The best cycling routes around Yukon

Yukon offers a diverse range of touring cycling experiences, from leisurely rides along scenic lakefronts to challenging multi-day adventures through rugged mountain passes. You'll find routes traversing vast mountain ranges, expansive lakes like Emerald Lake and Kluane Lake, and the iconic Yukon River, often passing through boreal forests and unique geological formations such as the Carcross Desert and Miles Canyon.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride. For instance, the Yukon River loop from Riverdale is an easy 7.7 km path, ideal for a shorter, less strenuous outing. The Millennium Trail in Whitehorse is also a multi-use path along the Yukon River, suitable for leisurely rides with a mix of nature and city views.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can cycle past the striking green waters of Emerald Lake, explore the dramatic basaltic lava flows of Miles Canyon, or witness the unique sand dunes of the Carcross Desert. The Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, also offers breathtaking mountain and icefield views, accessible from some touring routes.

Yes, several routes offer a circular experience, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular option is the Whitehorse Dam – Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge loop from Yukon Arts Centre, a moderate 26.6 km trail. For a much longer adventure, the Golden Circle Route is a popular 580 km loop connecting Whitehorse, Skagway (Alaska), and Haines (Alaska), offering spectacular mountain landscapes.

The best time for touring cycling in Yukon is generally during the summer months, from late May to early September, when the weather is mildest and daylight hours are long. This period offers the most favorable conditions for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Absolutely. For those seeking multi-day challenges, you can undertake rides to Dawson City, following routes historically used by Klondike gold seekers. The Golden Circle Route, a 580 km loop, is another excellent option for an extended tour, offering high alpine roads and views of glaciers. Long stretches of scenic highways, like the Alaska Highway, also appeal to distance riders.

Yukon is rich in wildlife. Cyclists might encounter various animals, especially on more remote routes. The Yukon Wildlife Preserve allows visitors to observe Canadian wildlife like Dall sheep, mountain goats, elk, musk-ox, moose, and lynx in their natural habitats, and these animals can sometimes be seen in the broader wilderness areas.

Yes, there are several moderate routes. The Shipyards Park – Yukon River loop from Whitehorse is a moderate 47.0 km path that follows the Yukon River, providing a mix of natural scenery and urban views. Another good option is the Whitehorse Dam – Rotary Centennial Bridge loop from Whitehorse, a moderate 37.2 km route.

The touring cycling routes in Yukon are generally well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the extensive views along the Yukon River and the unique blend of natural scenery and urban accessibility found on many paths.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop from Whitehorse is a difficult 56.6 km trail that offers extensive views along the Yukon River. The Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay route, a challenging 238 km ride between Haines Junction and Haines, Alaska, is also known for its expansive wilderness and demanding terrain.

Yes, several routes pass by significant historical sites. You can cycle past the Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge, a testament to the Yukon River's power, or visit the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site, offering a glimpse into the region's gold rush history. The Five Finger Rapids are also a notable natural and historical landmark.