s a fantastic way to see the northern lights while enjoying the quiet beauty of Yukon’s winter landscape, all wrapped in comfort and guided expertise.
You can check availability for your dates here: