Fun fact - Whitehorse was named by Guinness World Records as the city with the least amount of air pollution. It was noticeable. We were very impressed with the cleanliness of the city itself and the friendliness of its people (once we were allowed to get out and about, following our 2-week COVID self-isolation). The surrounding mountains are inviting and the Yukon river runs through the city with an impressive force.
While the kids were relishing in the high-speed internet, Erik and I were itching for some fresh air so we started researching the hiking trails in and around Whitehorse. We got some good advice from some locals (former neighbours and coworkers from our time in Petawawa) and started to check out the recommendations. The city has an extensive network of trails for biking and ATVs in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter. There was no lack of options for us, including a half dozen trails nearly out our back door.
When looking to hike in Whitehorse, consider the following:
1. Check out yukonhiking.ca, then download the app Trailforks. Both were excellent resources for choosing a trail and then following it properly;
2. In a 4x4 vehicle, drive to the antenna tower on Grey Mountain and then hike the summit trail. The kids managed to walk most of the trail without difficulty, though we got caught in a 15-minute downpour. The “road” up was quite tricky and we were glad it was dry. The trail offered awesome views of Whitehorse and the whole Yukon River valley;
3. If you don’t want to commit to the whole loop of Miles Canyon, at least drive to the suspension bridge. You can walk either side of the canyon from there until you’re ready to turn back. The bridge was fun to cross while the water rushes below, and the canyon walls consist of rock columns formed by flowing basaltic lava;
4. The Millennium Trial is a 5km paved loop that follows the Yukon river. It has some great views of the river and it takes you down to the salmon ladder (something I’d never seen or heard of before – cool!);
5. When we attempted the Hidden Lakes loop, we witnessed a bald eagle circling and harassing a family of loons. I have heard many loon calls in my life but never a loon scream which is what the two parents were doing when the eagle came close to them. Their screams worked; the eagle flew off. We were not able to complete the loop and had to turn back before seeing the second hidden lake. Maybe next time;
6. Our favourite view was from the top of the Fish Lake Trail. The hike itself was not our favourite as it wound steadily uphill through a forest. We couldn’t see anything beyond the trees and couldn’t measure our progress, which was tough for the kids’ motivation. But when we finally reached the top of the tree line and saw the view, we all felt a huge sense of accomplishment. Everyone was pleased with their effort. The hike is nearly 6 km, round trip;
7. There are many possible day trips that you can make from the city as well. We had hoped to swim at the Tahini Hot Springs but weren’t able to fit it into our schedule. We did make time to visit the world’s smallest desert, the Carcross Desert. What a cool place to run around and explore! Turns out, it’s really a large beach that was formed by the winds blowing over a nearby (but no longer adjacent) lake.
There are so many other things to do in Whitehorse, and many more trails. Wikipedia tells me that the city’s population has been on a steady and rapid climb. You can see it. New homes are being built. Roads are being widened. We found everything we needed with ease. We’ll have to come back when COVID isn’t a concern and the other tourist spots are open for business.