The Yukon—an uncharted territory for many—was a place I had never truly heard of until we began planning our trip. As we researched, the remoteness and raw wilderness of this land became more apparent. With a population of just over 45,000 people, most of whom reside in the capital, Whitehorse, the Yukon is a place of contrasts: fierce winters with temperatures dipping to minus 50 degrees, vast untamed landscapes, and a resilient community of individuals whose way of life is shaped by their surroundings. This is a land where survival skills aren’t just useful—they’re essential. Bison meat often replaces the moose that’s more common in Alaska, and living here requires a deep connection to the land and the resources it provides.
Our adventure began with a long journey, crossing from Palmer, Alaska, and driving for hours until we arrived at Haines Junction, the first town you encounter when crossing the US-Alaska border into the Yukon. This small town, with just about 1,000 residents, was more than just a point on the map—it was the entryway to a vast, unspoiled wilderness. The journey itself was an experience, and we spent a night in Tok, Alaska, before crossing into Canada. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by Linda Thompson, a representative of ICEJ in the Yukon, who graciously hosted us at Bear Lodge. Nestled by a creek and surrounded by towering trees that had just begun to show their autumn hues, Bear Lodge provided a perfect retreat from the road’s weariness.
Linda, whose family was out mining for gold in Dawson Creek, shared stories of the Gold Rush era that still pulses through the veins of the region. Even after over 170 years, the lure of gold remains. But for the people of the Yukon, it’s not just about seeking fortune—it’s about resilience and survival in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
One of the highlights of our stay in Haines Junction was an unforgettable three-seater airplane, run by ride over Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to North America's tallest and youngest mountains. Soaring above the immense glaciers, we were in awe of the sheer size and beauty of the frozen landscapes. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of how small we are in the vastness of this wild, untouched world. The towering mountains and sprawling glaciers stretched as far as the eye could see—an iconic experience that truly felt like the heart of Canada, offered by a town few have ever heard of.
The flight was operated by the small airline Rocking Star Adventures and cost $450 per passenger for an hour-and-a-half flight.
Beyond the beauty of Haines Junction, the region offers transformative resilience programming, rooted in the power of nature’s healing force. After our time in Haines Junction, we journeyed onward to Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, just two hours away. Along the way, we were reminded of the wildness that defines this place—warnings of moose, elk, and the occasional bear roaming the roads. At dawn, our family was thrilled to spot a herd of elk, the children’s faces pressed eagerly to the windows as we marveled at the rare sight.
We continued our journey south, heading toward Liard Hot Springs in northern British Columbia. On the way, we encountered another rare treat: a herd of wild bison, once on the brink of extinction but now thriving thanks to years of conservation efforts. Watching these magnificent creatures roam freely across the land was both awe-inspiring and humbling, a reminder of the importance of preserving the balance of nature.
Liard Hot Springs itself was the perfect conclusion to our road-weary journey. Hidden deep in the wilderness, this natural spa offered a peaceful oasis. Surrounded by lush greenery, we soaked in the warm waters, allowing the heat to ease our tired muscles while the kids splashed playfully nearby. It was the perfect moment to reflect on the healing power of nature—an experience that reinforced the profound connection between mental wellness and the wild beauty of the world around us.
Haines Junction and the surrounding areas are not just destinations; they are places where resilience is forged in the wild, where communities thrive amidst adversity, and where nature’s healing power offers a transformative experience for all who visit. For those seeking recovery and renewal, these retreats provide more than just a break from the world—they offer a chance to reconnect with oneself in the embrace of the untamed wilderness.
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