The best traffic-free bike rides around Yukon

Our guide features 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Yukon. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, primarily centered around the Whitehorse area, providing a great way to explore the region's natural beauty without vehicle interference.

For those seeking an easy ride, the Yukon River – Shipyards Park loop from Whitehorse International Airport is a great option, covering about 7 km with minimal elevation gain. Another accessible choice is the Paddy's Pond – Ice Lake loop from Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport, which is around 8 km long and also features an easy difficulty grade.

Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop from Whitehorse. This route spans over 56 km and involves significant elevation changes, making it a difficult-grade tour suitable for experienced cyclists looking for a longer, traffic-free adventure.

Many routes, especially those around Whitehorse, follow the iconic Yukon River, offering stunning views. You can also expect to encounter pristine alpine meadows and potentially glaciers in various regions. The Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge is a notable attraction along the Yukon River, providing a scenic crossing over emerald-green waters.

The summer months are ideal for touring cycling in Yukon. The extended daylight hours, often referred to as the 'Midnight Sun,' provide ample time for riding and exploring. This season generally offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying the vast wilderness.

The shorter, easy-grade routes around Whitehorse are generally suitable for families. The Yukon River – Shipyards Park loop is a good example, offering a pleasant ride along the river with minimal traffic, connecting to downtown attractions and parks.

Elevation gain varies significantly by route. For easier rides like the Yukon River – Shipyards Park loop, you'll encounter minimal elevation gain, around 18 meters. More challenging routes, such as the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop, feature substantial climbs, with over 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout.

Many routes are close to significant attractions. Along the Yukon River, you can visit the Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge and the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site. The Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a prominent natural attraction in the region, offering opportunities for bikepacking amidst its mountains and rivers.

Yes, several routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Yukon River – Shipyards Park loop and the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop, providing convenient options for touring cyclists.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Yukon highly, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the sense of solitude and immersion in nature, the stunning natural scenery, and the unique experience of riding under the midnight sun during summer months.

Yes, the Whitehorse area, where many of these routes are located, is rich in history. The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site and the Whitehorse Waterfront Wharf are easily accessible and offer insights into the region's Klondike Gold Rush legacy.

The duration varies significantly. Shorter, easy routes like the Yukon River – Shipyards Park loop can be completed in under an hour, while longer, more difficult routes such as the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop may take over 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.