For a truly historic driving experience, the breathtaking Alaska Highway is world renowned. Constructed during World War II, this smooth, scenic route stretches from Watson Lake near the British Columbia border to Beaver Creek at the Alaska border. The journey promises pristine wilderness, plentiful wildlife, and feeling of history and freedom in wide open spaces as it winds through eight Yukon communities, a national park, major attractions and Yukon's capital city, Whitehorse.

Day 1 – Gateway to the Yukon

Welcome to the Yukon! You've logged some miles and arrived in Watson Lake. Wander the Sign Post Forest, a charming collection of distance and directional signs to hometowns around the globe. Visit the trails, sandy beach and outdoor waterslide at Lucky Lake. You'll also find lakeside bird watching in the heart of town, and golf, day adventures and camping nearby.

Day 2 – The Other Natural Wonder

You're here in the season of the midnight sun, but you can still get a taste of our other natural phenomenon in the skies. The Northern Lights Space and Science Centre is a state-of-the-art facility that showcases the aurora borealis. Take in the show on the full dome video screen, and check out the interactive displays, before wrapping up your time in Watson Lake.

Day 3 – Art and Sand

As you continue north, you'll arrive in the community of Teslin.  Stop in at the Teslin Tlingit Heritage Cultural Centre to see the amazing carvings, beadwork and other local art. Learn more about the local Inland Tlingit people at the George Johnston museum. Then spend some time with your toes in the sand at Marsh Lake day camp area, about 45 minutes from Whitehorse.

Day 4 – Love It Like the Locals Do

From open air concerts over the noon hour to historic site walking tours, in Whitehorse you'll find plenty of options for keeping busy under the midnight sun. Take a late evening stroll - you might be surprised at the bustle! Locals often find they have extra energy during the long days of a northern summer and take advantage of it by extending their days' activities.

Day 5 – Mammals and Mountain Ranges

Head towards the picturesque mountain village of Haines Junction, but take a short detour to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, a wildlife viewing property with several species of Yukon mammals in their natural environment. It's a fantastic photo opportunity that's not to be missed. Head back toward the Alaska Highway and carry on to Haines Junction, where the striking St. Elias mountain ranges wait to greet you.

Day 6 – A Place to Pause

From flightseeing over the world's largest nonpolar ice fields to exploring local First Nations' history and culture, Haines Junction is a beautiful place to spend some time. Carry on from here to Beaver Creek as the Alaska Highway parallels the majestic outer rim of Kluane National Park. Kluane is part of the largest internationally protected area in the world. Beyond the front ranges lies Mount Logan, Canada's highest peak.

Don't Miss Activity

The Watson Lake Visitors Interpretive Centre, right next to the world famous Sign Post Forest, houses a fascinating look into the building of the Alaska Highway. Displays, along with an audiovisual presentation, provide insight into the challenges of building this epic highway.

Don't Miss Event

Experience exciting traditional performances at the Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre. Cultural programs include singing, dancing, drumming, an artists' market, demonstrations and canoeing events.

Flightseeing

Treat yourself to a stunning view of Yukon scenery. Flightseeing offers an extra-special tour over ice fields, mountains and valleys, and often the wildlife that lives there.

Alaska Highway Summary

Distance: 550 miles (one-way)
Time recommended: 5 nights
Features: Alaska Highway history, First Nations cultures, Whitehorse attractions, Kluane National Park and Reserve
Activities: Visiting cultural and heritage attractions, wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, camping, walking tours, shopping, flightseeing

Yukon is a destination of unparalleled scenic beauty that captivates its visitors under the spell of the midnight sun and the dance of northern lights. It's a land that provides Larger than Life experiences distinguished by culture and its vast, wide-open spaces and the freedom inspired by the unending, pristine wilderness.

Complete North America offer a 14-day 'Yes! Yukon' tour from £3099 per person including flights. For more information contact tel: 0115 961 0590 or visit: www.completenorthamerica.com/just-yukon/

Audley Travel offer a 16-day 'Spectacular Yukon' tour from £3285 per person including flights. For more information contact tel: 01993 838 700 or visit: www.audleytravel.com/destinations/canada-and-the-usa/canada/itinerary-ideas/spectacular-yukon.aspx