Whitehorse is the capital of the Yukon, home to two thirds of the territory's population. Established in 1900, two years after Dawson City, Whitehorse took its name from treacherous white water rapids in the area that explorers likened to the flowing manes of appaloosas. In 1942, the government began building the impressive Alaska Highway, which raised the profile and enhanced the strategic location of Whitehorse. Although the city is not large, it is home to many interesting attractions that tell of the territory's history.

Visit the MacBride Museum, a log cabin crammed with relics from the gold rush era and a large display of Yukon wildlife and minerals. Check out the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Center, an architecture and paleontology museum devoted to the last ice age when the Yukon was still linked to Asia by a land bridge called the Beringia. The SS Klondike is the largest steam wheeler ever to sail the Yukon. The original was destroyed after striking a reef in 1936, but it has been rebuilt and tours of the boat are popular with visitors.

For the more active tourist, guided historical tours as well as canoe and horseback tours are available to help you fully discover this land of possibilities! Take the spectacular 12-15 day canoe trip to Dawson City via the Yukon River, with supplies available from several outfitters in the city. Book accommodations in the city of Whitehorse, and explore the colourful history of this territory.