Enter the Yukon Classroom for the Learning Adventure of a Lifetime

For adventurous travelers who yearn for a vacation that does more than exercise the body, the Yukon is an ideal classroom. With expert guides and careful instruction, visitors to the Yukon enrich their understanding of many different subjects, from the northern environment and wildlife viewing to botany and First Nations culture. Even the history of the gold rush offers plenty of intriguing facts and figures. And the Yukon method of book learning is only enhanced by the outdoors lessons available. Mountaineering, paddling and dog sledding are only a few of the fascinating physical adventures to be had.

Due North Journeys links guests to some of the most remote wilderness in the world, complete with spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, rich history and fascinating culture. Guests learn firsthand about critical habitat for many species of rare and endangered flowers, birds of prey and big-game animals. Participants learn about navigational techniques, Leave No Trace philosophy, and the indigenous peoples of the north and their fascinating connection to the land, sky and water.

Uncommon Journeys offers exactly that—unique opportunities to learn the fundamentals of expedition travel and a chance to be challenged. As the Yukon Branch of the Canadian Outward Bound School, Uncommon Journeys has offered canoe and hiking expeditions in the area for almost a decade. Whitewater paddling instruction, no-trace camping, off-trail navigation, and working as a valued team member are central to these experiences. Certified outdoor educators are passionate about sharing the wild side of the Yukon.

Learning adventures are the primary focus of Muktuk Kennels and Sled Dog Adventures, which feature Rookie Ranch, modeled on the North American concept of the dude ranch, where participation, action and learning are the primary ingredients for a fabulous experience. The Rookie Ranch program is designed for novice mushers who want to try dog sledding and accommodates participants of all ages and abilities. Keen novices can learn about nutrition, canine injury management, team motivation and other mushing matters. Even a true city slicker will be handling the team well by the end of the week.

Shadow Lake Expeditions offers guided trips for specific interests that change with the natural rhythm of the seasons. No generic fodder here! Subjects vary from man’s relationship to the northern environment to photography, sketching, birding, butterflies, mining history, wildlife and much more. The company’s expeditions are designed for people whoare naturally curious about the world around them and who are explorers at heart. Day trips and longer durations are available, and Shadow Lake can tailor tours to different physical needs.

Tucked between soft mountain ranges, Frances Lake offers its visitors an unusual variety of flora—an ideal place to learn how wildlife, plants and the land depend on one another. A well-known local naturalist accompanies guests on a special learning adventure that focuses on plant life. Guests are based at Frances Lake Wilderness Lodge during this invigorating learning vacation.

These are only a few of the many Yukon Wild learning adventures. Yukon Wild is a consortium of 26 independent companies offering some of the premier wilderness trips in the Yukon and surrounding areas. The consortium’s goal is to provide adventurous travelers with a central source of information about the range of activities that are possible in the North—one of the world’s last true wilderness destinations.

For more information about these unparalleled learning adventures, or any of Yukon Wild’s other outstanding offerings, call 867-668-3369 or visit www.yukonwild.com

July 30, 2004   Posted in: Canada