Think back to the times of the world’s greatest gold rush when getting to Dawson was largely what it was all about. Back in 1898, there weren’t a lot of options for how to get here and comfort levels were about as low as you can go. Many didn’t make it and stayed where they were, giving rise to places like Skagway and Whitehorse. But for those who made it, their arrival in Dawson was itself a testament to their strength, endurance and fortitude.

Today, there are several ways to follow those brave souls who broke the trail to the Klondike. Assuming that you’ve made it to Whitehorse, journey on to Dawson City. 

Getting to Dawson City can be as easy as boarding a plane, or as magical as slipping canoes into Lake Bennett at the beginning of your week long journey down the Yukon River.

Driving the North Klondike Highway is easy whether by car, motorcycle or RV.  The well-serviced drive brings with it access to stunning vistas, wildlife viewing opportunities, access to the Dempster Highway, and Alaska via the Top of The World Highway.

Your options are endless, like the stories you’ll be able to tell about your Yukon Vacation!

By Air

Get a bird’s eye view of the wild and untamed Klondike scenery!  To fly into Dawson City you first have to get to Whitehorse, Yukon.

Air North, Yukon's Airline flies from Whitehorse to Dawson City and other northern communities. 

TransNorthern Aviation operates a fleet of aircraft available for charter to Dawson City and just about anywhere in Alaska.

To access the Yukon you can fly Air Canada within Canada, direct from Europe with Condor Airlines or with First Air through the Northwest Territories.

Finally, for all of you who might pilot your own aircraft, this website offers nav info for many airports and landing strips within Canada, including Dawson City!

By Car

Dawson City can be accessed via the beautiful and well-maintained Klondike Highway. (approx. 5 hours in summer and 6 hours in winter conditions).

Budget Rent-A-Car: (867) 667-6200
Norcan Leasing (National): (867) 668-2137 or 1-800-661-0445

Recreational Vehicle Rentals:
Fraserway RV: (867) 668-3438
Canadream RV: (867) 668-3610

By Road

Dawson City can be accessed from either the North Klondike Highway from Whitehorse or seasonally by the Top of the World Highway from Tok, Alaska.

From Whitehorse: (328 miles or 525 km), take the #2 North Klondike Highway.

From Alaska:  (105 kilometers or 66miles to Dawson from the US border), take the Top of the World Highway (Yukon Highway #9) which can be accessed from Taylor Highway (Alaska Highway #5).  Remember that the CAN/US border is seasonally open from 8am-8pm Alaska time and 9am-9pm Yukon time.   At the end of the road, a free ferry ride will take you across the Yukon River to Dawson.    The ferry operates 24 hours a day in the summer months.  This road is closed in the winter.

For up to date road conditions road conditions visit Government of Yukon,  Department of Highways: www.gov.yk.ca/roadreport/.

By Water

The Yukon River was the original highway to Dawson City.  Each summer, hundreds of visitors and locals canoe, kayak, or raft from Whitehorse or other upriver communities. Contact: www.travelyukon.com for listings of guides or watercraft rentals.