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gold mining, yukon

The Ultimate Yukon Gold Mining Bucket List: Must-Visit Sites and Attractions

Howdy there, it’s Terry again! If you’re anything like me and have a passion for gold, history, and adventure, then I’ve got a treat for you. Here’s my Ultimate Yukon Gold Mining Bucket List of must-visit sites and attractions:

1. Klondike Gold Fields

Start your adventure in the heart of the Yukon, where the great Klondike Gold Rush began. Here, you can visit the Discovery Claim, walk in the footsteps of the Stampeders on the Chilkoot Trail, and try your hand at panning for gold at Claim No. 6.

Visit Klondike Gold Fields

2. Dawson City

This vibrant town was the epicenter of the Klondike Gold Rush and is a treasure trove of history. Check out the Dawson City Museum, Jack London Museum, and Robert Service Cabin. And don’t miss Diamond Tooth Gerties, Canada’s oldest casino, where the Gold Rush spirit lives on.

Explore Dawson City

3. Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site

Just outside of Dawson City, you’ll find the colossal Dredge No. 4. Once a key gold mining machine, it’s now a National Historic Site offering guided tours that reveal the inner workings of gold dredging.

Visit Dredge No. 4

4. Goldbottom Mine Tour

Experience the modern day gold mining operations and try panning for gold at Goldbottom Mine. It’s an active placer gold mine with rich history and beautiful landscape.

Book Goldbottom Mine Tour

5. The SS Klondike National Historic Site

In Whitehorse, you can explore the SS Klondike, a sternwheeler that once transported gold miners and their precious cargo. Walk its decks and imagine the bustling activity it saw during its heyday.

Visit SS Klondike

6. Kluane National Park

Although not directly related to gold mining, no trip to the Yukon would be complete without visiting this breathtaking park. With its stunning glaciers, high mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s pure Yukon gold.

Explore Kluane National Park

7. Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

Take a prehistoric detour at this amazing interpretive centre in Whitehorse, where you can learn about Yukon’s ice-age history and the people who mined the land long before we did.

Visit Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

These are just a few of the gold nuggets that Yukon has to offer. So pack your adventurous spirit, and embark on the ultimate Yukon gold mining bucket list journey. You won’t be disappointed!

treasure hunting, yukon

The Biggest Gold Finds in Yukon History

Hey there, fellow gold enthusiasts, Terry here again! Today, we’re taking a trip back in time to revisit some of the biggest gold finds in Yukon history. Grab your pickaxe and let’s dig in!

1. The Discovery Claim

Our first stop is Bonanza Creek, formerly known as Rabbit Creek, where it all started in 1896. This is where George Carmack, Dawson Charlie, and Skookum Jim found gold nuggets while fishing, kicking off the legendary Klondike Gold Rush. The claim they staked became known as the Discovery Claim. This site, now a National Historic Site, yielded over 25,000 ounces of gold in the first year alone.

Source: Klondike Visitors Association

2. King Solomon’s Dome

One of the earliest and most persistent legends in the Yukon gold lore is King Solomon’s Dome. This rounded hill visible from Dawson City has been associated with stories of immense gold deposits since the gold rush days. Although the hill itself has not yielded any notable gold finds, it is considered the source of the gold found in the creeks below.

Source: Yukon Archives

3. The Irishman’s Find

In 1989, an amateur prospector and mechanic named Normandy Peever, also known as “The Irishman,” discovered a gold nugget weighing over 72 ounces in the Fortymile mining district. This was one of the largest gold nuggets found in the Yukon in the 20th century.

Source: ExploreNorth

4. The White Gold District

In 2009, prospector Shawn Ryan discovered significant gold deposits in the White Gold District, leading to a modern-day gold rush. Ryan’s findings have led to several commercial mining operations in the area that continue to unearth substantial quantities of gold.

Source: Yukon Gold Mining Alliance

Yukon’s history is rich with tales of monumental gold finds, and who knows—you could be the next person to strike it big! If these stories of success have you itching to start your gold prospecting journey, remember to always respect the land, the laws, and the rights of others. Happy hunting!

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Most beautiful places to visit in the Yukon

Howdy, folks! Terry here.

The Yukon is so much more than gold mines and prospecting – it’s a land of breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance that can stir the soul of any traveler. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Yukon:

1. Kluane National Park and Reserve: Home to Canada’s highest mountain, Mount Logan, Kluane National Park is a stunning wilderness area filled with rugged peaks, vast glaciers, and a diverse range of wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to explore the park’s trails or enjoy a bird’s-eye view with a flightseeing tour.

2. Emerald Lake: As the name suggests, Emerald Lake is famous for its vibrant, emerald-colored waters. It’s one of the Yukon’s most photographed sites, and you’ll understand why once you see it in person. Pack a picnic and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

3. Miles Canyon: Carved by the mighty Yukon River, Miles Canyon offers scenic walking trails that offer spectacular views of the river’s turquoise waters against stark basalt cliffs. The Robert Lowe Suspension Bridge adds a touch of historical intrigue to the natural beauty.

4. Dawson City: This charming town is a living testament to the Klondike Gold Rush era, with well-preserved wooden buildings, vintage boardwalks, and old-time saloons. Its location along the Yukon River, against the backdrop of the surrounding wilderness, adds to its allure.

5. Tombstone Territorial Park: Known as the “Patagonia of the North,” Tombstone Territorial Park is breathtakingly beautiful with its rugged peaks, tundra landscapes, and vibrant autumn colors. Don’t forget your camera when visiting this place!

6. Southern Lakes Region: This region is home to some of the Yukon’s most picturesque lakes, including Tagish, Marsh, and Atlin Lakes. They’re perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty.

7. Takhini Hot Springs: Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Yukon wilderness, Takhini Hot Springs is the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventures. Enjoy the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters while admiring the beautiful natural surroundings.

8. Carcross Desert: Yes, you heard it right! The Yukon is home to the world’s smallest desert. Just outside the quaint village of Carcross, these unique sand dunes provide a beautiful and unexpected landscape to explore.

9. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Last, but certainly not least, no visit to the Yukon would be complete without witnessing the magic of the Northern Lights. They’re visible from many parts of the region, but for a truly unforgettable experience, consider a guided night tour.

The Yukon is a place of diverse, raw beauty that’s just waiting to be explored. Each of these sites offers a unique way to appreciate it. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and I’ll see you in the Yukon!

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Yukon adventure travel tours 2023

Hello, adventurous souls! Terry here.

While I usually talk about gold prospecting, I thought I’d take a detour and share about the other wonders of the Yukon, my home turf. It’s not just about the glint of gold here; the Yukon is a treasure trove of exciting adventures waiting to unfold. Today, I’m highlighting some of the best adventure travel tours that will let you experience the true spirit of the Yukon. Let’s dig in!

1. Yukon River: Classic Canoeing Adventure (with Yukon Wide Adventures)

The Yukon River, the third-longest river in North America, is a significant part of our region’s history and landscape. Yukon Wide Adventures offers a 20-day canoeing adventure that takes you on a historical journey following the route of the 1898 Gold Rush. You’ll paddle past relics of the past, enjoy wildlife viewing, and camp under the midnight sun.

2. Kluane National Park: Flightseeing Tour (Kluane Glacier Tours)

Kluane National Park is home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kluane Glacier Tours offers flightseeing tours, an adventure not to be missed. Soaring over glacier-filled landscapes and stunning peaks is an unforgettable experience.

3. Dempster Highway: Self-Drive Adventure (Arctic Range Adventure)

For those who prefer the thrill of driving, Arctic Range Adventure offers a self-drive tour along the Dempster Highway, Canada’s only all-season road across the Arctic Circle. You’ll see breathtaking tundra landscapes, witness wildlife in their natural habitat, and visit indigenous communities along the way.

4. Dawson City: Gold Panning and Historical Tour (Klondike Experience)

If you’re a history buff like me, Klondike Experience’s tour in Dawson City is a must. You’ll visit historic sites, try your hand at gold panning, and even enjoy a traditional sourdough pancake breakfast. Dawson City, known as the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, is like a living museum.

5. Yukon Wildlife: Animal Viewing Adventure (Yukon Wildlife Preserve)

The Yukon Wildlife Preserve offers guided bus tours through their 700-acre property where you’ll get up close with 13 species of northern Canadian mammals in their natural habitat, including caribou, lynx, and muskoxen.

6. Northern Lights Viewing: Aurora Borealis Adventure (Northern Tales Travel Services)

One of Yukon’s most magical experiences is witnessing the dance of the Northern Lights. Northern Tales Travel Services offers aurora viewing packages that include photography lessons, ensuring you capture this celestial spectacle beautifully.

7. Takhini Hot Springs: Relaxation and Adventure (Takhini Hot Springs)

Finally, after all those thrilling activities, why not relax and soak in the Takhini Hot Springs? These mineral-rich hot springs offer a serene setting amidst nature’s beauty, a perfect way to end your Yukon adventure.

The Yukon, with its pristine landscapes, rich history, and exciting adventures, truly has something for every traveler. As always, remember to travel responsibly and respect the land, wildlife, and communities you visit. Happy adventuring, folks!

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The Yukon’s Best-Kept Secret: Hidden Gems and Nuggets

Hey there, it’s Terry again, and I’ve got a hot tip for all you gold miners out there. If you’re willing to do a little extra digging (both figuratively and literally), you might just uncover some hidden gems and nuggets that others have overlooked.

One of my favorite places to search for treasure is in the small creeks and streams that branch off of larger rivers. These areas can be easy to miss, but they often hold pockets of gold that have been deposited there over time.

Another strategy is to look for abandoned mine sites or areas where other miners have worked in the past. They may have left behind nuggets or other treasures that you can uncover with a little persistence and some good old-fashioned prospecting skills.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for unusual or interesting rocks and minerals that could indicate the presence of gold. You never know what you might find out there in the wilds of the Yukon!

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Authentic Yukon gold mine experience and tour

Want to visit our operating placer mine and hunt for gold?
Our philosophy is simple: you dig it, you mine it.

This could mean a very casual “glamping” experience in the great outdoors fooling around in the dirt, or it could mean investing in the big machinery needed to make holes and make a significant find.

We’re pretty sure the gold is here – but it’s up to you to get it!