When you consider Canada, a plethora of iconic images come to mind. Perhaps foremost are its majestic mountains and emerald green lakes, but consider for a moment experiencing these beautiful vistas away from the bustling tourist trails and combining them with historic 'gold rush' locations, the ethereal display of the Northern Lights and an unimaginable array of wildlife. Canada's Yukon territory is an unspoilt land of breath-taking proportion and a destination of unmistakable beauty.

Sitting in the northwest corner of Canada, adjacent to the US state of Alaska, Yukon is one of North America's most impressive wilderness destinations. If you have an adventurer's spirit, a love of nature and a passion for exploration, Yukon should be at the top of your holiday destination list. It is not a choice for the feint-hearted, but it is a voyage of discovery with very rich rewards.

Without doubt, a self-drive itinerary achieves the most from any holiday to the Yukon, allowing you to combine scenic journeys along the legendary Alaska, Top of the World, Klondike and Dempster Highways with historic communities, cultural attractions and picture-postcard destinations. The Yukon can be visited year-round, although its remote location and harsh winters encourage all but the hardy to travel in the warmer months of May through September.

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.

Wilderness & Wildlife
From broad uninhabited valleys to wild Yukon rivers to endless mountain ranges, more than 80 percent of the Yukon is wilderness. Discover the legendary allure of our iconic wilderness parks – Kluane, Tombstone, Herschel Island, Chilkoot, Ivvavik, Fishing Branch – and world-famous rivers – Alsek, Tatshenshini, Snake, Wind, Firth, Yukon. Witness calving glaciers, mountain vistas and abundant northern species like caribou, wolves and grizzly bears. All year long, our wild places host unforgettable journeys.

Heritage & Culture
For centuries, Yukon First Nation communities gathered - feasting, dancing, singing and drumming. The Yukon is still home to a vibrant culture. Today, it is a kaleidoscope of festivals, feasts, celebrations and artwork inspired by our rich heritage, amazing landscapes and magical skies.
Come dance under the midnight sun and discover the energy of endless days. Experience timeless traditions. Enjoy inspired flavours. Explore the dozens of museums, historic sites, and interpretive and cultural centres. Learn our stories, brought to life in so many ways. You're invited to come to the Yukon and connect with our culture. It's everywhere you look.

Upcoming Events
• Thaw di Gras Spring Carnival (18- 20 March, 2016)
For years, Dawson City has rung in Spring with a Carnival unlike any other. A true community event to celebrate the end of Winter, Dawson comes alive with over 25 events - whether you're looking to toss an axe, race a dog team, or find a loonie in a haystack there is a real carnival atmosphere, and almost every event is free.

• Percy DeWolfe Memorial Mail Race (24- 26 March, 2016)
The Percy DeWolfe Memorial Mail Race is a 210 mile international dog sled race, running from Dawson City, Yukon to Eagle, Alaska and back! The race follows the Yukon River along the same historic mail once travelled by DeWolfe.
The history of this event dates back to 1898, when a young man from Nova Scotia arrived in Dawson City. After over a decade of trying to “make it” as a Northern fisherman, DeWolfe got the contract to carry the mail to Eagle. He carried the mail regardless of the weather (sometimes battling -50 temperatures and treacherous weather), often putting the mail's arrival before his own safety.
Now, each year in March (since 1977), you can cheer on world-class mushers as they honour this local legend – Percy “The Ironman” DeWolfe.

• Crane & Sheep Festival (6-8 May, 2016)
Don't miss the Annual Crane & Sheep Viewing Festival and one of North America's most spectacular migrations of the Sandhill Cranes!
At the beginning of May, Sandhill Cranes migrate to nesting grounds in western Alaska and North-eastern Siberia. Visitors can see the birds funnel through the Yukon's Tintina Trench - a dramatic geological feature, swooping, soaring and riding thermals right over the Town of Faro. The festival also showcases Fannin sheep, tours of the area, natural history talks, and family entertainment.

 • A Celebration of Swans (1 April - 8 May, 2016)
Every spring, migratory birds descend on the Yukon en masse in a beautiful display of nature at its finest. The Celebration of Swans is the territory's premier bird festival, highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike for the sight of thousands of Trumpeter Swans in their natural habitat. Families, visitors and serious and casual birders flock to Swan Haven on Marsh Lake and other viewing areas in southern Yukon to take in the spectacle and join special events.


Experience Holidays offer a 14-day 'Yukon Highlights' fly-drive tour from £1,125 per person (land only). Tel: 01323 446 550 or visit: www.experienceholidays.co.uk 

Cox & Kings offer a 14-day 'Yukon & Alaska Wilderness Drive' tour from £1,795 per person (land only). Tel: 020 3642 0861 or visit: www.coxandkings.co.uk