This paddle wheeler, S.S. Klondike, located in Whitehorse, Canada is pretty impressive.
1 / 10

S.S. Klondike Whitehorse

4.4
·713 reviews·Whitehorse, Canada

Explore one of Canada's last steam-powered sternwheelers, a vital link to the Klondike Gold Rush era on the Yukon River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
This paddle wheeler, S.S. Klondike, located in Whitehorse, Canada is pretty impressive.

S.S. Klondike Whitehorse

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore one of Canada's last steam-powered sternwheelers, a vital link to the Klondike Gold Rush era on the Yukon River.

4.4
(713 reviews)

"A piece of history standing tall by the Yukon River, offering a glimpse into the North's adventurous past."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Restoration Status

Confirm public access before visiting as the ship is often under restoration.

Book Guided Tours

Tours offer deeper insights; consider booking ahead for a better experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

S.S. Klondike Sternwheeler

S.S. Klondike Sternwheeler

Whitehorse Waterfront

Explore one of Canada's last remaining steam-powered sternwheelers, a relic of the Klondike Gold Rush era.

Visitor Centre & Film

Visitor Centre & Film

Grounds of S.S. Klondike

Learn about the ship's history and the Yukon River's importance through informative exhibits and a captivating film.

Escape Room Experience

Escape Room Experience

Adjacent to the ship

Test your wits in a themed escape room, offering a unique and engaging way to experience the site's history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Check Restoration Status

The S.S. Klondike is undergoing restoration, which may limit access. Always check the official Parks Canada website or call ahead for the latest updates on public access and tour availability before your visit. Reddit

Book Tours in Advance

While the boat itself might be undergoing restoration, guided tours of the grounds and visitor center are often available. Booking these in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your spot. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Visitor center & tours active
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Answer to @dougsmith990 #sandwichdad #yukon #yukondad #klondike #whitehorse #baconeggandcheese #bec #oldcheddar #sandwiches #fyp
@sandwichdad
1.5K likes • 11.7K views

Check Restoration Status

Confirm public access before visiting as the ship is often under restoration. InstagramReddit

Book Guided Tours

Tours offer deeper insights; consider booking ahead for a better experience. Reddit

These are just a FEW of that amazing and beautiful experiences we had in Whitehorse! So much to see and do. Highly recommend a visit! #vanlife #exploreyukon #canadaroadtrip #whitehorseyukon #canadatiktok #travellertok #travelbucketlist #travellife
@chrisandnicole_
1.5K likes • 83.7K views
Legendary SS Klondike, one of Canada’s few remaining steam-powered paddlewheelers. Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.
mila.perry.olander
2 likes • 129 views

Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of the historic sternwheeler against the Yukon River backdrop. Instagram+1

Visitor Centre Info

Even if the boat is closed, the visitor center provides valuable historical context. Reddit

Dhumme dhulipeyla… 💃🎵🎶 Dancing at #ssklondike with my dance partner #sanvikbangaru SS Klondike is the name of two sternwheelers, the second now a National Historic Site located in Whitehorse, Yukon. They ran freight between Whitehorse and Dawson City, along the Yukon River, the first from 1929 to 1936 and the second, an almost exact replica of the first, from 1937 to 1950. @jaysowwings @sowjan...
sowjanyavlogs
36 likes • 619 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Restoration Status

Confirm public access before visiting as the ship is often under restoration. InstagramReddit

Book Guided Tours

Tours offer deeper insights; consider booking ahead for a better experience. Reddit

Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of the historic sternwheeler against the Yukon River backdrop. Instagram+1

Visitor Centre Info

Even if the boat is closed, the visitor center provides valuable historical context. Reddit

Souvenir Shopping

Browse unique gifts and mementos at the onsite shop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(713 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the S.S. Klondike as a significant historical site, offering a glimpse into the Yukon's past. While restoration work can limit interior access, the visitor center, grounds, and potential tours provide valuable insights. Some visitors express disappointment with the lack of full access, urging for clearer communication about restoration status. InstagramReddit+1

"We stopped here even though the boat is currently closed to the public. They are restoring it and will be reopened in the future. They have a small visitor centre and the staff was very nice. There is still plenty of information about the boat without being able to go invitation. There are also some red Adirondack chairs that are part of Parks Canada. It was fun taking our pictures in the chairs."

Donna Smith

"I was quite disappointed that the boat is inaccessible because of restoration. You can only view it from outside the fencing that is all around it.

I realize projects like this are necessary sometimes, but they need to have a much more prominent notice on their website about it being closed. Or better yet actually close it and put all the resources into completing the restoration in a more timely manner."

Malcolm Gray

"The site was cute. The shop was being restored, so we couldn't for the boat. It is supposed to be done by 2029 according to the young man in the info center. Some nice souvenirs. Two cute cabins--one with an 18- minute video about the shop and the other seemed to be an escape room."

Melody Marlow

What People Like

Historic sternwheeler
Informative visitor center
Scenic waterfront location

What People Dislike

Limited interior access
Restoration delays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site is located on the Whitehorse waterfront. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk or bike ride from downtown Whitehorse. TikTok

While specific bus routes might vary, Whitehorse has a public transit system. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for routes that service the waterfront area. TikTok

Yes, driving is a convenient way to reach the S.S. Klondike. There is typically parking available near the site, making it easy to access for day-trippers. Instagram+1

Grounds and visitor center access should be generally accessible. However, due to the historic nature of the ship and ongoing restoration, full interior accessibility may be limited. It's best to inquire directly with Parks Canada for specific accessibility details. Reddit

Exploring the grounds on foot allows you to appreciate the sternwheeler's scale and its riverside setting. Consider combining your visit with a walk along the Yukon River. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds and visitor center may be free, but access to the ship itself and guided tours often requires a ticket. It's crucial to check the official Parks Canada website for current admission fees and tour prices, especially as restoration work can affect access. InstagramReddit+1

Opening hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change due to restoration projects. Always consult the Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours for the visitor center and any available tours. Instagram

The S.S. Klondike has undergone significant restoration, which has sometimes limited interior access. While the grounds and visitor center are often accessible, tours of the ship's interior may be suspended. Check for updates on restoration progress. InstagramReddit+1

Admission fees can vary. While exploring the exterior and visitor center might be free, guided tours or special access may incur a fee. Check the Parks Canada website for the latest pricing information. Reddit

Even during restoration, you can often visit the grounds and the visitor center. Parks Canada aims to provide information and context about the ship's history. Always verify current access status before your visit. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the historic sternwheeler from the outside, explore the visitor center with its exhibits and film, and potentially participate in guided tours or an escape room. InstagramReddit+1

Guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the ship's history and its role in the Yukon. These tours provide valuable context beyond just viewing the vessel. Reddit

This short film provides historical context about the importance of sternwheelers like the S.S. Klondike in connecting the Yukon and Alaska during the gold rush era and beyond. Reddit

Yes, there is an escape room experience available at the S.S. Klondike site, offering a fun and interactive way to engage with the historical theme. Reddit

The S.S. Klondike was a vital sternwheeler that transported freight and passengers along the Yukon River, playing a crucial role in the development of the Yukon during the gold rush and subsequent decades. TikTokInstagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The entire waterfront area offers great vantage points. Capture the sternwheeler against the Yukon River, especially during golden hour for dramatic lighting. The Adirondack chairs also make for fun photo opportunities. InstagramReddit+1

Photography inside the S.S. Klondike may be restricted, especially during restoration. When interior access is permitted, check for any specific photography rules. Instagram

The sheer scale of the sternwheeler is impressive. Look for unique angles that highlight its historical design and its setting on the Yukon River. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones on the historic vessel. Instagram

Drone usage is typically regulated in National Historic Sites. It's essential to check Parks Canada regulations regarding drone operation before flying in the area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The S.S. Klondike offers a unique historical adventure for families. While the ship itself might be undergoing restoration, the visitor center provides engaging exhibits and a film that can captivate younger minds. The escape room is a fantastic interactive option for families looking for a fun challenge. Reddit

Encourage kids to imagine life on the riverboats during the gold rush era. The sheer size of the sternwheeler is impressive and can spark curiosity about historical transportation. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly activities or tours that might be available during your visit. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting the S.S. Klondike can be a budget-friendly experience, especially if you focus on exploring the grounds and the visitor center, which may be free or low-cost. Even if interior access is limited, the exterior of the ship is a significant historical artifact. InstagramReddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Yukon River, making your visit even more economical. The waterfront area is a beautiful public space. Look for free walking tours or self-guided exploration options to maximize your experience without significant expense. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The S.S. Klondike provides a dramatic and historic subject for photographers. The sternwheeler's unique design and its setting on the Yukon River offer numerous compelling angles. Capture the vessel against the backdrop of the northern landscape, especially during the soft light of dawn or dusk. Instagram+1

Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic Adirondack chairs often found on the grounds, which offer a classic Canadian travel shot. Even if you can't go inside, the exterior details and the surrounding waterfront provide ample material for stunning images. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Sternwheeler

The S.S. Klondike was not just a boat; it was a lifeline. As one of Canada's last remaining steam-powered sternwheelers, it represents a pivotal era in the North. These vessels were the primary mode of transport for freight and passengers along the vast Yukon River system, connecting remote communities and facilitating the Klondike Gold Rush and subsequent development. The second S.S. Klondike, now a National Historic Site, is a near-exact replica of the first, which operated from 1929 to 1936. Its immense size allowed it to carry significant cargo, including vital supplies and, importantly, silver ore. TikTokInstagram+1

Visiting the S.S. Klondike offers a tangible connection to this history. Even when interior access is limited due to restoration, standing beside this magnificent vessel evokes a sense of the challenging yet adventurous journeys undertaken by those who navigated the Yukon River. The visitor center and accompanying film further enrich this experience, providing context on the river's role in shaping the North and the lives of its inhabitants. InstagramReddit

The ongoing restoration efforts are crucial for preserving this iconic piece of Canadian heritage for future generations. While it can be disappointing to miss interior access, understanding the necessity of these projects highlights the commitment to maintaining the S.S. Klondike as a significant historical monument. InstagramReddit

Navigating Whitehorse's Waterfront

The S.S. Klondike is a centerpiece of the Whitehorse waterfront, an area that offers more than just historical reflection. This scenic stretch along the Yukon River is perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or simply enjoying the northern landscape. The waterfront is often dotted with public art, interpretive signs, and seating areas, making it a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the sternwheeler, the waterfront area provides access to other local attractions and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy views of the river, observe local wildlife, and appreciate the vastness of the Yukon territory. It's a hub for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the relaxed pace of life in Whitehorse. Instagram

Consider combining your visit to the S.S. Klondike with an exploration of the surrounding waterfront. The area is well-maintained and offers a peaceful escape, allowing you to soak in the unique atmosphere of this northern city. Instagram

You may also like