Northern Lights and Beyond in Canada's Yukon with Kids

There aren’t many places more remote or wild in this world than Canada’s Yukon Territory. Situated east of Alaska, this is a frontier country full of glaciers, abundant wildlife, amazing outdoor adventures, and an opportunity to see the magnificent northern lights. Families with a love of the great outdoors and keen to kick back in one of the purest places on Earth will relish a trip to the Yukon. Here’s a look at the best experiences in Canada’s Yukon with kids.

This website sometimes receives compensation, hosted travel, or products related to blog posts. This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to consumers. As an Amazon Associate, we earn money from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Mountains and Glaciers

Canada’s highest mountains lie in the Yukon, inside Kluane National Park and Reserve. The lower valleys and slopes are covered by forests of white spruce, trembling aspen and balsam poplar. This greenbelt is a haven for many species of wildlife.

Expect amazing aerial views from flight seeing tours of Kluane ~ Northern Lights and Beyond in Canada's Yukon with Kids — Expect amazing aerial views from flight-seeing tours of Kluane National Park in Canada’s Yukon (Photo credit: Jody Robbins)

Catch a glimpse of Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak on a flight-seeing tour with Kluane National Park and Reserve. During your one-hour scenic adventure, pilot John Ostashek will point out highlights, including glaciers where the ice can be up to a kilometer thick. Keep your eyes peeled for dall sheep and other northern mammals, too.

Northern Lights

Witnessing northern lights is on most travelers’ wish lists when visiting the Yukon. When the lights are out, it is as simple as looking into the clear night sky and taking in the luminous arcs sweeping across the sky.

Typically, the dazzling light show begins around midnight. Because of this, it’s best to book into a lodge with aurora views or opt for a tour. With their heated tents, roaring outdoor fires and friendly guides, Northern Tales is a good option. Tripods are provided and they’ll patiently walk you through all the steps necessary to adjust your camera to the correct settings.

Dall sheep are abundant in Kluane National Park ~ Northern Lights and Beyond in Canada's Yukon with Kids — Dall sheep are abundant in Kluane National Park (Photo credit: Tourism Yukon)

Yukon Wildlife

It’s pretty likely you’ll spot lots of wildlife along the roadside during a summer visit to the Yukon. But you just never know what’s going to be on display and for that reason, it’s worth visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. Here you’ll come face to face with Yukon animals such as the mighty wood bison, the largest mammal in North America. Adorable arctic foxes, lynx, caribou and rare muskoxen are found here, too. Climb aboard a bus for a 1.5-hour tour with a wildlife guide or you can walk the trails on your own.

Dog-Sledding

In the winter months, there’s no better way to explore the vast Yukon landscape than by mushing through the wilderness. Half-day dog-sledding tours with Cathers Wilderness Adventures are the way to go for active families. You’ll zoom across frozen lakes and possibly through the forest driving your own sled.

Yes, even children can drive the team! This patient family-run outfitter will set up the sled with one or two huskies, depending on the child’s size. After the lesson, children as young as 5 years old can experience the thrill of leading their own team. If you prefer to snuggle up in the sled, you can settle in and let someone else do the driving.

dog sled tours — Mush from the comfort of the sled or drive your own team! (Photo credit: Jody Robbins)

Where to Eat in the Yukon with Kids

The Wheelhouse offers a tasty children’s menu that goes beyond boring chicken fingers and grilled cheese. Northern cuisine such as elk, bison, and arctic char are served up in a palatable way for mini gourmets.

Another great option is Baked Cafe & Bakery. This cheery eatery offers home-baked goodies, fancy coffees, and light lunches.

All guest rooms are unique, quaint and cozy at Inn On The Lake in the Yukon ~ Northern Lights and Beyond in Canada's Yukon with Kids — All guest rooms are unique, quaint and cozy at Inn On The Lake in the Yukon (Photo credit: Jody Robbins)

Yukon Accommodations

Nestled in the woods outside Whitehorse, Inn On The Lake makes a lovely option for families. This lodge looks swish, but it’s surprisingly affordable. This is especially true if you don’t go the all-inclusive route. Their all-inclusive is a good value, though, if you require snow gear, are interested in excursions, and want to sample their divine cuisine.

Opt for 1- or 2-bedroom suites inside the main lodge or get your own cabin complete with hot tub, kitchen and living room. The food here showcases as much Yukon and Canadian product as possible and meals can be customized to suit particular tastes. Best is, when the Northern Lights are out, you’ll be able to view them directly from the lodge.