Endless highways, open skies, and some of the most breathtaking wilderness on Earth — welcome to road-tripping in the Yukon. The Yukon was built for explorers. Its roads stretch through mountain passes, alongside turquoise lakes, and deep into landscapes that feel untouched by time. Whether you’re driving a campervan, motorcycle, or car, each mile of Yukon highway brings new discoveries. Here are the most scenic routes that show off the best of the North.

1. Alaska Highway (Whitehorse to Watson Lake)

Distance: About 440 km | Best Time: May to September The Alaska Highway is the legendary route that put the Yukon on the map. Built during World War II, it winds through forests, rivers, and mountain ranges between Whitehorse and the border town of Watson Lake. Along the way, you’ll find peaceful picnic spots, curious wildlife, and the iconic Sign Post Forest — a must-stop photo spot where travelers have left more than 90,000 signs from around the world. Take your time and enjoy detours to small communities, lakeside campgrounds, and short hiking trails. Keep an eye out for black bears and moose grazing near the roadside in early summer.

2. Klondike Highway (Whitehorse to Dawson City)

Distance: About 530 km | Best Time: Late May to September This is the route to follow if you want to trace the footsteps of gold rush dreamers. Starting in Whitehorse, the Klondike Highway follows the Yukon River valley all the way to Dawson City — the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush. Expect dramatic mountain views, historic sites, and quiet roadside lakes perfect for a mid-day stop. Don’t miss a side trip to Five Finger Rapids for a short hike and sweeping views of the Yukon River. Once you reach Dawson, reward yourself with a walk through its gold-rush-era streets and a well-earned night at one of its heritage hotels.

3. Top of the World Highway (Dawson City to Alaska)

Distance: About 127 km (to the U.S. border) | Best Time: June to mid-September Few roads live up to their name quite like this one. The Top of the World Highway connects Dawson City with Tok, Alaska, following ridgelines high above the valleys below. For much of the drive, you’re literally on top of the world — surrounded by endless rolling hills and panoramic mountain views. The route is unpaved in sections and only open during the summer, but it’s one of the most rewarding drives in the North. Stop often for photos, and don’t forget your passport — you’ll cross the Little Gold/Poker Creek border into Alaska before descending into the U.S. side of the wilderness.

4. Dempster Highway (Dawson City to Inuvik)

Distance: About 740 km | Best Time: Late June to early September For the truly adventurous, the Dempster Highway is one of Canada’s most extraordinary drives. It’s the only all-season road that crosses the Arctic Circle and leads all the way to the Mackenzie Delta. Beginning just outside Dawson City, the Dempster passes through tundra valleys, rugged peaks, and river crossings that seem to go on forever. Wildlife sightings are common — caribou, grizzly bears, and even wolves roam the remote terrain. Gas stations and services are sparse, so plan carefully, carry extra supplies, and enjoy the serenity of one of the world’s great wilderness highways.

5. South Klondike Highway (Whitehorse to Skagway, Alaska)

Distance: About 175 km | Best Time: May to September If you love a mix of history and stunning scenery, the South Klondike Highway delivers both. The road winds from Whitehorse through the charming village of Carcross before climbing into the White Pass — a dramatic mountain corridor once used by gold seekers on their way to Alaska. Stop at Emerald Lake for a photo of its brilliant green water, explore the Carcross Desert (the world’s smallest desert), and browse local art in Carcross Commons. Continue on to Skagway for a taste of Alaskan charm before looping back into the Yukon.

Tips for a Yukon Road Trip

• Fuel up often: Distances between gas stations can be long.
• Bring a paper map: Cell coverage is limited outside major towns.
• Watch for wildlife: Drive cautiously — animals often cross the road unexpectedly.
• Check road conditions: Visit 511yukon.ca for updates before setting out.
• Pack essentials: Water, snacks, warm layers, and a camera are must-haves.

Discover the Yukon at Your Own Pace

Driving through the Yukon is about more than getting from one place to another — it’s about the journey itself. Each highway tells a story of exploration, resilience, and the beauty of untamed wilderness. Whether you’re watching the sun linger past midnight or spotting wildlife against a backdrop of peaks and rivers, every moment on the road feels like a postcard come to life. Start your adventure, take your time, and let the road lead you north. For more travel inspiration, guides, and local tips, visit YukonTopSpot.com.