Yukon Winter Retreat
Experience thrilling adventure, cultural connection, restorative movement, and the awe of the aurora.
February 2 - February 7, 2027 | 10 Spots Max | 6 days
Experience Winter, the Northern Way.
In the North, winter teaches us to slow down, fostering deeper connection with nature, community, and the art and culture that warms the season.
About the adventure.
Yukon winters can be intimidating, but with the right guidance they become a magical adventure.
Step into a winter adventure guided by Dani Marie Lister and Jake Wykes with special guest Amber Heals - Kluane First Nation citizen and cultural guide. Over 6 days, experience the Yukon in its quiet, wild glory, from dog sledding to cultural workshops with local indigenous and end each day beneath the awe of the northern lights. We designed this experience to foster a community and friendship while having adventures you will bring home stories about.
Highlights:
Adventure — Dog sledding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and wilderness bushcraft.
Culture — Indigenous-led workshops on traditional plant medicine and beadwork as well interpretation to learn more about the local culture and history.
Restoration — Yoga, hot springs, and quiet lodge evenings.
It’s a chance to move beyond ordinary travel and step into a deeper relationship with place, culture, and the magic of winter itself.
Dates:
February 2 to February 7, 2027
Price:
$4,650 CAD per person + 5% GST ($3,305.22 USD) Payment plan and instalments option available
Duration:
6 days
Guide Ratio:
1 Guide / per 5 Guests
Start Point:
Erik Neilson International Airport in Whitehorse, Yukon.
Accommodation:
Hotel + Lodge Stays. Shared rooms.
Itinerary.
Every evening we will have a guided northern lights tour if conditions are permitting (ie skies clear of clouds).
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Welcome to the wilderness city of Whitehorse, Yukon! We will pick you up upon arrival and take you to your accommodation in the heart of downtown Whitehorse. Settle in after your travels, then join us for our first evening activity: a glassblowing experience followed by a group dinner. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and get to know your new-found friends as we kick off our Yukon adventure together! 🫶🏼
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Our journey begins in Whitehorse.
Learn the traditional art of beading through a hands-on workshop led by a local Indigenous Elder, in partnership with the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre.
Enjoy a scenic cross-country skiing experience along snow-covered trails, with a break at a cozy, snow-covered hut along the way. No prior experience is necessary, as an instructor will guide the group throughout the activity. This beginner-friendly experience is a wonderful way to explore the winter landscape, enjoy the fresh air, and embrace the beauty of the Yukon in winter.
Stroll through the frozen city
Group dinner
End the night under the stars, chasing the northern lights.
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Embark on a dog sledding adventure through the landscapes of the iconic Southern Lakes region.
Scenic tour of historic Carcross and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Warm up at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs.
Another chance to witness the aurora dancing overhead.
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Grab a fresh breakfast in Whitehorse before taking the scenic drive into Kluane Nation Park and Reserve (about 2 hours)
Explore the stunning winter scenery of Kluane National Park, taking in its vast mountain landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Pause for a fireside lunch at Kathleen Lake, offering a chance to warm up, connect with fellow travellers, and appreciate the unique beauty of the Yukon wilderness in winter.
Wander onto a frozen lake with towering peaks
Meet your hosts at Mount Logan EcoLodge.
Evening restorative yoga session with Amber
End the day beneath the aurora-filled skies.
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Wake up with morning yoga in the lodge.
Strap on snowshoes for a guided trek into the Alsek Valley.
Learn essential winter bushcraft skills.
Explore the traditions of plant medicine in a hands-on workshop.
Final evening under the northern night sky.
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Return to Whitehorse with time to enjoy any final stops before departure. In the North, we often say “see you later” rather than goodbye—a sentiment that reflects the lasting connections formed through Yukon Explored. Many of our past guests stay in touch long after their adventures end, and we hope this is just the beginning of your own connection to the Yukon and the people you’ve met along the way.
What’s Included?
Guide Services
All Meals starting evening of Day 1 (healthy and quality meals is always a focus for our trips)
Transportation
Accommodations as indicated in the itinerary
Eclipse Hot Springs
Dog Sledding
Cross Country Ski Lesson & Rental
Cultural Interpretation
Traditional Beading Workshop
Yoga Sessions
Glass Blowing Workshop
Plan Medicine Workshop
Extensive First Aid Kit
Satellite Communication devices
Hotel or airport drop off on day 6
Snowshoes
Hot Drinks throughout the day
What’s Not-Included?
Airfare to and from Whitehorse, Yukon
Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
Alcohol at meals (in restaurants only, must be 19+)
Personal gear (see packing list) - option to rent winter gear
Accommodations on Day 6
Lunch + Dinner on Day 6
Witness the magic of the aurora beneath Yukon’s starry skies.
The Sun’s 11-year solar cycle has brought a period of heightened solar activity, creating exciting opportunities to witness spectacular Northern Lights. The Yukon is one of the world’s premier destinations for aurora viewing, thanks to its northern location and dark skies. While aurora displays vary from night to night, the Yukon offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience this natural wonder.
Skill Prerequisites:
1:5 guide to guest ratio
Winter Experience:
None is needed! We are here to teach you the ways of existing in the northern winters while keep you warm and safe.
Physical Skill:
Must be capable of walking in the snow for up to 5km.
Above all is a “Can-do” attitude! Positive attitudes are essential for maximum enjoyment of all.
Good Attitude:
Feeling unsure? Please contact us, we are happy to answer your questions :)
What are Yukon winters like?
Yukon winters are bold and uncompromising, in early February, you’ll have about 8 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 8 a.m. and sunset near 5 p.m., and temperatures ranging from -10°C to -30°C (often dipping lower at night). Winter transforms the landscape completely: lakes freeze solid, rivers steam with ice fog, and the world takes on a quiet, crystalline beauty. It’s this mix of light, cold, and challenge that makes winter here unforgettable, and with the right gear and guidance, it becomes part of the adventure we embrace together.
Meet Amber Heals
Guiding us through yoga, First Nation interpretation and a plant medicine workshop.
Amber Heals is a citizen of the Kluane First Nation and the founder of The Land Heals. Guided by her roots and a deep love for the land, Amber has spent over a decade sharing cultural walking tours in the Yukon, where she brings stories of history, resilience, and transformation to life. She weaves together traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, yoga, and practices of mindfulness to create spaces of connection and healing. Through her talks, tours, and classes, Amber invites others to slow down, listen deeply, and discover the wisdom that lives in both the land and within themselves.
Meet your guides.
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Co-Host
Hey I’m Dani 👋 I’m a born and raised Yukoner whose developed a passion for experiencing our wild and remote landscapes through hiking, paddling, skiing and camping. It always brings me a deeper connection to nature and a source of inspiration. I’m stoked to share my home, get covered in dirt and make memories together
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Co-HostHey, I’m Jake. A certified and experienced whitewater guide. I received my training through the Canadian Outdoor Leadership Training (COLT) Program and have 6 years of experience guiding multi-day expeditions on the Tatshenshini-Alsek Rivers. I was born and raised in the Yukon, and have a passion for adventure. Committed to safety and environmental stewardship, I’m excited to share my love of the Yukon with you!
Personal Packing List
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Camera
Tripod (if you want to capture the aurora)
Hand warmers + toe warmers
20L day bag
Lip balm + hand cream
SPF
Headlamp
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All non-Canadian residents will be required to have proof of Travel Insurance. Make sure winter activities are included in the plan - check out World Nomads
Health Card and Insurance
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Insulated snow pants (or shells layered with down plants)
Warm winter jacket/parka and/or layering system with a outershell, down jacket and midlayer
Down puffy
Winter boots rated for - 30C
Base layer top x2 (we prefer merino wool)
Base layer bottom x2 (we prefer merino wool)
Fleece top
Wool socks x 2
Warm beanie / toque
Hiking pants (warmer or lined preferably) can be layered with base layer bottoms on warmer winter days or higher intensity activities
Warm winter mitts
Glove liners
Neck warmer
Sunglasses
Packing: We’ll host a pre-trip call to review recommended packing essentials, discuss any specific gear requirements, and answer any questions you may have to help you feel prepared for your Yukon adventure.
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Fleece or wool sweater
Cozy pants
Yoga outfit
Warm socks or slippers
If you don’t own winter gear - we can coordinate a winter gear rental package for the trip.
(also saves you space in your luggage!)
How to get to the Yukon?
Map Credit to Tourism Yukon
While the Yukon is remote it’s actually very accessible. The easiest and quickest method is by flying.
📍 Fly into Erik Neilson International Airport - Whitehorse, Yukon.
From Canada
Direct flights are available from major airports such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto.From the USA
There are no direct flights; however, you can easily connect through Vancouver or Calgary to reach Whitehorse.From Europe & Overseas
We recommend flying through Vancouver and connecting to Whitehorse.
Get connecting fairs to Whitehorse for $99 CAD via Air North - learn more here
(It won’t show up in flight search engines but AirNorth is the most affordable airline to the Yukon)
Prepare for the experience of a lifetime.
Reconnect with nature, explore and make memories.
Things to know.
How cold does it get in the Yukon in winter?
In late February, temperatures generally range from -10°C to -25°C (often colder at night); however, it can get as cold as around -40°C or warmer than 0°C, it isn’t easy to predict. With proper winter clothing, these conditions are not only safe but part of the magic.
How much daylight will we have in February?
Around 8 hours — sunrise is typically around 10 a.m., and sunset around 6 p.m. This creates a beautiful balance of light and long, starry nights, perfect for aurora viewing.
Is winter travel safe in the Yukon?
Yes — with preparation. The right gear and knowledge make winter adventures safe and rewarding. Our retreat is designed to support you every step of the way.
Will we definitely see the northern lights?
The aurora is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, but February is one of the best months to view them. Our retreat is designed to maximize opportunities with multiple viewing nights.
What should I wear for a Yukon winter retreat?
Layering is key: a moisture‑wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer, plus hats, gloves, scarves, warm socks, and sturdy winter boots. We’ll give you a full gear list before the trip. If you don’t own gear (or want to save space when flying) we can help coordinate gear rentals through The Base Gear Rentals.
What our guests are saying about previous Winter Retreats:
“It was amazing! Makes me wanna move to the Yukon one day!”
— Julia \\ Canada
“Dani & Jake are phenomenal guides, who put together a beautiful week of winter adventures, exploration, and learning about the Yukon and all its people. They went above and beyond with every aspect of this trip - we saw beautiful places, did lots of cool activities, ate delicious food, and had so much fun as a group! I recommend going on trip with Yukon Explored wholeheartedly, to anyone who wants to experience the magic of the North! I signed up for this purely on vibes, and my expectations were surpassed on every level.“
— Claire \\ Germany
“This winter retreat had the perfect balance of go-go and relax with endless positivity, wintry fun, First Nation knowledge, delicious food, and great company. If you enjoy new experiences in beautiful places with welcoming individuals, sign up! Fair warning...this trip will make you want to return in the summer :)”
— Sydney \\ USA
“I promise you will not need to worry about a single thing with Yukon Explored. Dani and Jake’s passion for their home shines through in every aspect of the trip. There will be exciting adventure, amazing food, and connections that will last a lifetime. I am honoured to have been apart of their Winter Retreat, and would love to come back on any future trips! Can’t say thank you enough!!”
— Skylar \\ Canada
Rewild yourself with nature.
“We need to embrace discomfort as a powerful catalyst for change and self-discovery.”
Step away from the modern world and exist presently with the force of nature. We have a strong belief that nature is always trying to teach you a lesson and that you will come out of these trips stronger mentally and physically. For us, there’s nothing that makes us feel more present.
Questions? Get in touch.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to help :)