Yukon offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, with vast areas untouched by development.

Most of the territory lacks cell phone coverage, making safety and preparedness essential for backcountry explorers. Traveling in this region comes with inherent risks, so visitors must take personal responsibility for their safety.

Follow "Leave No Trace" Principles

Plan ahead and prepare

Dear Lykkers, preparation is the cornerstone of a safe and respectful trip. Advance planning minimizes damage to the fragile northern ecosystem and ensures a memorable experience.

Refer to Into the Yukon Wilderness, available at Visitor Information Centres, for Yukon-specific safety guidelines.

Access principles, videos, and courses on Leave No Trace Canada.

Consult Walk With Us for Yukon First Nations' perspectives on respectful travel.

Consider guided trips

Licensed wilderness guides offer expertise and safety for an unforgettable adventure.

Travel Safely in the Yukon Wilderness

Develop necessary backcountry skills

Adequate training in outdoor recreation is vital. Courses or experienced companions can provide the knowledge needed for safe travel.

Avoid traveling alone

Group travel is safer. Stay together, moving at the pace of the slowest member, and maintain visual contact.

Plan your route thoroughly

Marked trails and boating routes are scarce. Research using guidebooks, topographic maps, and advice from Visitor Information Centres.

Share your travel plan

Inform someone in Yukon about your route, schedule, and equipment details. Use online trip plans or printed versions to aid in potential rescue efforts.

Essential Gear for Backcountry Travel

Carry survival essentials

Equip yourself with a day pack or belt bag containing:

Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries

Fire-making kit

Signaling devices like a whistle

Extra food and water

Weather-appropriate clothing

Navigation and communication aids

First aid kit

Emergency shelter (such as an orange tarp)

Bear deterrents

Test equipment beforehand

Ensure familiarity with all gear, including navigation tools and survival kits, before heading out.

Be Prepared for Yukon’s Challenges

Navigate steep terrain and adverse weather

Pack appropriately and prepare for sudden weather changes. Check emergency updates before starting your trip.

Practice wildlife safety

Maintain a respectful distance from animals, control pets, and learn bear safety practices, such as securing food away from campsites and using bear deterrents effectively.

Handle Medical Emergencies

Prepare for isolation

Train in wilderness first aid and carry a waterproof medical kit. Be prepared to treat conditions like hypothermia, allergies, and insect bites.

Prepare for Rescue

Carry communication devices

Bring a satellite phone, two-way personal locator, or radio for contacting emergency services. Equip yourself with signal mirrors, whistles, or flares for pinpointing your location.

Understand distress beacon use

Distress beacons broadcast emergency signals but may involve relays through call centers, causing delays. Activate only in genuine emergencies, as rescues require significant resources and time.

Account for delayed rescue efforts

Expect rescue operations to take hours or even days due to Yukon’s remote terrain and weather conditions.

Prepare thoroughly to enjoy the awe-inspiring Yukon wilderness responsibly and safely!