Guided Wilderness Expeditions into Yukon's Heart
Venture deeper into the Arctic wilderness than ever before with Canada's most experienced expedition guides.
Choose Your Expedition Challenge
Moderate: 3-day guided hikes with comfortable wilderness camp stays. Focus on accessible trails and fundamental survival skills. Ideal for beginners.
Duration Options: 3, 5, 7, 10, 14 days available.
Group Size: Small groups (max 8) or private expeditions.
Choose Your Arctic Adventure Level
Moderate Expeditions
Experience the beauty of the Yukon with day hikes and comfortable wilderness camps. Focus on accessible trails, basic wildlife spotting, and fundamental outdoor skills. Perfect for those new to Arctic adventures or seeking a gentler pace. Enjoy warm cabins or well-equipped canvas tents.
- Guided day hikes
- Accessible wilderness camps (basic facilities)
- Basic wildlife identification
Challenging Backcountry
Venture deeper into the backcountry on multi-day treks. These expeditions involve wilderness camping, navigating more rugged terrains, and developing intermediate survival skills. Ideal for those with previous hiking experience seeking a greater challenge and immersion in untamed nature.
- Multi-day backcountry trekking
- Wilderness camping & survival skills
- Navigation & route finding
Extreme Fly-In Expeditions
For the ultimate adventurer, our extreme fly-in expeditions take you to untouched Arctic territories reachable only by bush plane. These are self-supported journeys requiring advanced physical fitness and mental resilience. Learn expert-level survival, glacier travel, and remote navigation techniques.
- Remote fly-in access
- Glacier travel & advanced survival
- Exploring untouched Arctic peaks
Learn from Arctic Wilderness Masters
Elara Stonehand
Lead Expedition Guide, Indigenous Knowledge Keeper
With over 20 years navigating the Yukon's most remote regions, Elara brings unparalleled expertise in traditional tracking, plant identification, and cultural sensitivity. Her deep connection to the land enriches every expedition.
- Advanced Wilderness First Aid
- Arctic Safety & Survival
- Certified Cultural Interpreter
Finn O'Connell
Glacial & Mountain Specialist, Geologist
Finn's passion for the geological history of the Arctic is infectious. An expert in glacier travel and high-altitude navigation, he ensures our extreme expeditions are not only safe but also incredibly insightful.
- 15+ years Arctic Expedition Experience
- Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue
- MSc. Arctic Geology
Sara Jenkins
Wildlife Tracking & Photography Expert
Sara combines her deep knowledge of Arctic wildlife behavior with professional photography skills. She helps guests not only spot unique species but also capture breathtaking images respectfully and ethically.
- Certified Wildlife Tracker
- Professional Nature Photographer
- Wilderness First Responder
Your Safety is Our Primary Mission
At Arctic Hearth, your well-being guides every decision we make. Our 100% safety record over 15 years in extreme Arctic conditions is a testament to our rigorous protocols and highly trained staff.
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Comprehensive Safety Protocols
Detailed risk assessments, emergency evacuation plans, and continuous weather monitoring keep us ahead of any challenge.
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Advanced Communication Systems
Every expedition carries satellite phones, GPS beacons, and emergency shelters, ensuring constant contact and rapid response capabilities.
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Expert Medical & Rescue Training
All guides hold advanced wilderness first aid and rescue certifications, ready to handle any situation calmly and effectively.
Sample Expedition Itineraries
Explore what a typical day holds on our expert-led journeys. Each itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize immersion, learning, and unforgettable moments.
Day 1: Arrival & Orientation. Meet your guide in Whitehorse, transfer to a comfortable wilderness cabin near Kluane National Park. Afternoon safety briefing, gear check, and a short guided nature walk introducing taiga flora. Evening campfire and Northern Lights viewing (seasonal).
Day 2: Lakeside Exploration. Full-day hike along the shores of a pristine glacial lake, offering stunning views of distant peaks. Learn basic wildlife tracking and local plant uses. Picnic lunch by the water. Optional photography workshop on landscape composition.
Day 3: Ridge Trail & Departure. Morning trek up a gentle ridge for panoramic views of the vast Yukon wilderness. Practice fire-starting techniques and basic navigation. Return to Whitehorse in the afternoon.
Includes: expert guide, all meals, cabin accommodation, local transfers, basic gear.
Day 1-2: Inundated Valleys. Fly-in to a remote airstrip near Tombstone. Begin trekking through ancient glacial valleys, setting up wilderness camps each night. Focus on river crossings, map reading, and Leave No Trace principles.
Day 3-4: Ridge Traversing & Wildlife. Ascend to higher ridges, offering views of the iconic 'Tombstone' peaks. Prime opportunities for Dall Sheep and caribou spotting. Learn advanced wilderness cooking and bear safety.
Day 5-6: Alpine Lakes & Rock Formations. Explore unique geological formations and pristine alpine lakes. Practice advanced navigation with compass and GPS. Evening photography session of the dramatic mountain light.
Day 7: Descent & Departure. Final descent back to the pickup point, reflecting on a profound journey. Farewell dinner in Dawson City before transfer to Whitehorse.
Includes: expert guide, all dehydrated meals, group camping gear, bush plane transfer, local transfers. Personal gear required.
Day 1-2: Staging & Fly-in. Gear check and final briefing in Haines Junction. Bush plane transfer to a glacier landing site deep within the St. Elias Range. Establish base camp and review ice travel techniques.
Day 3-6: Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue. Intensive training and practice in roped glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and ice axe arrest. Explore ice caves and séracs under expert supervision. Remote wilderness camping on snow and ice.
Day 7-8: Summit Attempt. Guided ascent of a remote, unnamed peak (weather permitting), showcasing breathtaking panoramic views. Focus on advanced mountaineering skills and decision-making in extreme environments.
Day 9-10: Descent & Departure. Return to base camp, breakdown, and bush plane extraction. Celebration dinner and reflection on an extraordinary achievement.
Includes: expert mountaineering guides, specialized glacier equipment, freeze-dried meals, bush plane transfers. Extensive personal mountaineering gear required. Pre-expedition fitness assessment mandatory.
Plan Your Expedition Season
The Arctic transforms with each season, offering unique experiences. Choose your preferred time of year to witness different natural wonders and embark on an adventure perfectly suited to the conditions.
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Spring (May-June): Awakening Wilderness
Witness the explosion of life as the snow melts. Prime time for migrating birds, emerging wildlife, and vibrant spring flora. Moderate conditions, ideal for longer treks.
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Summer (July-August): Midnight Sun Adventures
Experience endless daylight under the Midnight Sun. Best for high-alpine trekking, remote fly-in expeditions, and extensive flora exploration. Warmer temperatures, fewer insects at higher elevations.
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Autumn (September-October): Aurora & Fall Colours
The tundra explodes in fiery hues, and the Northern Lights begin their spectacular dance. Mild to cold conditions, perfect for photography and wildlife spotting against dramatic backdrops.
Wilderness Transformation Stories
"Discovering My True North" - Sarah L.
Challenging Backcountry Expedition, Summer 2023
"I signed up hoping to see some incredible landscapes, but I left with so much more. My Arctic Hearth expedition pushed me physically and mentally in ways I never imagined. Our guide, Finn, taught me resilience and a profound respect for the wilderness. Standing on that ridge after days of trekking, I felt a sense of accomplishment that changed my perspective on everything."
Read Sarah's Full Story
"Beyond the Lens: An Immersive Journey" - Mark T.
Arctic Photography Workshop & Moderate Taiga Trek, Autumn 2022
"As an avid photographer, I sought unique subjects. Arctic Hearth delivered beyond expectation. Sara's guidance on wildlife tracking and ethical photography was invaluable, leading to stunning shots of caribou and bears. But it was Elara's stories around the campfire, sharing Indigenous wisdom, that truly deepened my understanding of this land. A truly transformative experience."
See Mark's Photo GalleryReserve Your Wilderness Adventure
Ready to explore the pristine Yukon wilderness with Arctic Hearth? Our transparent pricing and flexible booking options make planning your dream expedition simple and stress-free.
Expedition Pricing Overview
| Expedition Type | Duration | Starting Price (CAD) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate Taiga Trek | 3-7 Days | $1,800 / person | Guide, meals, cabin/canvas tent, local transfers |
| Challenging Backcountry | 5-10 Days | $3,500 / person | Guide, dehydrated meals, group camping gear, local transfers |
| Extreme Glacier Traverse | 7-14 Days | $7,000 / person | Specialized guides, glacier equipment, freeze-dried meals, bush plane, local transfers |
* Prices are per person, based on group expeditions. Private expedition rates and group discounts available upon request. Equipment rental options provided.
Book Your Wilderness Expedition NowHave questions? Contact our adventure specialists.