If you're looking for a short loop hike from downtown, the Millennium Trail is an excellent choice. Begin on either side of the Robert Campbell Bridge (the extension of Second Ave., south of Whitehorse) and follow the paved accessible foot path to a new footbridge directly below the Whitehorse Dam. The entire loop is 5km (3 miles). A longer loop is the Yukon River Loop Trail, which continues from the Millennium Trail on either side, passing the dam and the fish ladder and following Schwatka Lake to Miles Canyon. Here the Yukon River cuts a narrow passage through the underlying basalt. Though not very deep, the canyon greatly constricts the river, forming rapids that were once the object of dread to the greenhorn 98ers in their homemade boats. A footbridge crosses the river above Miles Canyon, making a 15km (9-mile) loop.
During July and August, the Yukon Conservation Society, 302 Hawkins St. (tel. 867/668-5678), offers free guided nature walks in the Whitehorse area. Contact them weekdays between 10am and 2pm for details. Hikes are given Monday to Friday, and on most days several destinations are offered, including the Whitehorse Rapids Dam and Miles Canyon. Most walks are only a couple of hours long. You must get yourself to the departure point for any hike, and be sure to bring comfortable shoes and insect repellent.
