This One Tank Trip seen in the Woodall’s 2010 North American Campground Directory.
There’s a mystique about the Yukon that’s larger than life. The name itself conjures images of prospectors and fur trappers hauling their gear across miles of frozen snow, hardy and rugged spirits that struggled against the elements to tame a harsh, forbidding land and shape it into the civilized, awe-inspiring destination it is today.
Destruction Bay is easily one of the most colorfully-named towns in the Yukon, so-called because of the ferocious winds that blew down structures designed for highway construction during the early ’40s. Now, it’s a fantastic staging area for chartering a fishing trip on Kluane Lake, where catching a 40-pound trout is a definite possibility. Hike through the mountains overlooking the lake, or see the staggeringly awesome view from the top of a glacier. Make sure your camera’s charged and ready for photo opportunities; this area is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and the king of all birds – the eagle. This is a perfect place to kick off an adventure of Yukon camping.
Moving east on Alaska Highway 1, prepare to be amazed by the terrific views along 66 miles of highway until you come to the next one tank trip stop, Haines Junction. This small town is specifically geared towards accommodating the touring adventurer, providing guides and outfitters for your hike along the Dezadeash River Trail, followed by a snowmobile cruise through the Chikat Pass. Maybe you want to see the sights from the air; charter a small plane and let the knowledgeable pilot guide point out spots of interest on this snow-covered Ice Age terrain.
A drive 20 miles further east on Alaska Highway 1 brings you into Otter Falls. This quaint little community has everything you might need to resupply, along with spots to hook up the rig and enjoy the outdoors. After a 2-mile hike down the nature trail, stop off and investigate the local wildlife museum, with specimens from various species including bison, black bear, coyote and many, many others.
It’s an 80-mile scenic cruise on Highway 1 to the capital city of, Whitehorse, and the final stop on this route through the natural wonders of Yukon camping. You can expect to find fantastic opportunities to learn more about the Yukon’s history here in town, through museums and interpretive centers, while experiencing some incredible outdoor adventures like dog sledding, wildlife viewing, fly fishing, and cross-country skiing. Rent a kayak or take a guided tour of the Whitehorse River rapids, then relax after a hard day of tackling nature and feast your eyes on one of the magical sunsets that paint the Yukon’s skies with every color in the rainbow.
Enjoy the fruits of frontier labors and spend a one tank trip in the Yukon. It will forever change the way you think of this territory.
See a list of Woodall’s Recommended Yukon RV Campgrounds.
Planning a Yukon camping trip? Don’t miss these other great routes on one tank of fuel:
2009 Yukon One Tank Trip
2008 Yukon One Tank Trip
For a complete list of one tank trips visit Woodalls.com.
