Situated in Canada's Northwest corner, up near the Arctic Circle, the Yukon is an untamed wilderness full of surprises. Each year a picturesque, snow filled winter wonderland shines under the glow of the greatest light show on Earth, the Northern Lights. One of North America's most undiscovered destinations, close to 80 percent remains pristine wilderness, the Yukon boasts one of the longest northern lights viewing seasons from mid-August to mid-April and optimal viewing times are between 10am-3pm.

Here's five hidden gems only found in the Yukon:

1. Haines Junction

This charming village is the gateway to Kluane National Park and Reserve, home to Canada's tallest peaks, icy glaciers, and wild expanses perfect for hiking, cycling, or soaking in the sheer vastness of nature from your lodge or campsite. The stunning Alsek River also flows through the area, offering opportunities for rafting and wildlife spotting. Visitors shouldn't miss Village Bakery, known for its famous summer salmon bakes with live music, this spot offers the perfect mix of Yukon flavours and homey vibes and join local storytellers for music and tales around a firepit at Kathleen Lake with Parks Canada.

2. Silver Trail Region

The Yukon is known for the iconic Klondike Gold Rush which started in 1885,but there's another side to the discovery, the silver side. Officially Highway 11, the more colourful name of the “Silver Trail” is a nod to the area's silver mining boom. Winding from the Stewart River Bridge through the Traditional Territory of the Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation, the paved road ends at Mayo and is unpaved past Elsa and Keno City. The historic Silver Trail offers an off-the-beaten-track experience in a landscape of placid lakes, rivers and mountain ranges. Visitors curious to learn more about this lesser-known chapter of the Yukon's past, head to the Binet House Museum in Mayo. The exhibits cover mining history, geology, permafrost science, and the Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation culture. From Mayo, take the scenic drive to tiny Keno City and step into a wonderfully offbeat history book. Keno Hill offers sweeping views over the rugged surrounding landscape, which is ideal for hiking. Outdoor enthusiasts can try fly-in fishing, rafting, or even wild swimming. Stop by Five Mile Lake, one of the warmest spots for a dip in the territory, with a campground nearby for those wanting to make it a weekend.

Bonus tip: Always be bear-aware in the wild!

3. The Carving Shed and Carcross

Tucked away in the small but spirited village of Carcross, visitors will find the Carving Shed, where local Tlingit and Tagish artists breathe life into traditional artforms. Stop in to see master carvers at work, creating vibrant totem poles and cultural pieces that tell the stories of the land and its people. Carcross itself is bursting with charm. Visitors can wander through the Carcross Commons, where they'll find local crafts, great coffee at Caribou Crossing Café, and souvenirs that actually mean something. Live music, salmon bakes and tasty treats await at Bistro on Bennett. If adventure is calling, don't miss the nearby world-famous Carcross Desert, the “world's tiniest desert,” or the amazing views at Montana Mountain, a trail mecca for hikers and mountain bikers alike. Between nature, art, and heartfelt Yukon hospitality, Carcross is a gem waiting to be explored

4. Dawson City's Hidden History

Iconic Dawson City is steeped in Gold Rush history, and nowhere is this more moving than its historic cemeteries. The cemetery walking tour is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who shaped this iconic town. Stroll through rows of weathered headstones and hear the stories of prospectors, pioneers, and dreamers who built their lives in the North. After exploring the cemeteries, dive into local culture at the Dawson City Museum, where exhibits bring the Gold Rush era vividly to life. For a modern twist, enjoy local food and drink at spots like Bombay Peggy's or BonTon & Co. Unwind with a scenic walk along the Yukon River, soaking in the stunning natural beauty. For a touch of entertainment, head to Diamond Tooth Gerties, Canada's oldest casino, where can-can dancers and old-school charm set the stage for a lively evening. Dawson City truly offers a rich mix of history, culture, and adventure.

5. River rafting of the Firth River

Nothing matches the thrill of rafting down the Firth River, where the scenery is straight out of a nature documentary. Flowing from the British Mountains to the Beaufort Sea, this iconic river offers a front-row seat to Yukon's incredible wildlife. Spot muskox, wolves, grizzlies, and more as you glide through wild landscapes that can't be matched. Visitors may even witness the breathtaking migration of the Porcupine caribou herd, 200,000 strong. These majestic creatures graze and roam their way through this remote region, making for one unforgettable moment. Booking through Canadian River Expeditions and Nahanni River Adventures is recommended to make this adventure safe and seamless.

Take me to explore the hidden gems in the Yukon with Journeyscape:

Journeyscape offers a 10-day Highlights of the Yukon fly drive package from £2169 per person, based on two people sharing. Price includes international flights, nine nights' accommodation (three nights in Whitehorse, two nights in Haines Junction, one night in Tok and three nights in Dawson City), car rental, meals as specified, excursions as specified, including entrance fees, and services of local representatives and guides as specified.

About Yukon:

Situated in the upper Northwest corner of Canada, next to Alaska, the Yukon is Canada's most accessible northern destination. Home to Canada's highest mountain (Mount Logan) and the planet's largest non-polar icefields located in Kluane National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of North America's most undiscovered destinations; close to 80 percent remains pristine wilderness with 5,000-metre peaks, forested valleys, unspoiled waters and untamed wildlife. Roughly the size of Spain at just over 186,000 square miles, the Yukon is home to more than 220,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzly bears, 10,000 black bears and 250 species of birds, with a human population of only 46,000.

For further information on the Yukon, visit www.travelyukon.com