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

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the untamed grandeur of Canada’s Yukon Territory with the Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour. This captivating full-day adventure offers a chance to explore the picturesque town of Carcross, the enchanting Southern Lakes region, and the breathtaking Emerald Lake surrounded by ancient glaciers. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and stunning panoramic views, this inclusive small-group tour promises to immerse you in the rich Indigenous heritage and unexpected wonders of the Yukon. What secrets await as you discover the enchanting Miles Canyon and the captivating Carcross Desert? Prepare to be awed by the natural beauty that defines this remarkable northern landscape.

Key Points

• This full-day hiking tour showcases the vast, unparalleled splendor of Canada’s Yukon Territory, exploring untamed landscapes and captivating geological features.
• The tour visits the picturesque town of Carcross, known as the ‘Spirit of the Yukon,’ and the enchanting Southern Lakes region, including the serene Emerald Lake.
• Highlights include the stunning Miles Canyon, with its towering volcanic rock formations, and the unexpected wonder of the Carcross Desert, with its vast sand dunes.
• The tour is inclusive, with complimentary snacks, bottled water, and transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and is operated by the reputable Arctic Range Adventure company.
• The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with uneven terrain, inclines, and changing weather conditions, and has a maximum group size of 20 travelers for an intimate experience.

Explore Yukon’s Grandeur

This full-day hiking tour immerses adventurers in the vast, unparalleled splendor of Canada’s Yukon Territory.

Trekkers will journey through a tapestry of untamed landscapes, from the towering grandeur of Miles Canyon to the serene, emerald-hued waters of Emerald Lake.

Along the way, they’ll uncover the captivating history and unique geological features that define the Southern Lakes region, including the breathtaking Carcross Desert.

Explore the region’s dramatic glacial valleys, ancient Indigenous settlements, and otherworldly desert landscapes.

Marvel at the sheer scale and raw beauty of this untamed northern wilderness, where nature reigns supreme.

Enjoy the Yukon’s rugged splendor and create memories that will last a lifetime on this unforgettable hiking adventure.

Carcross and Southern Lakes

From the grand vistas of the Yukon’s interior, the tour now heads to the picturesque Carcross and the enchanting Southern Lakes region. Nestled amid towering mountains and glacial valleys, this idyllic area offers a glimpse into the Yukon’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Explore the charming town of Carcross, known as the ‘Spirit of the Yukon’ and home to the historic Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert.

Marvel at the breathtaking Emerald Lake, surrounded by ancient glaciers and pristine wilderness.

Hike along the serene shores of the Southern Lakes, where crystal-clear waters and rugged peaks create a picturesque setting.

Discover the Indigenous Carcross/Tagish First Nation‘s heritage, with opportunities to learn about their traditional ways of life.

Immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty that has captivated adventurers and explorers for generations.

Miles Canyon and Emerald Lake

The tour next takes visitors to the stunning Miles Canyon, where the Yukon River carves its way through towering volcanic rock formations, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Hikers will marvel at the sheer scale and power of this geological masterpiece, as they traverse the well-marked trails and take in the breathtaking vistas.

The journey then continues to the serene Emerald Lake, a true gem nestled amidst the rugged mountain landscape, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and forests in a display of pure natural beauty.

Visitors will be enchanted by the vibrant emerald hue of the lake, a result of the glacial flour suspended in the water, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable sight.

Carcross Desert Discovery

After exploring the stunning natural beauty of Miles Canyon and Emerald Lake, the tour heads to the unexpected wonder of the Carcross Desert, a unique desert landscape nestled in the heart of Canada’s northern wilderness.

Visitors will be amazed as they discover this small but captivating desert, where the arid, sandy terrain stands in stark contrast to the surrounding lush, alpine environment.

The Carcross Desert features:

• Vast, rolling sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see
• A rich diversity of desert-adapted plants and wildlife, including the rare Baikal sedge
• Remnants of the area’s gold rush history, with old mining equipment and trail markers
• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes
• Opportunities to hike, explore, and truly take in this otherworldly desert ecosystem.

Inclusions and Meeting Point

This full-day Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour includes a variety of thoughtful inclusions to enhance the experience.

Travelers will enjoy complimentary snacks and bottled water throughout the day, as well as transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

The tour meets at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse, with the experience returning to this starting point at the end of the day.

Gratuities are also covered, ensuring a seamless and worry-free adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the great outdoors, this tour provides a convenient and inclusive way to explore the stunning landscapes of Carcross and the Southern Lakes region of the Yukon.

Cancellation Policy Overview

Travelers can cancel their Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but any cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time are non-refundable.

Should the tour get called off due to poor weather conditions, the tour operator will offer either a different date or a full refund.

Plus, if the minimum number of required travelers isn’t met, the operator may cancel the tour, in which case they’ll provide a different date/experience or a complete refund.

The cancellation policy for this tour is straightforward:

• Cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Cancellations less than 24 hours are non-refundable
• Rescheduled or full refund if canceled due to poor weather
• Rescheduled or full refund if canceled due to minimum travelers not met
• Tour operator is transparent about their cancellation policies

Accessibility and Fitness Level

The Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s well-suited for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level.

This full-day adventure explores the grandeur of Canada’s Yukon Territory, showcasing natural wonders like Miles Canyon, Emerald Lake, and the Carcross Desert.

While the tour starts and ends at a central meeting point, the hiking itself requires a reasonable level of stamina and mobility. Guests should be prepared for uneven terrain, inclines, and potentially changing weather conditions.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience as you discover the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

With the right preparation, this tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the Yukon’s beauty on foot.

Group Size and Operator

The Arctic Day: Carcross & Southern Lakes Hiking Tour caps group sizes at a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience as guests explore the Yukon’s breathtaking landscapes. Operated by the reputable Arctic Range Adventure company, this guided excursion provides a well-crafted itinerary that showcases the region’s natural wonders, from the dramatic Miles Canyon to the serene Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert.

Guests will be led by experienced, knowledgeable guides who offer in-depth insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.

The tour’s small-group format allows for flexibility, allowing guides to adjust the pace and focus based on the group’s interests and abilities.

Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable journey to and from the trailheads.

Complimentary snacks and bottled water are provided to keep explorers energized throughout the day.

The tour’s convenient meeting and pickup location at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse makes it easy for guests to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this hiking tour. The tour operator has a strict policy prohibiting pets to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Travelers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their furry companions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, welcoming travelers of all ages. However, it requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so very young children or elderly participants may find the hiking challenging. Families are encouraged to assess their abilities before booking.

What Is the Dress Code for the Hike?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and sun protection are advised to ensure a pleasant and safe experience on the trails.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour duration cannot be extended beyond the full-day excursion. The tour itinerary and logistics are predetermined, and extending the tour is not an option provided by the tour operator. Customers must adhere to the scheduled start and end times.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Absolutely, the tour operator offers private group bookings for this hiking excursion. Travelers can customize the itinerary and group size to suit their needs, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience in the scenic Southern Lakes region of the Yukon.

Recap

Enjoy the wild beauty of Canada’s north on this exceptional Yukon adventure.

From the charming town of Carcross to the awe-inspiring Emerald Lake, you’ll discover a land of contrasts and indigenous heritage.

With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and stunning vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the Southern Lakes region and the remarkable Carcross Desert.