Outdoors
Yukon River Day Paddle
You paddle downstream on the Yukon River from downtown Whitehorse to where the Takhini River joins it, on the stretch that leads on towards Lake Laberge. Outfitters describe the river here as Class I, suitable for people with basic canoeing skills.
- Where
- Yukon, Canada
- Distance
- 24 km one way
- Time
- 3-4 hours
The route
Whitehorse to the Takhini River confluence.
Most people rent from an outfitter such as Kanoe People, on the riverbank at 1147 Front Street in downtown Whitehorse. Its self-guided trip leaves daily at 10:00 or 11:30 and includes a pickup at the Takhini River at a set time; guided versions are also offered.
Before you go
- Book ahead: self-guided rentals need at least two people, and the outfitter sets your pickup time at the Takhini River.
- For a shorter trip, the same outfitter runs 8 km from Miles Canyon to Schwatka Lake (2-3 hours).
- For a full day, it also runs 46 km from Marsh Lake through Miles Canyon to Schwatka Lake (about 6 hours).
What to bring
- A buoyancy aid, worn rather than stowed
- A dry bag for your phone and keys
- Water and snacks
- Sun cream, a hat and sunglasses
- A warm layer, even on a hot day
Getting ready for it
Paddling works your back, shoulders and core more than your arms.
A few weeks of rows, pull-ups or pulldowns and some rotational core work will make a full day far more comfortable.
Staying safe
- Check the wind and water forecast before launching.
- Tell someone your route and when you expect to be back.
Route details checked September 30, 2026 against kanoepeople.com, kanoepeople.com, kanoepeople.com, kanoepeople.com and en.wikipedia.org. Rules and closures change, so check before you go.
