As the warmer weather descends upon us I’m reminded of the cooler weather elsewhere in Canada. This past winter I spent my co-op term working in Whitehorse, Yukon. When people hear that I worked in the Yukon the first thing they joke about is the weather, specifically how it must compare to the weather that was experienced here in Southern Ontario. I’ll let you in on a little secret, the Yukon is possibly Canada’s best kept secret.
Every year tourists from across Europe and Asia flood to the Yukon while other Canadians choose to travel abroad. Going to the Yukon was like traveling to another country to me; coming back though, I’d have to say I’ve never felt more Canadian. I didn’t understand why people traveled to the Yukon when I first got there but it soon became obvious.
I was surprised that the Yukon stereotypes I had imagined were true. Everyone up North owns a dog and a pick-up truck, dog sledding is a common pastime, as is cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There is a large sense of community up North; there’s always a helpful smile and frequent events.
The Yukon is a spectacular place. Fortunately for me, another UW student found a job up north and we became roommates. Between the two of us we managed to find opportunities to volunteer in the community and travel. My first adventure in the Yukon was just outside of Whitehorse, acting as a dog handler for a co-worker in Haines Junction. That weekend I stayed in a log cabin with no running water and 12 dogs. It was the first race for the white spotted pups in the photo. As per tradition, the team came in last and won the red lantern.
Another highlight of my trip was viewing the Northern lights on multiple occasions. I’ll let the photo speak for itself.
The Yukon is home to Dawson City, the heart of the gold rush. Dawson City is also home to a unique tradition, the Souetoe Cocktail. This is not a drink for everyone, even though it is a shot of any alcohol you’d like. The catch is you have to kiss a dead, human toe. Cringing? It’s not as bad as it seems, dead toe aside. It’s typically donated from a lovely person who had the unfortunate luck of losing a toe to frostbite. It’s not the most beautiful sight but once you’ve kissed the toe you are one step closer to becoming a true Yukoner!
I love the Yukon and will definitely be back there. Next time you’re in a new place, whether for co-op or not, get involved and travel! You won’t regret it.
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