Yukon-Alaska Trip
The Grand Loop

Arrival in Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory in Canada’s Far North. The city grew out of the late 19th-century gold rush and witnessed the construction of the first overland roads and railroads to Alaska. You’re sure to be captivated by the epic history of the city and the province during your trip to the Yukon.

Transfer between Whitehorse Airport and Whitehorse.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Whitehorse.

A day exploring Whitehorse and its surroundings on foot, following the course of the legendary Yukon River.

In the morning, tour Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon and the nerve center of the gold rush of 1897 and 1898. You’ll stroll through the city’s iconic streets, with their historic facades, and discover the arts and traditions of Whitehorse’s first inhabitants, the Kwanlin Dun Indigenous peoples.

Next, head to the Yukon River, where you’ll find one of the remnants of the gold rush era: the SS Klondike, one of two stern-wheelers that served as supply vessels between Whitehorse and Dawson City. Your guide will bring the history of the gold rush to life as you tour this legendary structure. A little further along the riverbank, you’ll discover a dam where you can observe the salmon migration up close—the fish travel over 3,000 km before laying their eggs.

In the early afternoon, as you travel downriver south of Whitehorse, you’ll come to the breathtakingly beautiful Miles Canyon. Basalt lava flows have carved the rock in a raw and spectacular manner, offering a colorful panorama of the Yukon River. Open year-round, this hiking trail runs along the river and takes you to Schwatka Lake with the mountains in the background. The color of the water changes with the seasons, shifting from green to blue.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Whitehorse.

A Day of Canoeing on the Yukon River.

Who hasn’t dreamed of paddling down the Yukon River, which served as a waterway for many Klondike gold prospectors? Some set out on a 20-day adventure to travel the entire length of the river, passing shipwrecks and supply villages along the banks. We offer a condensed version of this epic journey on a 6-hour trip along the Yukon River.

Picnic on the riverbanks.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Whitehorse.

A day dedicated to wildlife viewing and relaxation at the Takhini Hot Springs.

This morning, you’ll visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and well-being of Yukon’s wildlife. There, you’ll see Arctic squirrels, arctic foxes with their thick white fur, musk oxen, moose, Thin Horn sheep, caribou, and even bison in their natural habitat. This place is open year-round, and their rehabilitation program is well worth a visit.

Next, head to the Takhini Hot Springs.

For over 100 years, these mineral springs have been a source of joy for Yukoners. Natural pools ranging from 36 to 42 degrees Celsius let you relax, summer or winter, amid idyllic scenery.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Whitehorse.

The route between Whitehorse and Dawson City, on the Klondike Highway.

The road runs largely along the Yukon River. Upon arrival in Dawson City, a legendary Gold Rush town that has retained much of its authentic Klondike-era character. The town enjoyed its heyday between 1896 and 1902, when its population reached 40,000, and was proclaimed the capital of the Yukon. It has retained all its old-world charm, with its period facades, casino, cabaret, bars, and hotels—and the streets are still unpaved.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Dawson City.

A half-day immersion in the heart of the gold rush era.

The day begins with a visit to Claim 33, one of the gold rush’smost iconic sites. Equipped with the proper gear, you’ll learn the basics of gold panning. You’re sure to find a few flecks of gold!

Next, visit Dawson City, a legendary town from that era. Its storefronts and streets have remained virtually unchanged for over a century. Finally, your guide will take you to the historic site of Dredge No. 4, which was used for gold mining, and will tell you the story of those wild years. Free time in the village of Dawson City.

Evening at Dawson City’s cabaret, Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall, which has remained true to the era. It was the first casino to open its doors in Canada. You’ll experience the atmosphere of a cabaret from days gone by, complete with French can-can dancers and period costumes.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Dawson City.

A Day of Hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park.

Nicknamed “The Patagonia of the North,” the park is full of wonders. It owes its name to Mount Tombstone, a granite peak towering over the mountain range that resembles a tombstone. It is the land of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nations, and it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parks in Western Canada.

Just getting there is quite an adventure! From Dawson City, you’ll take the famous Dempster Highway—a former dog-sled trail and legendary route connecting the Klondike Highway to Inuvik, a town located 200 km north of the Arctic Circle. The road is unpaved, so drive carefully.

The park is incredibly beautiful, pristine, and wild. The colors reach their peak in early fall, around the end of August, and, much like an Indian summer, the park is blanketed in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It is home to a rich variety of wildlife and a flora consisting of lichens, shrubs, and wildflowers.

You’ll then choose your hiking trail based on your skill level and preferences. Alpine lakes, rocky ridges, and 360-degree views of the desolate and wild Yukon—there are many options to choose from.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Dawson City.

The route between Dawson City and Tok, in Alaska.

You’ll start by driving along the legendary Top of the World Highway, taking in exceptional panoramic views, all the way to the U.S. border.

The Top of the World Highway, with its vast landscapes and breathtaking views, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful roads in Western Canada.

Traveling on a mix of paved and gravel roads, you’ll then journey through magnificent scenery to the village of Tok in the Tanana Valley.

Overnight in Tok.

The route between Tok and Fairbanks.

You’ll drive along the famous Alaska Highway, which connects Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, to Fairbanks. With a total length of 2,232 kilometers, it was built in 1942.

If you need to refuel or stock up on food, stop at Delta Junction, a popular rest stop. Finally, a few kilometers before you arrive, you can stop for a break at Chena Lake.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks is a very lively city in the winter. Known for its ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights, it is also the finish line for the Yukon Quest, the dog sled race that connects Whitehorse, Canada, to Fairbanks—a race renowned for its difficulty.

You can spend some time at a few museums, but the city itself isn’t particularly interesting—it’s essentially a major transportation hub. The route runs between Fairbanks and Denali National Park, the second-largest national park in the United States after Yellowstone. This park is home to the country’s highest peak, Mount Denali, at 6,194 meters. The park is strictly protected; only the first 25 kilometers of the park’s sole road are accessible to vehicles.

Along the way, don’t miss the picturesque Nenana Railroad Station, a designated historic landmark.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Fairbanks.

A day dedicated to exploring Denali National Park.

Access to Denali National Parkis strictly regulated. The only way to see its wildlife and get up close to its fantastic ecosystem is to board the bus chartered by park authorities. We offer the most comprehensive tour, which takes you up to 100 km inland, all the way to Stony Hill Overlook. The onboard guide will explain the park’s history and the various animals that live there, and on that day, you might even be lucky enough to spot some of them. This comprehensive tour allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the park’s distinctive landscapes, with views of the impressive mountain ranges.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Denali.

A day dedicated to exploring Denali National Park on a hike.

Your guide will select the best hikes suited to your skill level and preferences. You’ll enter the park via its only road access, Park Road. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife along the roadside here. Many hiking trails are accessible from this road and are poorly marked. Depending on your preferences, your guide will take you to admire landscapes featuring rivers, canyons, and glaciers, set against a backdrop of the tundra.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Denali.

The route between Denali National Park and Palmer, a small town near Anchorage.

Located on the banks of the Matanuska River and near the Matanuska Glacier, the town and its surroundings offer a magnificent playground for outdoor activities: hiking, glacier walking, fishing, kayaking…

Overnight stay at a hotel in Palmer.

A Day of Exploration in the Wasilla/Palmer/Hatcher Pass Region.

There are many wonderful things to do in this region—here’s a glimpse. We’ll then tailor our recommendations to your specific interests.

• Set out to conquer Hatcher Pass via the magnificent scenic mountain road, with its panoramic views of the Chugach Range. At the end of the road, discover the historic Independence Mine State Historic Site.
• Hike on the Matanuska Glacier. This glacier once extended all the way to the town of Palmer.
• Kayaking on the Matanuska River.
• Go salmon fishing. This is a very traditional activity in Alaska. You’ll set out to explore the rivers around Wasilla to learn all about king salmon, silver salmon, and chum salmon.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Palmer.

The road between Palmer and Seward.

The road winds through Kenai Fjords National Park. There are some fascinating viewpoints, and various stops will allow you to admire the beauty of nature, from fjords to glaciers.

In the heart of the Kenai Mountains lies the majestic Exit Glacier, which you’ll see on a short hike. The route continues toward Seward.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

A 2-day, 1-night stay at the end of the Resurrection Bay fjord in a self-contained lodge.

Meet at the Seward harbor to board a boat that will take you to your lodge, located on a private island. Nestled in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula on the shores of Resurrection Bay, this lodge is accessible only by boat or kayak and offers a true immersion in nature. Each yurt has been designed in complete harmony with nature, featuring a balcony with a stunning view of the sea. Orcas sometimes swim close to the lodge. The setting is charming and invites rest and relaxation.

On-site, in addition to enjoying the natural scenery from your private terrace, you’ll have access to a variety of activities you can enjoy at your own pace: kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife and bird watching.

Overnight stay in a yurt at Orca Island Cabins in the heart of Resurrection Bay.

Start your morning right at your lodge, balancing relaxation and adventure. After a night lulled by the sound of the lapping waves, you’ll admire the turquoise-hued bay with a cup of coffee in hand. You may spot marine mammals such as sea lions or, if you’re lucky, orcas. Numerous species of birds soar overhead, including eagles searching for salmon scraps, which are very abundant in the area.

In the morning, return to Seward by boat.

Drive from Seward to Homer.

Arrival in Homer, world-renowned for sport fishing and the halibut fishing capital.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer.

Set off on a day of adventure—by light aircraft and on foot—with the goal of spotting Alaska’s brown bears.

Depending on the day’s weather conditions, you’ll fly by light aircraft to one of the following areas:

• Katmai National Park and Preserve. More than 2,000 brown bears (grizzlies and Kodiak bears) live there, feeding mainly on salmon and seafood. This park also features more than 14 active volcanoes, and you’ll fly over some of them. The colorful panorama during the flight will amaze you.
• Lake Clark National Park and National Preserve, accessible only by small plane, reveals some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes. Nestled among mountains, the sea, and glaciers, the park is a prime location for wildlife viewing.

Wearing waterproof suits, you’ll set out with your pilot-guide—a brown bear expert—to get as close as possible to these animals, while maintaining a distance that doesn’t disturb them. Depending on where they are that day, you’ll watch them along the riverbank catching salmon or on the shoreline hunting for clams.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer.

A Day of Hiking in Kachemak Bay National Park.

Join a guided hike into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness to discover the region’s history and lush natural beauty, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, lakes, and alpine tundra. The area is secluded on the Kenai Peninsula, and its natural environment is pristine and well-preserved. As you wander along the forest trails, you’ll catch glimpses of the Kenai Mountains and the emerald-blue waters of the surrounding lakes. The region is home to large wildlife, such as lynx, bears, and Alaskan moose. In the cool waters, seals play among the floating icebergs.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer.

Drive between Homer and Whittier.

Ferry crossing between Whittier and Valdez.

Board one of theAlaska Marine Highway ferries for a long crossing. This day-long cruise will be a highlight of your trip to Alaska.

Take advantage of the observation decks and the rooms with large picture windows to admire the islands of Prince William Sound and the majestic Kenai Peninsula. It’s not uncommon to spot seals, as well as whales and other marine mammals.

This trip is a true adventure, and the Alaska Marine Highway’s aging fleet adds to the charm of the journey.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Valdez.

Explore the wildlife of Prince William Sound aboard a cruise ship.

The bay is one of the wildest and most pristine in the world. Its coastline is dotted with islands, fjords, and glaciers, offering numerous opportunities to observe nature and wildlife. We invite you to join us aboard a family-friendly vessel on a trip with two main goals: to get up close to the 51-km-long Columbia Glacier and to observe the local wildlife.

Prince William Sound is a sanctuary for many species of birds, such as the bald eagle. Marine wildlife is also very abundant; you’re sure to spot cetaceans like humpback whales, gray whales, or fin whales. Whether resting on the rocks or playing in the water, you’ll encounter otters, seals, sea lions, and Dall’s porpoises.

Finally, you’ll approach the majestic Columbia Glacier, which continues to move several dozen meters each year. Icefalls echo over the sea, while the array of glacial colors offers magnificent views.

Overnight in a hotel in Valdez.

A day exploring Valdez and the surrounding area.

Take advantage of this day to explore the magnificent Prince William Sound.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Valdez.

The route between Valdez and Tonsina. You’ll leave Prince William Sound and head inland.

Take a trip back in time to explore the former Kennecott copper mine, located in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and accessible by small plane.

You’ll begin this fabulous journey with a short flight from Chitina, on the border of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, to the village of McCarthy, home to 28 residents. The flight offers aerial views of the park, dotted with lakes, ice fields, forests, and Mount Elie, which rises majestically to 5,489 meters. The village retains the charm of yesteryear, from the era of the adjacent Kennecott copper mines, with its saloons and shops catering to miners. You’ll first visit the village’s historical museum, located in the old train depot. You’ll then take the shuttle to the Kennecott mines.

Overnight in a hotel in Tonsina.

Route between Tonsina and Tok.

You’ll travel along the magnificent Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the spectacular, scenic route as you head north through Alaska.

Arrival in Tok for a rest stop before crossing the Canadian border.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Tok.

Route between Tok, Alaska, and Haines Junction, in the Canadian Yukon.

The route follows the legendary Alaska Highway. You’ll never tire of these scenic, lightly trafficked roads that make the trip unforgettable. You’ll approach the majestic Kluane National Park, which invites contemplation and is perfect for adventure, and you’ll be able to see Canada’s highest mountain: Mount Logan, at 5,959 meters. The interplay of colors from the trees, glaciers, and mountains offers magnificent views.

Arrival at the lodge, nestled in the heart of nature.

Overnight stay at a hotel or lodge near Kluane National Park.

A day of exploration on a hike through Kluane National Park or its magnificent surroundings.

Your guide will meet you at the lodge, and together you’ll decide on the hike based on your preferences and hiking ability.

Kluane National Park is one of the Yukon’s gems, located near the border with Alaska. This vast park is teeming with glaciers and has remained largely untouched by development. It is home to Mount Logan*, at 5,959 meters, Canada’s highest peak. You’ll explore some of its hidden corners and secluded trails along picturesque lakes. The region is home to abundant and diverse wildlife, such as the brown bear. This day of hiking will allow you to immerse yourself in this incredible natural setting, dominated by the St. Elias Mountains and glacial lakes.

Overnight stay in a hotel or lodge near Kluane National Park.

Today, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Far North from your lodge or while strolling through the surrounding area, or choose one of the following options:

Rafting on the Dezadeah River.

You don’t need to be an expert to explore the rapids of the Dezadeah River—it’s completely safe and suitable for the whole family. During the trip, you’ll be able to observe the region’s wildlife: moose, bears, eagles, lynx, and other wild animals.

Along the way, we’ll take a short break around a campfire for some good-natured fun.

We adapt to the seasons: during the spring thaw, we paddle from where the river breaks through the ice, and in the height of summer, we can schedule the trip for late in the day so you can enjoy the midnight sun.

Overnight stay in a hotel or lodge near Kluane National Park.

Drive from Haines Junction to Whitehorse.

Return your rental car in Whitehorse.

On your own to Whitehorse Airport.

Connect to your international flight.