Are you dreaming about canoeing the Yukon River? Along the fast-flowing waters of Yukon’s infamous waterway, paddling the Yukon River is one of the best ways to get to know the territory’s vast wilderness. With several route options, you can choose what works best for you and have an incredible experience on the water. What are you waiting for? Don’t miss your opportunity to plan a Yukon River canoe trip!
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Last summer, I drove my Subaru Outback across Canada from New Brunswick to Alberta. After a few weeks in Calgary, I made my way up through British Columbia along the Alaska Highway to Whitehorse, Yukon. As my first-ever visit to Canada’s north, I loved exploring the various landscapes of the Yukon and couldn’t have dreamed of a better Yukon River canoe trip. If you’re an outdoor lover, consider canoeing the Yukon River from Whitehorse to Carmacks. You won’t regret it!
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About Canoeing the Yukon River — Whitehorse to Carmacks
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Location:Yukon Territory, Canada
Distance:300 km point-to-point
Difficulty:Moderate (due to length)
Time:5 – 7 days
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs should remain on a leash.
Campsites:Various campsites along the route
Reservations:No campsite reservations required
Portages: No portages required
Season: End of May to mid-September
Features: Canoeing the Yukon River from Whitehorse to Carmacks is a spectacular outdoor adventure, featuring fast-flowing river waters and the massive Lake Laberge that will take most paddlers a couple of days to complete. Choose from multiple backcountry campsites along the way, each offering unique views of the wilderness and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
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Canoeing the Yukon River FAQs
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Q. Where is the Yukon River located?
A. The Yukon River flows from British Columbia, through the Yukon Territory, and into Alaska, eventually emptying into the Bering Sea. At approximately 3,190 kilometres (1,980 miles) long, the mighty Yukon is the third-longest river in North America.
Q. What is the best canoe route on the Yukon River?
A. There are multiple canoe routes on the Yukon River. Popular options include paddling from Whitehorse to Carmacks, Carmacks to Dawson City, or the full length from Whitehorse to Dawson City.
Q. How many days do I need to paddle the Yukon River?
A. Your trip duration on the Yukon River depends on your starting point and paddling pace. Canoeing from Whitehorse to Dawson City typically takes between 10 to 14 days. Canoeing from Whitehorse to Carmacks can be done in 5 to 7 days.
Q. Are there shorter trip options for canoeing the Yukon River?
A. Yes, there are shorter paddling routes along the Yukon River. One popular option is the Lake Laberge to Carmacks section, which can take between 4 to 5 days to complete. If you’re looking for a day trip, consider canoeing the Yukon River from Whitehorse to the Takhini River (approximately 20 kilometres).
Q. How difficult is canoeing the Yukon River?
A. Paddling the Yukon River is generally considered moderately challenging. The river features a mix of calm stretches and faster-moving sections, with no significant rapids between Whitehorse and Carmacks. The Five Fingers Rapids (class II) are the only notable rapids between Whitehorse and Dawson City. Paddling the length of Lake Laberge (50 km) is another challenge while canoeing the Yukon River. Be prepared for weather conditions to change and storms to roll in on this massive lake.
Q. Are there any portage routes on the Yukon River?
A. There are no portage routes required between Whitehorse and Dawson City. However, it’s important to be prepared for occasional obstacles such as downed trees or shallow sections, particularly in lower water conditions.
Q. Do I need to make a reservation for campsites?
A. Official campgrounds are rare along the Yukon River between Whitehorse to Dawson City. When paddling from Whitehorse to Carmacks, staying overnight at Coal Mine Campground is the only formal reservation needed. Paddlers usually camp in established and unofficial sites along the riverbanks.
Q. How much canoe tripping experience is required for the Yukon River?
A. While the Yukon River offers some sections suitable for beginners, I recommend intermediate canoe tripping skills and experience (especially if you’re paddling without a guide). With no road access between Lower Laberge and Little Salmon Village, paddlers need to be completely self-sufficient and prepared for the remote nature of the Yukon River. Paddlers should be familiar with paddling techniques, wilderness camping skills, and backcountry navigation and safety. I also suggest completing a wilderness first aid course before attempting this Yukon River canoe trip.
Q. What advice would you give someone planning to canoe the Yukon River?
A. Planning and preparedness are key to a successful Yukon River canoe trip. Familiarize yourself with the river’s sections and potential hazards. Plan your itinerary and bring enough food and supplies to sustain yourself for the duration of your trip. I was caught in several thunderstorms and needed waterproof and warm gear to stay safe. Bring everything you will need to deal with weather changes. Chat with local outfitters for advice for guided or self-guided paddling trips.
Q. I’m a beginner paddler. Can I book a guided tour?
A. Absolutely. There are many outfitters offering guided trips (including canoe and gear rentals), such as Ruby Range Adventures, Kanoe People, and Up North Adventures.
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Who Should Paddle the Yukon River?
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Before planning your Yukon River canoe trip, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions: Have you ever completed a backcountry canoe trip? Are you comfortable on the water and skilled in canoeing on moving and flat water? Do you have the necessary gear to be self-sufficient and prepared for several days in remote wilderness? Have you completed wilderness first aid training? Are you ready for a challenging but rewarding backcountry adventure?
If you can’t say yes to each of these questions, you may want to consider going with a guide or choosing a shorter backcountry canoe trip. Backcountry paddling isn’t always glamorous — like the hour I spent sitting on the riverbank in the pouring rain with thunder and lightning cracking above the river! Be prepared for whatever comes your way and your trip will be an overall success.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit
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Yukon River Canoe Trip Map
When To Canoe the Yukon River?
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The best time to paddle the Yukon River is from the end of May to the middle of September. Plan to paddle after the ice flow and before the temperatures drop / snow arrives. I paddled the end of July into the beginning of August, with mostly sunny days, warm temperatures, and not too much rain. That being said, I ran into a few sporadic thunderstorms over the course of six days and needed to get off the water. But honestly, that’s all part of the adventure!
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Yukon River History
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The Yukon River has been central to the Indigenous peoples of the region for thousands of years, as a vital corridor for hunting, fishing, and trade among Indigenous groups such as the Hän, Gwich’in, and Koyukon, and others. For these first communities, the Yukon River played an integral part in the formation of cultural, spiritual, and livelihood practices, and as the years went on, this mighty waterway supported the growth and development of the region.
Paddling from Whitehorse to Carmacks, one notable historic site is the Hootalinqua Telegraph Station built during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century. As part of the larger Yukon telegraph network, this station was designed to connect the remote and booming Yukon communities with the outside world for both personal messages and operational logistics. As modern telecommunications evolved, telegraph stations became a reminder of what once was. Do your part to help preserve Yukon’s heritage by leaving this site exactly like you found it.
Did you know? Hootalinqua comes from the Northern Tutchone word “Hudinlin,” which means “running against the mountain.” The Hootalinqua site was a popular gathering place for trade and visiting between the Tlingit, Southern Tutchone, and Northern Tutchone Indigenous people.
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Canoe Rentals and Shuttles
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Before driving across Canada, I decided to leave my canoe on the East Coast and rent one in Whitehorse. If you need a canoe rental or shuttle after your paddle, Up North Adventures is one of the best options in Whitehorse. I was able to reserve a canoe rental (up to 8 days) and book my shuttle from Carmacks to Whitehorse for $960 CAD (find updated pricing here).
Bringing your own boat or using your own vehicles for shuttling would make this more affordable, if you have the option. I appreciated the flexibility from Up North Adventures in shifting my original shuttle date. I made a last-minute decision to shorten my canoe trip to make time for Kluane National Park.
Note: If you need to park your vehicle, free parking is available near the Kanoe People Outfitters in Whitehorse. Up North Adventures will bring the canoe to the boat launch, which is within walking distance of the parking area.
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Finding the Whitehorse Boat Launch
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Up North Adventures brought the canoe to the boat launch beside Kanoe People Outfitters, next to the corner of Strickland and Front Streets. After parking my car in the parking area, I double-checked my gear and carried everything over to the boat launch in my Level Six Algonquin 95 portage pack. If you prefer another launch point, you could use the Rotary Park Park Boat Launch a few minutes to the south. I was finally ready to paddle the Yukon!
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Canoeing in Kejimkujik National Park
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6-Day Yukon River Paddle Itinerary (+ more options!)
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6-Day Itinerary (My Trip)
This itinerary might not be the best fit for those who prefer shorter days on the water. Personally, I found this Yukon River canoe trip very enjoyable and six days felt just right for the experience. Continue reading for a glimpse into my journey.
Day 1 — Whitehorse to Lake Laberge (Laurier Creek) – 54.5 KM
Started at 11:00am and arrived at 10:30pm.
Day one started off in Whitehorse paddling along the fast-flowing Yukon River, passing by Egg Island and spotting several bald eagles on the high riverbanks. I continued along and passed by several campsites before Lake Laberge, stopping for lunch at the horseshoe-bend site before Upper Laberge area. After lunch, I continued on to Lake Laberge and paddled along the right-hand side of the lake to reach Laurier Creek. Thankfully, Lake Laberge was calm and glassy and didn’t present any major challenges (but no tailwind… dang!). Canoeing into the sunset was absolutely spectacular…and swimming in Lake Laberge was refreshing!
Day 2 — Lake Laberge – Laurier Creek to Goddard Point – 30 KM
Started at 9:00am and arrived at 6:00pm.
Day two felt like my longest day. Don’t underestimate the sheer size of Lake Laberge. Again, the calm lake conditions allowed me to keep a decent paddling pace, passing by high cliffs and stopping for lunch on the rocks. Without the river current, paddling Lake Laberge solo was a much slower endeavour but I reached Goddard Point around suppertime. I threw up my tent just before the first of several thunderstorms (what a treat to watch from the shore!).
Day 3 — Goddard Point to Hootalinqua – 50.5 KM
Started at 8:30am and arrived at 4:00pm.
Day three was one of my favourites. I passed by the Lower Laberge campsite and jumped back onto the fast-flowing river where I could once again paddle 10 km/hour. What a feeling to leave behind Lake Laberge and the last road access until Little Salmon Village. I was on my own: self-sufficient in the remote wilderness of the Yukon. That being said, I passed a large group of paddlers (mostly beginners) visiting from Asia and two brothers paddling from Australia. While I enjoyed many hours of solitude, there were more paddlers than expected but the brief chats were welcome. Arriving at the Hootalinqua site and throwing up my hammock was a great way to end the day (nice campsites for large groups).
Day 4 — Hootalinqua to Twin Creeks – 92 KM
Started at 9:00am and arrived at 8:30pm.
Day four was titled, “Let’s see how far I can go!” Starting off in a thick fog, I spotted a moose on the left riverbank and another about an hour later on the opposite side. And many more eagles. When I reached Big Salmon, I stopped for a quick lunch break and quickly got back on the river after hearing distant rumbles. The thunderstorm rolled in and before too long I left the water to wait it out… and wait… and wait…. Over an hour of POURING rain and LOUD thunder and lightning. When the coast was clear, I launched my canoe back on the river and that was the end of that (until that night at Twin Creeks… another storm! My MSR Hubba proved itself on this trip).
Day 5 — Twin Creeks to Macauley Bar – 55 KM
Started at 9:00am and arrived at 3:30pm.
Day five was another warm and sunny day. The weather was exceptional for most of my trip — minus those short-lived thundershowers. After passing Little Salmon Village, the river follows the highway and feels much less remote. I paddled and paddled some more until finding a nice campsite at Macauley Bar by mid-afternoon (with more top-notch hammock trees). I set up camp, ate some supper, and enjoyed the breezy afternoon swaying in the trees.
Day 6 — Macauley Bar to Carmacks – 17.5 KM
Started at 7:30am and arrived at 10:00am.
Compared to the rest, day six was very short and relaxed. I could’ve continued on to Carmacks the day before but, with the shuttle schedule prescheduled, I took time to experience another campsite (which was great choice). After packing up camp for the final time, I got an early start and arrived at Coal Mine Campground after a couple of hours of easy paddling. With time to spare before the shuttle arrived, I tossed up my hammock beside the water and savoured the final moments of my Yukon River adventure.
7-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Whitehorse to Lake Laberge (Upper Laberge)
Day 2 — Lake Laberge – Upper Laberge to Laurier Creek
Day 3 — Laurier Creek to Lower Laberge
Day 4 — Lower Laberge to Hootalinqua
Day 5 — Hootalinqua to Big Salmon
Day 6 — Big Salmon to Twin Creeks
Day 7 — Twin Creeks to Carmacks
8-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Whitehorse to Lake Laberge (Upper Laberge)
Day 2 — Lake Laberge – Upper Laberge to Laurier Creek
Day 3 — Laurier Creek to Lower Laberge
Day 4 — Lower Laberge to Hootalinqua
Day 5 — Hootalinqua to Big Salmon
Day 6 — Big Salmon to Twin Creeks
Day 7 — Twin Creeks to Macauley Bar
Day 8 — Macauley Bar to Carmacks
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Yukon River Canoe Trip Distances
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Here are some key distances on the Yukon River between Whitehorse and Carmacks:
| KM | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Boat Launch (Whitehorse) | Canoe and kayak boat launch. Next to Kanoe People Outfitters. |
| 12 | Egg Island Campsite | Campsites and picnic tables on an island. |
| 32 | Steamboat Slough Campsite | Good camp, picnic tables, fire pit. |
| 34 | Upper Laberge Campsite | Campsites on a high riverbank. |
| 54.5 | Laurier Creek Campsite | Campsites and fire pit. Nice beach access. |
| 84.5 | Goddard Point Campsite | Campsites with nice beach access. Outhouse nearby. |
| 87.5 | Lower Laberge Campsite | Several campsites and picnic tables. |
| 135 | Hootalinqua Campsite | A large and developed camping area. Several campsites, outhouses, and a shelter. Hootalinqua Telegraph Station cabin. Nice hammock trees. |
| 174 | Big Eddy Woodcamp | Campsites and fallen cabin. |
| 189 | Big Salmon Village | Several campsites. |
| 227 | Twin Creeks Campsite | Two separate camping areas. Creek and bridge, campsites, and an outhouse. |
| 248.5 | Little Salmon Village | Only road access after Lake Laberge. |
| 282 | Macauley Bar Campsite | Campsites up on the riverbank. Nice hammock trees. |
| 300 | Coal Mine Campground (Carmacks) | RV and tent campsites. Flush toilets, laundry, and other amenities. |
I had the chance to camp at several sites along the Yukon River. That being said, I didn’t stop and thoroughly explore each and every site. If you’ve stayed at any of the above sites (or others not listed) and would like to share updates and information, please leave a comment below and I will update this table for future paddlers. Thank you!
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Navigating the Yukon River
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Paddlers should have wilderness navigation and orienteering skills, with the ability follow maps and recognize landmarks. There is minimal signage along the river. I suggest picking up a copy of Yukon River (Carmacks-Dawson) by Mike Rourke for trip-planning information and a thorough Yukon River paddling map. I brought a copy with me to review each night and reference during the day (in this waterproof map case). Buy your copy from Up North Adventures and they will mail for an additional fee.
Read next: 3-Day Milk River Canoe Trip in Alberta—The Ultimate Guide
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Yukon River Canoe Trip Packing List
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Are you ready to pack for your Yukon River canoe trip? Here’s a list of items you should consider bringing along:
Camping Gear:
- 95-litre Dry Pack
- MSR Hubba Hubba
- MEC Talon sleeping bag
- Them-a-rest NeoAir
- Sleeping bag liner
- Siltarp
- Paracord
- Camp shoes
- Arc’teryx Beta LT waterproof jacket
- Jetboil Flash
- Campsuds
- Spoon and bowl
- GSI mug
- Petzl head
- First aid kit
- PackTowel
- Mora knife
- Trowel
Personal Items:
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Sunglasses
- Toothbrush / toothpaste
- Toilet paper
Food and Water:
- Meals and snacks (plus extra)
- Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Filter
- Nalgene bottle
Clothing:
- Long-sleeve paddle shirt
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm gloves
- Sun hat or cap
- Buff
- Level Six water shoes
- Socks and underwear
Navigation and Safety:
- Waterproof map and compass
- Waterproof map case
- PFD (personal flotation device)
- Whistle
- Level Six bilge pump
- Painter rope
- Spare paddle
- Lighter / matches
- Boat repair kit
- Zoleo sat comm
Optional
- Hammock
- Anker powerbank
- GoPro
- Camera
- Book
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Meal Preparation
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On my Yukon River canoe trip, choosing lightweight and easy-to-make meals was important. That being said, weight didn’t matter as much as it did on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit in British Columbia (with multiple portages). I like to start the day with a hearty breakfast of instant potatoes (with bacon bits and cheese) or a classic instant oatmeal breakfast.
After long days of canoeing, I gravitate towards freeze-dried dinners that just need boiling water. They’re convenient and calorie-dense — perfect to refuel after hours of paddling. And for a quick lunch, I brought wraps with peanut butter or pepperoni and cheese. Tasty and hassle-free. If you’re like me and want little energy boosts during the day, don’t forget to pack granola bars or high-energy chews.
Psssssst. If you’re looking for a lightweight and convenient camp stove, I can’t say enough good things about the Jetboil Flash. Boil water and cook meals with ease! The Jetboil has been my go-to camp stove for many backcountry trips. #NotSponsoredJustLoveIt
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Toilets
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Be prepared for minimal access to toilets and outhouses when canoeing the Yukon River. I spent some quality time with the Chedànda k’enji toilet (above), one of the nicest outhouses / thunderboxes beside Lake Laberge. If you’re planning to camp at Hootalinqua, there are a couple of outhouses in decent shape. Many of the unofficial backcountry sites along the Yukon River do not have outhouses nearby. Be prepared to follow Leave No Trace practices by burying your business six to eight inches deep and at least 70 feet away from campsites and water sources.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to the Bagwa Canoe Route in Saskatchewan
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Safety on the Yukon River
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Before starting a Yukon River canoe trip, it’s important to become aware of the potential risks that could arise in the wilderness. During my trip, I experienced four significant thunder and lightning storms, including one where I got off the water and waited for the storm to pass. Bring essential backcountry camping gear and a first aid kit to deal with minor injuries. It’s always a good idea to bring extra food and warm clothing (like a warm jacket) in case of an emergency (rescues can take some time).
As a solo and experienced paddler, I left my trip plan with trusted friends and used quality and familiar gear to stay safe outdoors. I also brought a Zoleo satellite communications device to send emergency messages (including SOS) if needed (thankfully, it wasn’t needed). These days, I don’t leave home without Zoleo after taking on several multi-day backcountry trips. You won’t have cell service for most of the Whitehorse to Carmacks stretch.
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Yukon River Wildlife
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A territory known for its vast wilderness, Yukon is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife including moose and grizzly bears. Backcountry paddlers should maintain a safe distance to protect the animals and themselves, and store food and other animal attractants away from your tent or in a bear-proof canister. These canisters also keep pesky rodents away from your snacks. When paddling and camping in Yukon’s backcountry, I suggest bringing bear spray and knowing how and when to use it. Witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat is one of the pleasures of paddling, but we must be aware and prepared to do so in a safe and nature-friendly manner.
Read next: Miles Canyon Hike Near Whitehorse, Yukon
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Where To Say in Whitehorse — The Edgewater Hotel
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After finishing 5 days in Tombstone Territorial Park, I drove about six hours from Dawson City to Whitehorse and stayed overnight before starting my Yukon River canoe trip. A big thank you to The Edgewater Hotel for providing a complimentary night’s stay before heading back into the backcountry. After several nights on my sleeping pad, I was happy to have a comfortable bed with modern amenities before starting my paddle. If you’re looking for a place to stay in downtown Whitehorse, I had a great time at The Edgewater Hotel with updated and modern rooms, a convenient location, and very friendly staff. I would go back in a heartbeat.
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Outdoor Ethics — Paddling the Yukon River
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Plan ahead: Before starting your trip, research any restrictions or closures and respect these when you’re paddling (including fire bans). Check the weather and bring everything you might need to stay warm and safe in the backcountry.
Use Established Campsites: There are many established campsites along the Yukon River. Aside from an emergency scenario, there’s no reason to establish new sites or disrupt sensitive ecosystems and environments.
Dispose of Waste: If you pack it in, please pack it out. Do not leave anything behind (including organic waste like orange peels or apple cores). Go the extra mile and pack out any trash you come across. When nature calls and you’re not near an outhouse, dig a cathole at least 70 feet away from water sources, campsites, and trails. Do your dishes away from water sources and bury graywater with minimal biodegradable soap.
Minimal Impact: Leave what you find, including natural and historical artifacts. Try to limit the use of campfires (especially without a fire pit) and bring a camp stove for cooking.
Respect Wildlife: Keep your distance from wildlife and back away at the first sign of nervous behaviour. Do not feed wild animals and keep your food securely stored. Keep your dog on a leash to avoid negative impacts of wildlife.
Respect Other Visitors: Be kind and respectful to other paddlers and campers. Keep excessive noise to a minimum and do not bring a speaker (use headphones if needed). If your campsite is occupied, move on to the next one or ask if there is enough space to share.
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Are you planning a Yukon River canoe trip? Did you find this guide helpful? Need more information? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell
Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
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