Whitehorse
Whitehorse is the capital and largest city of the Yukon territory. Nestled along the Yukon River and surrounded by mountains, Whitehorse is known for its stunning natural beauty, northern lights, and frontier spirit. It is the largest city in Canada’s three northern territories.
Quick Facts
- Territory: Yukon
- Population: ~30,000 (over 70% of Yukon’s population)
- Official Languages: English and French
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- Demonym: Whitehorse resident / Yukoner
History
Whitehorse’s roots trace back to its importance during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. It was a major stopover for prospectors heading to Dawson City. The city gets its name from the nearby White Horse Rapids, which resembled the manes of white horses.
It became the territorial capital in 1953, replacing Dawson City.
Economy
Whitehorse is the economic and administrative heart of the Yukon, with key sectors including:
- Territorial and federal government services
- Tourism and outdoor recreation
- Mining and resource development
- Construction and transportation
- Arts and crafts (especially Indigenous art)
Major Attractions
- MacBride Museum of Yukon History
- Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre
- SS Klondike National Historic Site
- Miles Canyon
- Takhini Hot Springs
- Northern Lights viewing in winter
- Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
Culture and Events
Whitehorse has a strong artistic and Indigenous presence. Major events include:
- Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Festival
- Adäka Cultural Festival (celebrating First Nations arts and culture)
- Frostbite Music Festival
- Yukon Quest – international sled dog race
Education
- Yukon University – Canada’s first northern university
- Public schools under the Yukon Department of Education
Neighborhoods
- Downtown Whitehorse
- Riverdale
- Porter Creek
- Takhini
- Granger
- Hillcrest
Transportation
Whitehorse is served by Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY), with flights to southern Canada and Alaska. Public transit and inter-community buses operate locally. The Alaska Highway runs through the city.
Did You Know?
- Whitehorse is the driest city in Canada — it gets less annual precipitation than many desert areas.
- The city enjoys extremely long daylight hours in summer — up to 20 hours per day.
- The Yukon River once powered steamboats that brought supplies to the far north.