Yukon is the smallest and westernmost of Canada’s three
territories. It has the smallest population of any province or territory in
Canada, with a population of 41,078 people. The name Yukon comes from the
Gwich’in word ‘Yu-kun-ah’ meaning “great river”, referring to the
Yukon River. Whitehorse is the territorial capital and Yukon’s only city. Both
English and French are the official languages of this territory.
The original inhabitants of Yukon are believed to have
arrived over 20,000 years ago by migrating from Asia. In the 18th century,
Russian explorers began to trade with the First Nations people, beginning the
establishment of trade relations throughout the region. The famous Klondike
Gold Rush began after gold was discovered near Dawson City in 1896. As a result
of the influx of people looking for gold, it was made a separate territory in
1898. Eventually Whitehorse became the largest city in the Yukon, and then the
capital in 1953.
Yukon’s historical major industry was mining (lead, zinc,
silver, gold, asbestos, and copper). Manufacturing- furniture, clothing, and
handicrafts, follows in importance. Hydroelectric power generation is backed by
Yukon Rivers. Tourism relies mainly on its natural environment and is a rapidly
expanding sector. Wilderness tourism—having activities such as river travel,
backpacking, and horseback riding—represents a large part of Yukon’s attraction
for tourists. The minimum wage per hour in Yukon is- 13.71CAD.
Some major roaming destination around Yukon is mentioned
below –
Yukon Wildlife Reserve– tour the preserve to learn about different species of
Arctic and boreal animals. Go through the three-mile ‘viewing loop’ on foot, by
ski, by snowshoe, or on a guided bus. See caribou, lynx, elk, bison, and more
in their distinct natural habitats, from wetlands to cliffs.
Miles Canyon– Gold seekers called it the Grand Canyon and used it as the
main passage when traveling North during the Gold Rush. This site provides
great hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing trails, as well as
opportunities to see a variety of wildlife.
Emerald Lake– Glaciers carved out Emerald Lake 14,000 years ago, and its
amazing green water and mountain range background make for truly picturesque
scenery, you must make a visit here.
S.S. Klondike– Restored to its original 1937-1940 appearance, this boat is
a popular destination for travelers who want to see what life was like for the
region’s early inhabitants. The Klondike was a huge ship and was used to carry
supplies and silver-lead ore to and from the mines before the area had any
roads.
Dawson City Museum– Travel through time, starting with the Yukon’s
First Peoples. You can learn about their nomadic lives, fur trade, first
non-Aboriginal settlements, and the Gold Rush.
