Open Fire Aurora Viewing and Snowshoeing Adventure in Whitehorse

Planning a winter trip to Whitehorse, Yukon? We’ve come across a tour that promises a true Yukon experience: snowshoeing through peaceful trails, a visit to Canada’s largest wildlife museum, and an unforgettable aurora borealis display. While we haven’t personally done this tour, the details and reviews highlight its authenticity and adventurous spirit — perfect for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor activity and culture, with a touch of magic in the night sky.

What really catches our attention are the inclusive nature of the experience, the cozy fireside setting, and the opportunity to add a dog sled ride for extra excitement. However, it’s worth noting that participants need to bring their own winter clothing suited for -40°C, which is an important consideration for anyone unfamiliar with Yukon winters. This tour is ideal for those craving an authentic Arctic evening, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and the thrill of spotting the northern lights.

Good To Know

• Authentic Yukon Experience: Combines snowshoeing, wildlife, and aurora viewing for a well-rounded adventure.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a hassle-free way to explore Whitehorse after dark.
• Cultural Insight: Visit to Canada’s largest Wildlife Museum adds a fascinating local touch.
• A Perfect Mix: Outdoor activity + cozy fireside + optional dog sled ride for added fun.
• Weather Preparedness: Requires participants to supply their own heavy winter gear.
• Value for Money: At $219.66, it offers a comprehensive evening experience, though extra costs like the dog sled ride are on top.

What to Expect from This Yukon Adventure

This tour is structured to give you a full evening of engaging activities, all wrapped into around six hours. It begins with a hotel pickup via a climate-controlled shuttle, setting a comfortable tone from the start. Whitehorse can get very cold in winter, and the shuttle ensures you stay warm during transit and between activities, which is crucial for enjoying the experience fully.

Snowshoeing in Whitehorse’s Scenic Trails

The adventure kicks off with a guided snowshoe walk through Whitehorse’s tranquil, snow-covered trails. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and Yukon history. Expect a moderate trek suitable for most fitness levels, and don’t worry if you’re new to snowshoeing — the equipment is included. Reviewers have appreciated the peacefulness of the trails and the opportunity to connect with nature in a quiet, pristine setting.

Scenic Drive to Carcross & Wildlife Museum

After your snowshoeing, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic 52-minute drive to Carcross. This charming town is famed for its stunning views and is a lovely spot to stretch your legs. Once there, the group visits Canada’s largest Wildlife Museum, which houses lifelike taxidermy from mammoths to the world’s largest mounted polar bear. Visitors find this part particularly interesting, especially those curious about Arctic animals and local wildlife. The museum is noted for its educational value and the opportunity for some great photo moments.

The Highlight: Aurora Borealis & Fireside Experience

Come evening, everyone gathers in an open-air fireside setting called “Gateway to the Light.” Here, you’ll settle around a cozy campfire with hot cocoa, gourmet chili, and charcuterie — a perfect way to warm up while waiting for the magic above. The guides and staff are knowledgeable about the aurora, and many guests describe this as truly mesmerizing, with waves of green, pink, and violet dancing across the sky. Since the aurora is a natural phenomenon, lighting conditions depend on weather and solar activity, but reviews suggest the chance of a sighting is good with clear skies.

Optional Dog Sled Ride

For those seeking extra adrenaline, the tour offers a 15-minute dog sled ride with real Yukon Quest sled dogs, available onsite for an additional fee ($75 CAD + GST). Reviewers highlight that the dogs are friendly and well-trained, and the experience is a highlight for dog lovers. Keep in mind this is an optional add-on, so plan accordingly if you’re eager for this aspect.

Final Drop-off and Overall Experience

After a memorable night under the northern lights, you’ll be returned to your hotel, completing the smooth, well-organized experience. The combination of outdoor activity, cultural insights, and the awe of the aurora creates a balanced Yukon adventure suitable for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $219.66 per person, the price reflects a comprehensive evening that covers transportation, gear, meals, and guided experiences. The inclusion of snowshoeing equipment, a visit to a significant wildlife museum, and drinks and snacks at the fireside make this a solid value for those wanting a full-sensory Yukon experience.

The extra cost for the dog sled ride is reasonable considering it’s a 15-minute ride with genuine Yukon Quest sled dogs. If you’re a dog lover or looking for a unique, adrenaline-pumping addition, it’s well worth considering.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring warm clothing: The tour necessitates winter gear for temperatures as low as -40°C. Pack insulated jackets, hats, mittens, snow boots, and snow pants.
• Book in advance: As the tour runs with a maximum of 24 travelers, spots can fill quickly, especially during peak aurora season.
• Check the weather: Since the aurora is weather-dependent, clear skies are essential. The tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.
• Arrive prepared for outdoor conditions: The fireside is outdoors, so dress warmly to sit comfortably while gazing at the sky.
• Consider the optional dog sled ride: If it appeals to you, book early as onsite availability can be limited.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off, snowshoeing equipment, dinner like chili and charcuterie, hot beverages, and the fireside aurora viewing.

Do I need my own winter gear?
Yes. The tour does not include winter clothing, so participants should bring hats, mittens, insulated jackets, snow boots, and snow pants suitable for -40°C weather.

How long is the snowshoe trek?
The snowshoeing is guided and takes place on peaceful, scenic trails around Whitehorse, though the exact duration isn’t specified. Expect a moderate trek suitable for most fitness levels.

Can I see the northern lights every night?
The aurora borealis depends on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. However, the guide team will do their best to find a clear night for viewing.

Is the tour suitable for children or less mobile guests?
Most travelers can participate, but snowshoeing on uneven trails might be challenging for some. It’s best to assess individual mobility and outdoor comfort levels.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Open Fire Aurora Viewing and Snowshoeing Adventure offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor activity, cultural exposure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full Yukon evening experience that combines physical activity, wildlife appreciation, and the chance to see the iconic northern lights in a cozy, fireside setting.

While the need to bring your own heavy winter gear is a consideration, the overall experience delivers a genuine taste of the Yukon’s wilderness and culture. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this tour provides an authentic, memorable way to connect with Whitehorse’s rugged, spectacular environment.

If you’re eager to explore Whitehorse in a way that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is worth considering. It’s ideal for those who want to chase the aurora, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy a memorable Yukon night under the stars.