In an age where most of life's mysteries have been explained by science, the spectacle of the northern lights is something that still maintains a sense of magic and wonder.

Discover what all the mush is about

In the winter, the Yukon is full of more breathtaking adventures and experiences than you can shake a snow-covered branch at. There's witnessing the northern lights dance along the horizon, sledding with excitable tongue-wagging huskies, and trekking across mountains strapped into snowshoes—below is a sample itinerary to make the most of this winter wonderland.

Day 1 Welcome to Whitehorse

Whether you're staying in a hotel, lodge or cabin, the next few days is all about snowy fun and chasing northern lights. Start with a stroll down Main Street or pick up some local tips in our lively cafés. This relaxed northern city has great shops, galleries and museums that are open all winter.

If you love the arts, you'll be in your element here. The Yukon boasts twice the national average of artists per capita, which makes for a vibrant arts scene. First Nations culture and traditions are also featured prominently. Pick up a copy of “Art Adventures on Yukon Time” at the visitor centre for lists of Yukon artists and where to find their work.

Foodies will also be pleasantly surprised by the Yukon's thriving culinary scene. Local chefs use ingredients grown or harvested from the wild in imaginative dishes that tempt the palate with interesting and unusual flavours.

Tonight, tick off a bucket list biggie as you watch the northern lights sway and shape-shift across the sky.

Day 2 Dogsledding Adventure

Get ready for some paw power today. It's a blissful experience to travel through a magical winter landscape, where the only noise is the sound of sled runners over snow and the occasional dog yip. You should be warned though—it's highly addictive. A dog mushing trip is an interactive experience. You'll learn the basics of running a team and get to know your four-legged companions. Then you can put your newly acquired skills to the test. Or, if you prefer, just sit back and enjoy the ride. You'll also have the chance to chat with dog mushers and learn all about this unique lifestyle.

When darkness falls, it's time to begin the aurora vigil. It doesn't matter how many times you see the northern lights, it never gets old. Every show is different and all of them are sheer magic.

Day 3 Winter Activities

Now that you've added dogsledding to your skillset, rev things up with a snowmobiling trip. Winter's answer to the ATV will take you across frozen lakes, up mountains and along forest trails. Join a guided half or full day tour.

Add to your northern skills by learning how to catch fish through a hole in the ice. Yukoners love to fish, and winter is no excuse to stop. An ice-fishing excursion will introduce you to this truly northern pastime.

Strap on some snowshoes and wander through the boreal forest. Snowshoeing is a peaceful, exhilarating way to explore the snowy scenery. You can rent a pair and enjoy the quiet solitude, or go with a guide who will happily show you the winter wonderland in our backyard.

After another sensational winter day, retire to a fireside, enjoy a meal and relax before tonight's celestial show gets underway. Bring your camera and tripod because you're sure to go home with some incredible photos of the northern lights.

Day 4 Hot Springs, Wildlife and Festivals

After all the activity of the past couple of days, it's time to relax in the thermal waters of Takhini Hot Springs. If you happen to be here in February, join the fun of the International Hair Freezing Contest. For best results, the temperature should be below -20 Celsius.

For some seriously cool wildlife photo opps, join a tour to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. This huge reserve is home to 13 species of northern mammals in their natural environment.

In addition to lots of outdoor fun, winter also brings with it some of the Yukon's favourite festivals. The Sourdough Rendezvous Festival is a week-long celebration of frontier spirit and heritage done with signature northern style. With events like chainsaw chucking and frozen turkey bowling, what's not to love?

For the film buffs, the Available Light Film Festival showcases international and Canadian films at the largest film festival north of 60°. There's sure to be something happening while you're in town. Pick up a copy of "What's Up Yukon" for entertainment listings.

Before you bid the Yukon adieu, there's one more night to experience some northern lights magic.

Background on Yukon

Situated in the upper Northwest corner of Canada, next to Alaska, the Yukon is Canada's most accessible northern destination.  Home to Canada's highest mountain (Mount Logan) and one of the largest non-polar icefields located in Kluane National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site - breathtaking doesn't describe the vastness, or the beauty! 

The Yukon is one of North America's major wilderness attractions; close to 80 percent remains pristine wilderness with 5,000-metre peaks, forested valleys, unspoiled waters and untamed wildlife. Roughly the size of France at 483,000 square kilometers, The Yukon is home to more than 160,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzly bears, 10,000 black bears and 250 species of birds… and only 36,000 humans!

Magnetic North Travel offers a four-day 'Winter Aurora Lodge Holiday in the Yukon'. For more information contact 01664 400 103 or visit www.magneticnorthtravel.com

Experience Holidays offer a 'Yukon in Winter' package to view the Northern Lights. For more information contact 01323 446550 or visit www.experienceholidays.co.uk