The Millennium Trail is the city's best-known walking route: a non-motorised, multi-use paved trail of about five kilometres that follows the Yukon River on both banks. The loop crosses the river at the Robert Campbell Bridge to the north and the Rotary Centennial Bridge to the south, the latter limited to people on foot and bicycles, and it passes interpretive signs and distance markers along the way. Views include the remnants of the Whitehorse Rapids, the power dam, Golden Horn mountain and, on the west side, forest that feels far from the city centre. At the Robert Campbell Bridge the loop links to the Riverfront Trail that runs along the water downtown, and the wider Whitehorse trail network includes about 230 kilometres of city-wide trails. It is suitable for all ages and abilities, free to use and easy to shorten or extend. It is a good first-morning walk, a gentle way to stretch after a long flight and a useful connection to the fish ladder, Miles Canyon and the downtown sights.
Season by season
The paved surface is well maintained through the year, so the trail is usable in winter as well as summer. In the cold months the river does not freeze completely, and walkers see open water, floating ice pans and wisps of fog rising where very cold air meets warmer water, which is a memorable sight. In summer the same path is green and busy with walkers, runners and cyclists. Wear boots with grip in winter, because paved surfaces can be icy, and dress for wind near the water.
How to do it
A convenient starting point is the large parking area at the S.S. Klondike grounds, and there are several other access points. The Rotary Centennial Bridge is about half an hour into a typical walk, and you can turn back at either bridge for a shorter outing.
Following the loop gives you a sense of the river as the highway that created Whitehorse, and you can add the fish ladder in summer or Miles Canyon for a longer day. Be aware that some short stretches beside the river are informal and unmaintained, so stick to the paved route.
Who it suits
Nearly everyone. Families can use it with strollers and bikes, couples can walk it at sunset and photographers will like the river light. It costs nothing, so it also anchors a budget-friendly day alongside the S.S. Klondike grounds and the museums downtown.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk or ride on a paved loop of about five kilometres along the Yukon River, with two bridge crossings.
Best time
Any season in daylight; winter for river fog and ice, summer for green views and the nearby salmon run.
How long
One to two hours for the full loop, less if you turn back at a bridge.
Tips
Start at the S.S. Klondike parking area, wear grippy footwear in winter and stay on the paved route.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a free, easy introduction to Whitehorse and the Yukon River.
- Families
- A flat paved loop that works for strollers and cyclists.
- Couples
- A scenic walk with river views and, in winter, steaming open water.
- Pair with
- The S.S. Klondike grounds, the fish ladder and Miles Canyon.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
How long is the Millennium Trail?+
The loop is about five kilometres, crossing the Yukon River on the Robert Campbell Bridge and the Rotary Centennial Bridge.
Is it open in winter?+
Yes. The paved surface is maintained year-round, though it can be icy, so wear boots with good grip.
Can I cycle it?+
Yes. It is a non-motorised multi-use trail, and the Rotary Centennial Bridge is for foot and bicycle traffic only.
Where do I start?+
A convenient start is the large parking area at the S.S. Klondike grounds, and there are several other access points.
Does it connect to other trails?+
Yes. It links to the downtown Riverfront Trail at the Robert Campbell Bridge and to the wider city trail network, including routes toward the fish ladder and Miles Canyon.
