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Whitehorse is named after the rapids on the Yukon River that reminded gold prospectors of the 'flowing manes of albino Appaloosas'.
It was built by prospectors who flooded into the region at the height of the Klondike gold rush.
They set up camp after surviving the arduous Chilkoot Trail from Skagway, and before negotiating the perilous waters of the Yukon River and Miles Canyon, that still blocked their route to the goldfields.
The paddle steamer S.S. Klondike
Today Whitehorse is an easier place to reach and, with 23,000 inhabitants, is by far the largest town in the Yukon. Urban highlights include tours of the S.S. Klondike, one of only two surviving paddle steamers, Old Log Church Museum, the MacBride Museum and the Yukon Brewing Company.
The area’s mineral wealth might be exhausted, but the surrounding mountain wilderness, speckled with tranquil lakes, is beautiful and wholly unspoiled: it will make you want to put on your boots and explore.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Whitehorse by contacting one of our Canada specialists
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01993 838 92501993 838 700
- Make an enquiry
Suggested itinerary featuring Whitehorse
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Whitehorse, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Whitehorse
- Marsh Lake 29 miles away
- Kluane National Park 142 miles away
- The Yukon 144 miles away
- Mayo 202 miles away
- Keno City 222 miles away
- Dawson City 271 miles away
Photos of Whitehorse
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![Enjoying the Yukon night sky]()
Enjoying the Yukon night sky -
![Trading Post, Northern Lights viewing facility]()
Trading Post, Northern Lights viewing facility -
![Aurora Borealis above Trading Post]()
Aurora Borealis above Trading Post -
![Aurora Borealis]()
Aurora Borealis -
![Trading Post, Whitehorse]()
Trading Post, Whitehorse -
![Trading Post]()
Trading Post -
![Northern Lights Resort & Spa]()
Northern Lights Resort & Spa -
![Whitehorse, Yukon]()
Whitehorse, Yukon
Our expert guides to exploring Whitehorse
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Whitehorse, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Whitehorse at its best.
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Honeymoons in Canada ![Lake Louise]()
Honeymoons in Canada
Honeymoons in Canada
Country specialist, Caroline, picks some of her top places to stay and things to do on honeymoon in Canada. Her highlights include where to spot Canada’s wildlife, taking a food tour in Vancouver, finding seclusion in the Rockies and staying on an authentic ranch.
Read this guide -
Self-drive holidays in Canada ![Jasper National Park]()
Self-drive holidays in Canada
Self-drive holidays in Canada
Whether you choose a route circuiting western Canada’s renowned mountains, glaciers and lakes, or you’d rather go off-grid exploring the traditional fishing villages and coastal drives of the Maritimes, Canada’s well-maintained, easily navigable roads make it an excellent self-drive destination.
Read this guide
Accommodation choices for Whitehorse
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Whitehorse. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Inn on the Lake, Marsh Lake]()
Inn on the Lake
Whitehorse -
![Edgewater Hotel Whitehorse exterior]()
Edgewater Hotel
Whitehorse -
![Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Whitehorse]()
Northern Lights Resort & Spa
Whitehorse
