Big Salmon River Expedition
A True Wilderness Adventure!Paddle from Quiet Lake to Carmacks – 354 km | 15 Days
Venture deep into the heart of the Yukon on one of its most breathtaking wild rivers—the Big Salmon River. Carving its way through the majestic Pelly Mountains and the Big Salmon Range, this narrow, winding river leads you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the territory before merging with the legendary Yukon River near Carmacks.
This journey is packed with surprises for both seasoned wilderness explorers and experienced paddlers. Guided by our expert team, even intermediate canoeists can take on the river’s natural challenges—sweepers, swift currents, and ever-changing waters—for an unforgettable adventure.
In August, the crystal-clear waters reveal a mesmerizing sight—King Salmon swimming beneath your canoe on their journey to their spawning grounds. A once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and wildlife photographers alike!
Big Salmon River Expedition – Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Whitehorse
Your adventure begins as your guide greets you at Whitehorse Airport and transfers you to your hotel. After check-in, we’ll meet for a trip briefing, where we’ll go over the details of your journey and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2: Into the Wild – Journey to Quiet Lake
We pick you up from your hotel and set off on a breathtaking drive along the Alaska Highway, passing Johnson’s Crossing before turning onto the scenic South Canol Road. This 230 km journey offers your first taste of Yukon’s vast wilderness. At Quiet Lake, far from civilization, we begin our canoe expedition. The first stretch crosses a series of small lakes, allowing us to get comfortable with the canoes before reaching the river.
Days 3–14: The Big Salmon River Adventure
Leaving the lakes behind, we enter the Big Salmon River, where the narrow, winding waters present our first challenges, including log jams that may require short portages depending on water levels.
As we paddle, the crystal-clear waters reveal King Salmon swimming beneath our canoes, an unforgettable sight for wildlife enthusiasts. Fishing opportunities abound, while the river gradually widens, allowing us to fully embrace the surrounding untamed wilderness.
After passing the South and North Fork, we reach the historic Yukon River, where remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush tell stories of the past. At Big Salmon Village, an old settlement, we catch glimpses of abandoned log cabins and former trading posts.
A highlight of the trip is our stop at Cyr’s Gold Dredge, where we take a lunch break and try our luck panning for gold flakes. The riverbanks shimmer with what appears to be gold—though much of it is pyrite, or “fool’s gold.”
As we approach Little Salmon Village, a traditional First Nations fish camp, we reconnect with civilization for the first time in days. From here, the river leads us to Carmacks, marking the end of our canoe journey. After loading our boats, we drive back to Whitehorse along the Klondike Highway and check in for one final night at our hotel.
Day 15: Farewell, Yukon
After an unforgettable adventure, we transfer you from your hotel to Whitehorse Airport, where we bid you a fond farewell—until your next Yukon expedition!
What’s Included:
Whitehorse Airport Shuttle – Convenient transfers at the start and end of your journey.
15-Day Adventure – Round-trip from Whitehorse, fully guided.
Expert English-Speaking Guide – Experienced and knowledgeable.
Small Group Experience – Personalized adventure with 2 to 12 participants.
All Overnight Fees Covered – 2 hotel nights & 12 nights camping under the stars.
Comfortable Camping Gear – Stay in two-person Dome Tents with Therm-A-Rest mats.
Complete Outdoor Equipment Provided – Everything you need for an unforgettable wilderness experience.
13-Day Guided Canoe Expedition – Paddle through the Big Salmon River & Yukon River.
Quality Canoe Gear – Includes a two-person canoe, 3 paddles, 2 life jackets, sponge, and bailer.
All Meals Included – Enjoy hearty, delicious meals throughout the tour.
All Transportation Provided – Seamless logistics from start to finish.
Emergency & Safety Equipment – Includes satellite communication for peace of mind.
Get ready for the ultimate Yukon adventure!
Not Included:
Airfare to/from Whitehorse
Hotel meals and meals during transportation
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses & tips
Sleeping bag (please bring your own)
Fishing license (required if you plan to fish)
Travel & cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
Make sure to pack accordingly and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
Dates, Prices & Availability
| Date: | Price: | Availability: |
| 14.07.2025 to 28.07.2025 | $2795 CAD | ✅ Available |
| 06.08.2025 to 20.08.2025 | $2795 CAD | ✅ Available |
🏕️ Additional Supplements:
- Single Room Supplement: $225 CAD
- Single Tent Supplement: $125 CAD
All prices are in Canadian dollars and subject to 5% GST.
Need more information? Or want to book this tour? Fill out our form! Click here!
