Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour | Full Day

The Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour offers adventurous travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Yukon Territory. From the dramatic Miles Canyon to the serene Emerald Lake and the unexpected Carcross Desert, this full-day excursion promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, the tour caters to hikers of all skill levels, providing air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and snacks. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or simply seeking to discover the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes, this tour might just be the perfect way to unlock the secrets of the Canadian North.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Full-Day Tours In Whitehorse.

Key Points

• Full-day hiking tour showcasing Yukon Territory’s diverse natural landscapes, including awe-inspiring Miles Canyon, Emerald Lake, and the Carcross Desert.
• Suitable for hikers of all skill levels, with air-conditioned transportation and snacks/water provided.
• Explores the historic village of Carcross, offering a unique cultural experience.
• Tour departs and returns to the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse.
• Confirmation and availability subject to booking, with a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day hiking tour showcases the grandeur of Yukon Territory’s natural landscapes, taking adventurous travelers on a journey through diverse and dramatic settings.

Suitable for beginners, the tour features a variety of landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Miles Canyon to the serene Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the historic village of Carcross, gaining insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

With snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation provided, this hiking excursion offers a seamless and comfortable way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Southern Lakes area in the Yukon.

Destinations Explored

The tour takes guests on a journey through some of the region’s most captivating destinations, starting with the awe-inspiring Miles Canyon. Carved by the mighty Yukon River, this dramatic gorge offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the geological history of the area. Next, the group ventures to the serene Emerald Lake, where the vibrant green hues of the water contrast beautifully with the surrounding mountains. The final stop is the unique Carcross Desert, a surreal landscape of sand dunes that defies expectations in this northern setting.

Destination	Key Highlights
Miles Canyon	Dramatic gorge carved by Yukon River
Emerald Lake	Vibrant green waters, stunning mountain backdrop
Carcross Desert	Unexpected desert landscape in the North

Tour Inclusions

To ensure a comfortable and carefree experience, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour includes a selection of thoughtful amenities.

Travelers are provided with refreshing bottled water and tasty snacks to sustain them throughout the day.

Plus, an air-conditioned vehicle transports the group between the scenic destinations, offering a climate-controlled respite from the elements.

Gratuities for the tour guide are also included, allowing guests to fully enjoy the journey without the need to handle any financial transactions.

With these thoughtful touches, the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour ensures that participants can focus on exploring the grandeur of the Yukon Territory without worrying about the logistical details.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse, where you will meet the guide and depart for the day’s adventures.

At the end of the tour, travelers will return to the same meeting point.

The meeting and pickup details are as follows:

1. Pickup location: The Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse.
2. Pickup time: The tour starts promptly at the scheduled time, so it’s recommended to arrive a few minutes early.
3. Return to the same location: After a full day of exploring the Carcross and Southern Lakes region, the tour will end back at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse.

Confirmation and Availability

Upon booking, travelers will receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. This ensures that the tour can accommodate your and their desired travel dates.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s conveniently located near public transportation for those who need alternative mobility options.

While a moderate fitness level is required, the variety of landscapes and destinations caters to hikers of different skill levels.

With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the tour provides a more intimate and personalized experience.

Guests can look forward to exploring the grandeur of the Yukon Territory, from the dramatic Miles Canyon to the serene Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert.

Accessibility and Transportation

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for those who need alternative mobility options.

The hiking destinations, ranging from the dramatic Miles Canyon to the serene Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert, cater to hikers of different skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

The tour offers:

1. Air-conditioned vehicle transportation to and from the meeting point, providing a comfortable journey to the hiking locations.

2. A variety of dramatic landscapes, from rugged canyons to serene lakes, that can be explored at a pace suitable for beginners.

3. Gratuities included, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants.

Fitness Level Requirements

To participate in the Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour, travelers need a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour involves hiking through varied terrain, including canyons, lakeshores, and deserts, which may require some endurance and agility.

Participants should be prepared for walks spanning several hours and occasional uneven or inclined paths. While the tour is suitable for beginners, a moderate fitness level is recommended to fully enjoy the dramatic landscapes and ensure a comfortable experience.

The tour operator has set a maximum group size of 20 travelers to provide a more personalized and manageable experience for those with varying fitness levels. Guests are encouraged to consider their physical capabilities before booking to make the most of this scenic adventure.

Group Size Limit

The tour operator has set a maximum group size of 20 travelers to provide a more personalized and manageable experience for participants with varying fitness levels. This group size cap ensures that the guide can attend to the needs of each hiker and maintain a comfortable pace for the entire party.

Some key benefits of the small group size include:

1. Easier navigation through the diverse terrain, as the guide can effectively communicate with and monitor all hikers.
2. More opportunities for one-on-one interactions, allowing the guide to offer tailored recommendations and assistance.
3. A heightened sense of camaraderie and cohesion within the group, fostering a collaborative and supportive hiking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement, but participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to handle the hiking activities. Children under 12 may require parental supervision during the tour.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hiking Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this hiking tour. The tour operator’s policy is to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, and the presence of pets could distract from that goal. Guests must leave their furry friends at home.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

Hikers may need to bring suitable footwear, layers of clothing, sun protection, and a small backpack for snacks and water. Other specialized equipment like hiking poles may be recommended depending on the terrain and difficulty of the trail.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and vegan options. Snacks and bottled water are provided, so guests with specific dietary needs can be catered for during the hiking adventure.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator may accommodate customizations to the itinerary upon request, subject to availability. Travelers should inquire about potential modifications when booking the tour to ensure their preferences can be accommodated.

Recap

The Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour offers an immersive experience in Yukon’s stunning natural landscapes.

Visitors can explore diverse settings, from dramatic canyons to vibrant lakes and unexpected deserts, while enjoying inclusive amenities and accessible transportation.

This tour caters to hikers of various skill levels, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an all-encompassing adventure in the region’s awe-inspiring settings.