Yukon is the smallest and westernmost of Canada’s three territories. Many people ask me “What to see in Yukon on the Alaska Highway?”, “What is the best place in the Yukon section of the road”, “What attraction is a must-see in YT?”, and “Do you have a bucket list to do on the Alaska Highway in the Yukon part”.
The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, runs through the Canadian province of Yukon, connecting the provinces of British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. The section of the highway in Yukon is known for its remote wilderness, beautiful scenery, and historic sites.
The highway runs through the scenic boreal forest, and visitors can see wildlife such as moose, caribou, and grizzly bears. Along the way, the highway also passes through several small towns and communities, including Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon and the largest city in the North.
Here is my list of the top six stops on the Yukon part of the Alaska Highway, in order of appearance. Each stop includes the name, mileage, a detailed description, helpful tips, address, and GPS coordinates. For more information, refer to my travel guide, “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”. Are you ready to discover my top choices for the best sights to see in Yukon, YT?
1. Sign Post Forest
HISTORIC MILE 635 (978 KM) WATSON LAKE, YUKON
GPS: 60.063341, -128.714075
ADDRESS: Mile 635, Alaska Hwy, Watson Lake, YT, Canada
Your first stop on Yukon during your trip on the Alaska Highway should be this great stop!
The Sign Post Forest is an iconic landmark along the Alaska Highway that should be on every traveler’s must-see list. Visitors from all over the world have been bringing signposts from their hometowns to the forest since 1942, creating a truly unique and fascinating display.
The tradition of the Sign Post Forest began during the construction of the Alaska Highway, when U.S. soldier Carl K. Lindley was asked to repair and erect directional signposts in Watson Lake while recovering from an injury. Lindley added a sign indicating the direction and mileage to his hometown of Danville, Illinois, and others followed suit, adding signs from their own hometowns. The trend caught on, and today there are over 80,000 signs in the forest, with more being added every year.
Walking through the Sign Post Forest is like taking a journey around the world, with signs from every corner of the globe representing towns and cities both big and small. It’s a testament to the spirit of travel and adventure that draws people to the Alaska Highway, and a reminder that no matter where we come from, we all share a common love of exploration and discovery.
So if you’re planning a trip along the Alaska Highway, be sure to stop by the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!
2. George Johnston Museum
HISTORIC MILE 804 (1244 KM) TESLIN, YUKON
GPS: 60.168207, -132.720583
ADDRESS: KM 1244 of the Alaska Highway 800 meters (0.5 miles) west of Nisutlin Bay Bridge, Teslin, YT Y0A 1B0, Canada
The George Johnston Museum in Teslin, Yukon is a must-see attraction for all travelers on the Alaska Highway. The museum is named after George Johnston, a Tlingit elder, trapper, fur trader, entrepreneur, and photographer who played an important role in the development of the area.
In the late 1930s, Johnston brought a car to Teslin and cut his own road along the lakeshore, where he ran a taxi service in the summer. When the US Public Roads Administration crews were surveying the route for the Alaska Highway in 1941, they incorporated Johnston’s road into their plan.
The George Johnston Museum showcases the history of the Inland Tlingit people and the rapid changes they experienced during the first half of the twentieth century. The museum features Johnston’s collection of photographs, a restored 1928 Chevrolet hunting car, and colorful exhibits of Tlingit ceremonial regalia.
Visiting the George Johnston Museum is an opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of the Inland Tlingit people, and to appreciate the legacy of George Johnston and his contributions to the development of the area. So if you’re planning a trip along the Alaska Highway, be sure to stop by the George Johnston Museum in Teslin. It’s a great place to learn, explore, and connect with the local community.
3. Miles Canyon
HISTORIC MILE 912 (1418 KM) Canyon Crescent, YUKON
GPS: 60.661443, -135.029358
ADDRESS: 60.661443, -135.029358
One of the best stops along the Alaska Highway in Yukon is Miles Canyon, a site with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Originally known as Kwanlin by the First Nations people who used it as a fishing camp, the area was later named Grand Canyon by Gold Rush prospectors who used it as a thoroughfare during their travels north.
In 1883, American military general Nelson Miles visited the area and it was named in his honor. Today, visitors can easily access Miles Canyon by foot or car, and the suspension bridge across the canyon, also known as the Robert Lowe Bridge, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Robert Lowe, after whom the bridge is named, came to the Yukon in 1899 and had mining interests in the Whitehorse Copper belt as well as a successful cartage business. He later became a long-serving local and territorial politician.
Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, Miles Canyon is a must-see destination along the Alaska Highway. So be sure to add it to your itinerary when planning your trip to Yukon.
4. MacBride Museum of Yukon History
HISTORIC MILE 918 (1419 KM) WHITEHORSE, YUKON
GPS: 60.721140, -135.051348
ADDRESS: 1124 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1A4, Canada
The MacBride Museum in Whitehorse, Yukon is definitely a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. The museum’s unique design, which features a cantilevered addition that extends over the original telegraph office, is a bold and impressive feat of modern architecture.
The museum’s collection of 40,000 objects is a testament to the rich and varied history of the Yukon, and the galleries offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. From the stories of the Yukon First Nations to the excitement and adventure of the Klondike Gold Rush, there is something here for everyone.
And let’s not forget about the gift shop! If you’re looking for a special souvenir or a unique Yukon treasure to take home, this is the place to go.
Overall, the MacBride Museum is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Yukon or traveling along the Alaska Highway. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to explore one of Canada’s most unique museums, this is a place you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
If you enjoy this museum, be sure to also check out my other post about the best museums along the Alaska Highway: Alaska Highway – TOP 8 BEST Must-Visit Museums Along ALCAN
5. Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre
HISTORIC MILE 1016 (1578 KM) HAINES JUNCTION, YUKON
GPS: 60.762678, -137.515628
ADDRESS: 280 Alaska Hwy, Haines Junction, YT Y0B 1L0, Canada
If you’re traveling along the Alaska Highway and looking for a truly unforgettable experience, a stop in Haines Junction and a visit to the Kluane National Park and Reserve should be at the top of your list.
Before embarking on a hike to see the stunning natural beauty of the park, a visit to the Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre is a must. Here, you can get expert advice on other activities in the area and gain insight into the park’s cultural and natural treasures.
Inside the Da Kų Cultural Centre, the Visitor Centre offers a wealth of information and exhibits to help you appreciate the park’s unique history and features. From historic footage of the first mountaineers to climb Mount Logan, to audio recordings of traditional stories told by First Nation elders, the centre provides an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the area.
One of the highlights of the Visitor Centre is the 3-D topographic model of the St. Elias Mountains, which allows visitors to get an up-close look at the park’s soaring peaks and vast icefields. It’s a truly stunning display that captures the majesty and beauty of this incredible region.
Overall, a visit to the Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre is a must for anyone traveling to Haines Junction or exploring the Alaska Highway. So why not add it to your itinerary and make some unforgettable memories on your next adventure?
Now you know What to see in the Yukon’s part of the ALCAN!
6. Soldier’s Summit
HISTORIC MILE 1061 (1651 KM) KLUANE LAKE, YUKON
GPS: 61.025365, -138.505513
ADDRESS: 61.025365, -138.505513
The Alaska Highway is a legendary road that stretches through some of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in North America, and it’s rich in history and culture. One of the best places to experience this history is at the site where two construction units met and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony opened the new Alaska Highway on November 20, 1942.
Located on a hill above the highway, this historic spot is a testament to the bravery and determination of the US Army regiments that built the road. It’s a place where visitors can step back in time and imagine what it must have been like to work on such an incredible engineering project during the height of World War II.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a grand event, with members of the Canadian and American military, RCMP officers in red serge, Alaskan and Canadian government representatives, and other dignitaries in attendance. It was a momentous occasion that marked the completion of a monumental task, and it’s a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the people who made it happen.
Today, visitors can explore the historic site and learn more about the construction of the Alaska Highway. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the past and a must-see destination for anyone traveling along this iconic road. So why not take a break from your journey and step back in time at this incredible historic spot?
This is must-see place on your trip in Yukon ALCAN
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the Alaska Highway in my travel guide, “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE ALASKA HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all Alaska Highway travelers. Visit 202 places on the ALCAN with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles Motorcycle Club and a keen traveler. He’s traveled the entirety of U. S. Route 66 seven times on his Harley-Davidson. He strives to interest others in the historic drive to keep the legendary Route 66 alive. He also traveled through the Alaska Highway. He is an author of bestseller books on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places” and “Alaska Highway – 202 Best Stops”.