Yukon Aurora Nights with Wild Adventure Yukon

Attraction · Carcross

Pass #2: Gateway to the Light

Spend a night under Yukon’s northern sky with Wild Adventure Yukon’s Aurora Experience. From snowshoeing and museum tours to fireside feasts, this trip offers a complete Northern Lights adventure.

View experience
Duration6 hours
LocationCarcross, Yukon
OperatorWild Adventure Yukon
Price shownFrom $300

Adventure brief

Pass #2: Gateway to the Light

Spend a night under Yukon’s northern sky with Wild Adventure Yukon’s Aurora Experience. From snowshoeing and museum tours to fireside feasts, this trip offers a complete Northern Lights adventure.

Carcross, Yukon, lies within the vast northern wilderness where the aurora borealis dances vividly across winter skies. Wild Adventure Yukon’s “Pass #2: Gateway to the Light” invites travelers to step into the heart of this Arctic spectacle with a carefully crafted, six-hour Standard Aurora Experience Package. This adventure isn’t just about chasing the Northern Lights—it’s an immersive evening blending culture, wildlife, and the raw power of the Yukon night.

The journey begins with pick-up by an Executive Shuttle from accommodations near Whitehorse or Carcross, ensuring comfort even before the adventure unfolds. Guests then embark on a guided snowshoe trek through snow-blanketed trails—a perfect introduction to the Yukon’s serene wilderness. This quiet trek on pristine paths highlights the unique boreal forest, where spruces and aspens stand stoic beneath crystalline skies.

Next awaits a scenic drive through mountainous valleys to Carcross, a small village rich in history and wild character. The highlight here is a visit to the largest wildlife museum in Northern Canada. Exhibits showcase iconic northern fauna including an immense woolly mammoth replica and the largest mounted polar bear on record.

These displays reveal both Ice Age history and present-day Arctic ecology, grounding visitors in the Yukon’s layered natural story. As night falls, communal fireside seating offers a warm place to savor gourmet local fare—a blend of artisan charcuterie, robust chilli, and steaming hot chocolate. This meal fuels anticipation for the main event: gazing upward to witness ribbons of green, pink, and violet aurora lights shimmering across the dark sky.

The show is as much about community and shared wonder as it is the breathtaking celestial display. Wild Adventure Yukon’s package stands out in a region where light pollution is minimal and nature’s spectacle reigns supreme. Thoughtful logistics, from the executive shuttle to handpicked local dishes, make this an accessible, memorable way to experience the Yukon’s wild northern night.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Dress for Arctic Night Conditions

    Bring insulated layers, waterproof boots, and mittens rated for temperatures below -30°C to stay warm during outdoor segments.

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  2. 02
    Arrive Well-Rested

    This 6-hour tour includes evening activities; ensure you’re rested to fully enjoy the experience and Aurora viewing.

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  3. 03
    Snowshoeing Requires Moderate Mobility

    The snowshoe hike covers uneven terrain; participants should have moderate fitness and balance.

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  4. 04
    Camera Prep

    Use a tripod and manual camera settings to capture the aurora’s fleeting light. Turn off flash and bring extra batteries.

    info
DifficultyModerate
Duration6 hours
FitnessParticipants should be in moderate physical shape, capable of walking on snow-covered terrain for about 1 hour.
Technical skillsBasic snowshoeing; no specialized technical skill needed

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Insulated Winter Jacket

Keeps you warm during prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.

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02

Snow Boots

Waterproof and insulated boots ensure dry and warm feet on snowy trails.

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03

Tripod for Camera

Critical for steady long-exposure shots of aurora borealis.

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04

Thermal Gloves and Hat

Protect extremities from frostbite during outdoor activities.

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Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

The Carcross Desert, North America's smallest desert, Spirit Lake, known for its tranquil nature and reflections

Wildlife

Local fauna

Arctic foxes occasionally spotted in winter, Migratory boreal owls inhabiting boreal forests

History

Historic heritage

Carcross was a historic trading hub during the Klondike Gold Rush and continues to preserve First Nations culture.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Wild Adventure Yukon emphasizes minimizing light pollution and respects local wildlife habitats to protect the fragile northern environment.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Open fire seating area, Clearings near Carcross village, Along snowshoe trails with panoramic views
Subjects
Aurora borealis over treeline, Wildlife museum exhibits indoors, Night sky with star constellations
Best times
Late evening after 10 PM, During clear, moonless nights, Golden hour is not applicable but early night twilight can add mood

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

What is included in the Standard Aurora Experience Package?

The package includes round-trip shuttle transport, a snowshoe trek, a visit to the wildlife museum, a gourmet meal by an open fire, and aurora watching.

Is winter clothing provided?

Winter clothing is not included; guests should bring appropriate gear capable of handling temperatures as low as -40°C.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, children aged 10 and older may participate, but those under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I add a dog-sledding adventure to my trip?

Yes, a 15-minute dog-sled ride with professional Yukon Quest dogs is available on-site for an additional fee.

Is the snowshoeing portion wheelchair accessible?

No, snowshoeing involves uneven terrain and is not wheelchair accessible, but other portions of the tour are friendly for wheelchair users.

Is seeing the aurora borealis guaranteed?

Auroras are a natural phenomenon and sightings depend on weather and solar activity; no guarantees are made, but the location offers excellent viewing conditions.

Wild Adventure Yukon

Yukon Aurora Nights with Wild Adventure Yukon