by Turo
posted on July 14, 2025
The Whitehorse to Dawson City drive takes you through Yukon’s vast wilderness, where history and rugged landscapes meet around every corner. This road trip guide covers practical tips and some must-see stops so you can travel at your own pace and take in the journey.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Tips for driving from Whitehorse to Dawson City, Yukon
- How are the road conditions between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
- What is the best time of year to drive from Whitehorse to Dawson City?
- Are there EV chargers along the way between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
- Where to stop while driving from Whitehorse to Dawson City, YT
- Frequently asked questions about the Whitehorse to Dawson City road trip
- Book your rental car in Whitehorse with Turo
Tips for driving from Whitehorse to Dawson City, Yukon
The famous Klondike Highway runs over 500 km through remote stretches of Yukon wilderness. Before you leave Whitehorse, fill your tank, pack water, and bring extra supplies. Watch for wildlife and allow time for stops.
How are the road conditions between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
Most of the Klondike Highway is paved and maintained through the warmer months, but sections can get rough, especially north of Carmacks. Spring and fall may bring washouts or delays, so it’s smart to check road reports before heading out.
What is the best time of year to drive from Whitehorse to Dawson City?
Summer and early fall are the safest seasons to make the trip. Roads are dry, daylight is long, and services are more consistent. Early autumn brings cooler air and some of the best fall colours in Canada.
Are there EV chargers along the way between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
Charging options are limited once you leave Whitehorse. While there are growing networks in Yukon, drivers of electric vehicles should plan to charge fully in Whitehorse and Dawson City.
Where to stop while driving from Whitehorse to Dawson City, YT
Driving from Whitehorse to Dawson City gives you a front row seat to see Yukon’s wild side up close. Here are some stops along the way that break up the drive and make the journey feel like its own adventure.
Yukon Wildlife Preserve
The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is just north of Whitehorse, and gives you a chance to see bison, moose, caribou, and other northern animals up close. Trails wind through the grounds, and guided bus tours run year-round.
- Distance from Whitehorse: 25 km (~20 minutes)
- Distance to Dawson City: 505 km (~6 hours)
Why it’s great
Check out some amazing Yukon wildlife in large, natural enclosures. It’s family-friendly, laid-back, and makes for a memorable start to your drive.
Practical tips
The preserve is open year-round. Bring layers, good walking shoes, and a camera. Tours fill up fast in summer – book ahead if you want a guided ride.
How to get there
Head north on the Klondike Highway, then follow signs to the preserve entrance. If you’re taking the kids on a road trip, a minivan rental from Chrysler or Honda gives you plenty of room for gear and comfortable seating. Book your Whitehorse airport car rental on Turo and start the trip right after landing.
Takhini Hot Springs
Takhini Hot Springs is a natural geothermal pool about 30 km from Whitehorse, and not far from the wildlife preserve. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it’s a relaxing break before the long drive north.
- Distance from Whitehorse: 30 km (~30 minutes)
- Distance to Dawson City: 500 km (~6 hours)
Why it’s great
Warm mineral water and open views make this a perfect stop to recharge. It’s open year-round, with modern changing facilities and outdoor seating areas.
Practical tips
The springs can get busy on weekends, so mornings are quieter. EV chargers are available at the entrance, making it easy for electric drivers to top up.
How to get there
Drive west on the Alaska Highway, then follow Takhini Hot Springs Road. Make your Whitehorse rental car an electric vehicle like a Tesla or Chevrolet and charge up for the long drive while the stresses of travel melt away in the water.
Braeburn Lodge
About 100 km north of Whitehorse, Braeburn Lodge is famous for its giant cinnamon buns and warm hospitality. It’s a cozy, nostalgic stop that makes you feel welcome after a day behind the wheel.
- Distance from Whitehorse: 110 km (~1.25 hours)
- Distance to Dawson City: 420 km (~5 hours)
Why it’s great
The lodge mixes classic Yukon charm with comfort. The oversized cinnamon buns alone are worth a stop – they’re legendary!
Practical tips
The lodge offers seating inside and picnic tables outside. It can get busy mid-morning, so arriving earlier helps.
How to get there
Continue north on the Klondike Highway and watch for the clearly marked turn-off to Braeburn Lodge. For comfort and a smooth ride, a Toyota or Subaru SUV makes sense. They handle the highway well and leave room for snacks and souvenirs.
Five Finger Rapids
Five Finger Rapids is roughly halfway between Whitehorse and Dawson City along the Klondike Highway. A wooden staircase and trail lead down to a viewpoint over the churning water that once challenged gold rush paddlewheelers.
- Distance from Whitehorse: 260 km (~3.5 hours)
- Distance to Dawson City: 270 km (~3.5 hours)
Why it’s great
It’s one of the route’s most dramatic natural landmarks in the territory, and offers an unforgettable trail experience.
Practical tips
Parking is limited and tight, especially in summer. Wear sturdy shoes for the trail and bring water. The stairs can be steep and slippery after rain.
How to get there
Head north on the Klondike Highway. The pull-off is clearly signed near kilometre marker 380. Choosing a compact car rental is a great option here. Sporty models from Nissan, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz hug the winding road and make parking and maneuvering into the lot easier.
Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site
Once the powerhouse of the gold rush at Bonanza Creek, this eight-storey dredge now stands silent, giving visitors a close look at Klondike engineering and the scale of early gold mining.
- Distance from Whitehorse: 527 km (~6 h 45 min)
- Distance to Dawson City: 8 km (~15 min)
Why it’s great
Few places lay out the gold rush story as clearly. Walking through the dredge shows exactly how dirt turned into fortunes.
Practical tips
Guided tours run from mid-May to mid-September. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a light jacket. Allow about an hour for the full walkthrough.
How to get there
From Dawson City, drive west along Bonanza Creek Road. The last stretch is graded gravel with occasional washboard. Make your rental car in Whitehorse an all-wheel drive vehicle like a pickup truck or a Jeep for extra traction and clearance so rough patches won’t slow you down.
Frequently asked questions about the Whitehorse to Dawson road trip
Where is Dawson City?
Dawson City sits on a wide bend of the Yukon River in northwestern Canada, about 530 km (330 mi) north of Whitehorse and 240 km (150 mi) south of the Arctic Circle. The town grew out of the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush and still carries that frontier character in its wooden boardwalks, colourful false fronts, and summer midnight sun.
Most travellers drive up the Klondike Highway or fly in on Air North to Dawson City Airport. Book your Whitehorse or Dawson City airport car rental with Turo and get right to the historic sites and back-country roads that make Yukon so special.
How long is the drive from Whitehorse to Dawson City?
Without long stops, the 530 km drive from Whitehorse to Dawson usually takes 6–7 hours on the Klondike Highway.
Is the road from Whitehorse to Dawson City paved?
Yes – almost the entire Klondike Highway is paved. Expect brief gravel or rough patches north of Carmacks, where frost heaves or construction pop up.
Are there gas stations between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
Fuel stops are spaced out. You’ll find service at Braeburn Lodge, Carmacks, Pelly Crossing, and Stewart Crossing. Top up whenever you can, just to be safe.
What is there to see between Whitehorse and Dawson City?
So much – long river valleys, rolling boreal forest, and wide-open sky dominate the route. Keep an eye out for moose near wetlands and sudden glimpses of the Yukon River shining through the trees.
Book your rental car in Whitehorse with Turo
Skip the rental counter and step straight into the car you actually want. On Turo, hosts deliver to the airport, hotel, or your driveway, so the Klondike Highway is yours the moment you grab your bags. Choose the vehicle that best suits your style and let Yukon open up in front of you!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
