Hunting … It’s a Crapshoot
One of the most common questions we get asked by non-hunters, and those new to hunting, is, “How do you find and track the animals…
Yukon Lifestyle
Living The Yukon Lifestyle is the Life! Pristine Wilderness at our back door, rich culture & history, the arts and a connection to community.
Time To Talk Poop
As a trapper and hunter, you learn to identify wildlife excrement rather fast, as you’d want to. Why? To determine what kind of critters…
Poops Gone Wild
We all know that wilderness in the Yukon is plentiful, and many Yukoners enjoy disappearing off the grid for a weekend or more…
Species And Their Feces
Size, shape, texture, colour, smell—scat (or poo, poop, doo-doo … whatever you prefer)—comes in as many variations…
The Path To Bettering Your Soil
Gardening in the Yukon can sometimes feel like a perennial struggle when in other parts of the country it might appear almost effortless.
Pooped Out
Every parent goes into the process of having a child while knowing that diapers are unavoidable. Those sweet and precious little babies…
Loving The Skin You’re In
In parts of Canada, winter will soon slowly begin to make its way out, and spring will make its way in. In other parts of the country…
How To Bike Tour
People have been travelling long distances on bicycles since the invention of the two-wheeled vehicle. A British man named John Foster…
Firearm Care And Maintenance
It used to be that firearm maintenance was more tedious and certainly more frequently needed than it is currently.
Safe Riders
Snowmobiling is a fun and safe activity for the whole family, and riders like you can help us keep it that way.
Solo Travel
Most of the travelling I’ve done in my life has been solo. Sometimes it’s been out of necessity—but most of the time, out of preference.
A Northern Pregnancy
I had high expectations coming into the second trimester. I thought it would be like waking up from a bad dream …
Heartfelt (mis)Adventures
Valentine’s Day was always fun for me as a kid. Handing out brightly coloured paper hearts, to all of my classmates…
Dog Song Rising
The Yukon Quest was previously 1,000 miles and is now split into two lengths, one on the American side and the other on the Canadian side.
Making Your Mental Health A Priority
Many of us feel isolated, bombarded and overwhelmed by news of the horrors happening around the world (today)…
Books To Read On A Trapline
When the evenings get longer, we enjoy reading a good book. So here we go with the books to hunker down with on a cold, dark night
A Tale Of Two Bears
In the world of big-game hunting, black bear meat is easily one of the best tasting and most under-appreciated cuts of wild game there is.
International Travel in Covid Times
My husband Ryan and I continue our adventures travelling internationally, for the first time in two years, with flight delays…
How’s your etiquette?
Yes, as much as you don’t want to, you really should mind your table manners. However, there’s more to life than just the dinner table…
My 2023 Parenting Resolution
I have a question for all you parents out there: When does worrying about your child getting hurt become a self-fulfilling prophecy?
The Beauty Of Yukon’s Winter
Early winter in the Yukon is a special time of year, and yet it can also be a very bleak time of year. The shorter days feel dreary…
Christmas and Potato Salad
Having spent Christmas in three countries, there is one thing which will never change for me: eating potato salad and sausages on Christmas.
Travel in Covid Times: Part 2
My husband Ryan and I continue our adventures travelling internationally for the first time in two years…
Let Your Creativity Shine All Year-Round
We’re nearing the end of the year and soon we’ll all be gathered with our friends and families, glasses of champagne in hand…
Reindeer Nation
Canada is home to many species such as the beaver, the common loon, the Canada lynx, moose, wolverines—and the list goes on.
His Third, 1st Christmas
The holidays through a toddler’s lens For many of us, that first Christmas as a parent is something very special. So special, in fact, that it is difficult to describe just how many emotions you go through as the holiday season progresses. And if you’re anything like me, you just can’t wait to provide a …
Choices
Making so many choices every day can be stressful. Sometimes it causes me to lose track of the big picture.
Basic Winter Safety
Where we live, winter uses up a lot of our time each year. The duration varies a bit, but it’s still a lengthy period…
Furry Wildlife and Little-Known Facts
Beavers are found in most provinces and territories. They used to be eight-feet long and weigh about 200 pounds.
Take a Chance on Happiness
In the Wheel of Fortune, we see a giant wheel turning in a blue sky while curious winged creatures upon clouds watch…
Be A Conscious Traveller This Winter
The COVID-19 pandemic stopped travel, from one day to the next, in a way that was impossible to imagine before.
International Travel in Covid Times
Over two years ago, everyone’s lives changed with Covid. Vacations and trips were cancelled; even just meeting was impossible.
When Santa’s Magic Is Not An Option
Anyone who has watched the holiday favourite Home Alone can see what some of the stresses are of travelling during the Christmas season.
A Dispatch From Namibia Part 2
Once is the name of my taxi driver in Namibia (like once in a lifetime). People have strange names here: Darling, Given, Gift, or Mistake.
A Long Time Coming Part 2
The moose continued barrelling on his path for another hundred yards or so. Between us was an elevated creek bed and then a tiny meadow.
A Northern Wilderness Escape
Imagine your own cabin, far in the wilderness, steps away from a beautiful lake and spectacular mountain vistas.
So, You Need A Snowmobile
Two- or four-stroke? Long- or short-track? Utility or crossover? Snowmobile shopping can be overwhelming for a beginner…
DIY Eco-Friendly Christmas
According to Zero Waste Canada, only 1 per cent of everything the average person buys is still in use six months after Christmas.
On Mount Sima With Mavik MacKinnon
If you have ever been in Takhini North on a winter afternoon, you have probably come across Mavik’s “freestyle playground.”
Ammunition Choices
Currently, there is a much greater variety of ammunition choices for hunters than ever before in firearm history.
A Long Time Coming Part 1
An hour before dawn, my alarm goes off like a foghorn behind my head. I frantically reach behind me to shut it off.
Sauna Season
Saunas have grown a lot in popularity recently. Instagram is filled with pictures of stylish barrel saunas and wood-fired hot tubs.
Winter Fun In The Yukon
We are very lucky to live in the Yukon: we have incredible indoor facilities and the spectacular outdoors.
Breaking Trail
The new moon brought winter, including swans and more ducks taking a rest on our little lake. We will soon be breaking Trail.
Off To The Races: Mount Sima FIS Event
Having a ski race, as part of Mount Sima’s pre-season training, were already happening two years ago, according to general manager.
Southwest Saskatchewan Not What You Think
This summer, I went cycle touring for three weeks in southwest Saskatchewan. I was lured by “Saskatchewan is flat.”
A Gardener’s Work Is Never Done
To a non-gardener it might seem as if the gardening season has come to an end now. The last of the vegetables have been harvested and stored, the colourful leaves raked together and one might think that there’s nothing left to do this year. But just like a hunter is busy thinking of the next …
The Art Of Slowing Down
Friends who know me may well be wondering why on earth Amanda Mouchet is writing about the art of slowing down.
A Hunter’s First Ram
For many hunters that live outside of the Yukon, having the opportunity to hunt and harvest a mature Dall sheep is merely a pipe dream.
A Northern Pregnancy
So it’s official: I’m pregnant! Yep, the Aussie girl (who said and wrote, for years, that she would never have kids) is having a kid!
Listen To Your Grandmothers, Mothers, Aunties And Sisters This Winter!
Ruled by Venus, The Empress brings our core values to the table. Heading into winter, we are encouraged to reflect on our deepest values.
Oops, I Scared Him Again (A Parenting Fail)
No matter how good a parent’s intentions may be, they will undoubtedly do something to traumatize their children, at some point in time.
DIY: Low-Waste, Halloween style!
Initially, Halloween—namely, All Hallows’ Eve—was a ritual dedicated to remembering the dead. But now it can bee all about the fun!
All Things Pumpkin
The season of pumpkins is upon us. It seems this fall-favourite vegetable has a way of perfectly blending in with everything.
The Phoenix Burns Brightly In Fort Nelson
John Roper, general manager of the Phoenix Theatre Management Society, greets me with friendly enthusiasm. His love for the theatre and his love for his audience shine warmly in all of his stories.
Eco-Friendly Halloween
In a few days, little feet will be racing over crunchy leaves (or crunchy snow), from house to house, fuelled by vast quantities of sugar.
A Long-Awaited Return To Namibia, Part 1
How to prepare for my trip to Namibia?, I am asking myself a few days before boarding the plane to Africa.
Snowmobiling Is A Year-Round Activity
It may sound crazy, but long-time snowmobile enthusiasts will agree with us when we say snowmobiling really can be a year-round activity.
The Yukon by Mountain Bike
Over 700 kilometres of trails, and growing every year. For most residents, it’s a short drive or bike to the mountain biking trails.
Baby Names 101: What’s in a name?
Choosing a name for your new bundle of joy is something that most parents look forward to but can also be an overwhelming experience.
The Colour Of Light
There are many different ways we experience energy—from singing out loud, while driving to work, to using hydro-electricity for our power.
Tombstone Tips for Fall and Winter
If we could offer any word of advice on travelling to Tombstone, any time of year, it would be “Be ready for anything.”
The Trapper’s Life
What is trapping? I had no idea. But I slowly but surely found out that hunting and trapping is a passion. Serious, gorgeous and grounding.
Ode To The End Of Autumn
Fresh snow covers the mountaintops, and time seems to be flying by. Blink and you might miss the end of fall.
The Hunter’s First Rifle
The .30 calibre, is 112 years old and still high on the list as one of the most-versatile hunting cartridges in the world.
Hunters Should Definitely ‘HEED’ This Course
The Yukon’s Hunter Education and Ethics Development (HEED) course is a great, free tool for new hunters to begin their first steps.
Biking With Dogs
What makes dogs great biking companions? They never complain, they always want to go with you and make you get outside.
Honey Production In The Alps
The Yukon is a tough place for honeybees to survive, but we are lucky to count about 200 beehives in the territory.
Old Quebec City Is A Magical Place
When celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain travelled to Québec City, in 2013, he said he felt Iike he was in an entirely different country.
Returning Home to the Yukon
Tears streamed down my face as our airplane began its descent, preparing to land at the Whitehorse airport.
My Dearest 2022 Two-Year-Old
The terrible twos, they say, will be difficult. As I look back at old photographs, I often find myself thinking, Oh, how things have changed.
Unearthing a ‘miracle’
Nun cho ga is a near complete mummified female mammoth calf. This piece of Yukon history was found by placer miners working at Eureka Creek
Running For The Cure
George Maratos is excited to organize the annual Terry Fox Run and hopes to see an increase in participants this year.
Pan-fried Fish on the West Coast Trail
West Coast Trail inspired Pan Fried Salmon & Baked Potatoe. Great recipes from Miche Genest, with an accompanying trail tail.
Berry Song, A Story For Us All
Berry-picking season is an amazing time of year. Sweet wild strawberries, Soapberries and Saskatoons are all summer-time treats.
The Beast In Me
The Devil Tarot card says we all have a beast inside of us that can erupt without warning and make us our own worst enemy.
Biking With Your Spouse
Mountain biking, like relationships require work. From the first date to the wedding day, you’re constantly learning how to be with someone.
The Unexpected Joys of Fishing
I never thought that I would like fishing. In fact, as with many things our minds convince us of, I went through the better part of my life certain that I was very happy having nothing to do with piscine pursuits. I didn’t particularly like eating fish and I felt no need to try to catch one. And then I fell in love with a man who loves fishing.
Puppy Mayhem, Puppy Love
About 18 months ago, my husband and I were having a peaceful morning coffee together, chatting about various household issues. Our then eight-year-old black Lab (Sula) was asleep on one end of the sofa—her preferred napping spot. Suddenly my husband said, “If I die before you and you are left on your own, would you like to have a dog for company? I know that I would.” When I said “Yes” (tentatively), he immediately embarked on a search to find a black Lab puppy whose life would overlap with Sula’s.
Dining In The Dark
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to eat … without being able to see? Well, you can experience eating at a restaurant without being able to see! Yes, that’s right, your only senses would be touch, smell, taste and hearing.
The Durable (Water)Melon
The origin of watermelons date back as far as 5,000 years ago, in the deserts of South Africa. This melon had the ability to grow in drought-ridden conditions and to store water within the fruit; hence the name watermelon. It was a great food source for some ancient African tribes to have as they ventured across deserts. However, the taste was much more on the bitter side. Around 2000 BCE, the watermelon also made appearances in the burial chambers of ancient Egyptian royalty. In some of the hieroglyphics written on the walls of the burial chambers, the watermelon is depicted.
The Yukon 1000: One Canoe, Two Women, One-Thousand Miles
Known as the longest paddling race in the world, as well as the most-remote and self-reliant, the Yukon 1000 is an extreme undertaking that requires strength, endurance, bush smarts and thorough planning.
Toddler-Friendly Skies
The time had come. We had waited two years to be able to introduce our toddler to his extended family and now, at last, it was finally going to happen. However, in order to do that we first had to become the parents I have always looked at with a mix of trepidation and sympathy. We had to become FWAT parents. You know the ones: the “flying with a toddler” parents.
ADHD & The Great Outdoors
The move a southeastern Ontario city to small & isolated Old Crow, Yukon had an unexpected positive change on my ADHD and mental health.
Coming Back To The Yukon (Part 2)
“I cannot cross the river,” I told my friends as they were about to move on. (The truth was I didn’t want to cross the river.) We were a group of seven people hiking … two of us were staying behind on the beautiful sandy beach at Kusawa Lake, as the others went farther. I felt like sitting back and relaxing. My other friend was feeling the same. We are queens, we said. We don’t like to cross rivers.
Try to escape (if you can)
Skagway plays host to a unique venue for their first-ever escape room. At 777 Alaska Street, you will spot an old White Pass train car that hosts the challenging puzzle.
Behind Every Great Flea Is A Lesser Flea
An area of land that includes habitat like water, or sources of food and places where animals seek shelter will support specific animals or birds. Because that parcel of land would support a grouse, does not mean the same parcel would support a different population of birds.
Go Wild With Greens
There are few wild greens easier to enjoy than lamb’s quarters (Chenopodium album) also known as white goosefoot and, sometimes, pigweed. A member of the populous Amaranthaceae family, which includes amaranth, quinoa, beets and spinach, among thousands of other plants, the leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked and have a flavour somewhere between spinach and kale.
Summer Pea And Bacon Toast
In this Summer Pea and Bacon Toast dish, it’s freshly shelled peas that are the star.
The Gifts of Haida Gwaii
Some places, like some people, are incredibly special but also a little bit elusive. They may not make things easy; they can be difficult to reach and they don’t open themselves up to just anyone.
No More Pie-In-The-Sky: Whitehorse Takes The Crown With Record-Breaking Pizza
The Yukon’s motto is “Larger Than Life. A recent collaboration between Yukon businesses Duncan’s Limited, Whiskey Jack’s Pub and Grill, Yukon Brewing and Lumel Studio put that to the test this week by building the largest pizza in the country.
Celebrating Yukon’s Unique Holiday
Celebrating Discovery Days in the Yukon goes back over 100 years. After the Klondike Gold Rush, the Yukon Order of Pioneers convinced the Yukon Territorial Council to celebrate Discovery Day, as a public holiday, in 1911.
Seared Onglet Steaks With Roasted Potatoes
Onglet is the French description of a hanger steak, a lovely little tab of meat that comes from around the lower belly of a cow.
The Bubble Life: Pretty In Pink
Rosé Prosecco was first launched on the market in 2020 and the alcoholic drink has gained popularity as a special occasion drink.
Preserving Veggies For (Brrrh!) Winter
In the Yukon, the growing season in summer is very efficient, with almost 20 hours of daylight but winters are tough for our food gardens.
Mountain biking, a solo sport (but way more fun with friends!)
Learning to mountain bike solo can be daunting. Having a chance to ride with others and learn the ropes can build skills and confidence.
Pride: It’s Time to Shine, Yukon!
August is Pride month in the Yukon with smaller events planned throughout the territory from Whitehorse to Watson Lake and beyond.
Premier Puts His ‘Best Foot Forward’ and Makes a Little Yukon History
Who drank the 100,000th Sourtoe Cocktail? Well, now we know. The famous drink (also known as The Toe), was created by the equally famous Captain Dick, in 1973, in the even more famous locale known as Dawson City, and has been a major “Yukon To Do” for visitors and locals alike. Since 1973, the number …
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Cat Camping
Camping with a cat can be both rewarding. Howie the cat got his first taste of camping in the Yukon and made some memories along the way.
Raspberry Fool With Wild Chamomile Shortbreads
Nothing is assured about wild food gathering. If you find butter & whipping cream try this dessert recipe.
New Adventures, Old Heirlooms
About eight or nine years ago, my dad’s cousin’s widow called out of the blue to berate me (in her high-toned British accent) because I didn’t let her know about my mom’s passing. I didn’t want to explain that I didn’t even know this relative was still alive or that she was still in touch …
What In The World Are Executive Functions?
What are Executive Functions and how do they affect people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
The Big Squeeze
lemonade stands pop up on street corners. It’s The Big Squeeze lemonade-stand fundraiser in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yukon!
Mindfulness on Two Wheels
Exploring the Yukon while exercising mindfulness on two wheels can help you take in all the splendour the territory has to offer.
Pause and Give Thanks to Those Wonderful Summer Pollinators
Pollination is part of life on Earth, enabling plants to turn flowers into fruit. There is no more-famous pollinator than the honeybee.
Cheese Production in the Center of Old Paris
In Paris, like Klondike Valley Creamery, in the Yukon, most cheese production is not done in the big city.
Graphic Novel: Journey to Makalu
Artist Esther Bordet visits the same Himalayan summit as her great-uncle, to create a graphic novel based on his travels.
Becoming Canadian
Becoming a Canadian citizen means different things to different people. For Kylie Campbell-Clarke, it was a journey five years in the making.
Coming Back: A German In The Yukon
The call of the Yukon or the call of the wild that so many have heard and have followed, like my friends … they came here and stayed.
Rabbit Ragu With Bucatini
Rabbit (Ragu) has mild white meat but it has a bit more of a robust and meaty flavour than average grocery-store chicken.
Let’s Build A Better Future For Waterfowl
Wetlands are vital for waterfowl reproduction. Unfortunately, encroachment by industry and humans is harmful.
Connection and Healing: The Distances We Go
Learning to appreciate how much time and travel is needed when living in the Yukon can actually provide a calm perspective on life.
Postcards: Yukon Microadventures
The summer days here in the Yukon are wonderfully long, and the midnight sun is perfect for going on adventures & microadventures.
Let the gardening and foraging begin!
The days are longer, the temperatures milder—it is time to prepare for gardening, planting and foraging. Some tips to get you started!
Adäka Cultural Festival Comes Back Into The Light—Renewed and International
The Adäka Cultural Festival returns with the light of many suns, in full swing and in person this year! June 29 to July 5 2022
To Fold a Thousand Paper Cranes
It was a few bright spots against white snow that stood out. Upon further inspection, the remains of two slightly ripped square papers appeared. They were adorned with Asian-inspired print on one side and a blanket cover of colour on the other. It was an image from the film Blade Runner that connected the paper’s …
Long Live the Dandelion
I saw my first dandelion of the season early this month, and it absolutely made my day. I love dandelions.
Time to Celebrate: Birch Syrup Season is Done
Shift from birch sap for syrup, to sap for beer. “Oh yeah, beer concentrate is fun and easy, relative to syrup, and the vibe is all beer,”
The pollination process for flowers can sometimes be a deadly affair
Pollination is the creation of other flowers through “sex.” However, unlike humans, sex between flowers is quite complex and very scientific.
A Convivial Conveyance
Flying to Toronto on Air North: relaxation. No change of airline, no transfer of luggage. I figured they were also going to feed me.
Paddlers are back and ready to race!
Yukon River Quest 2022 has 119 teams. The 2020 race was a no-go due to the pandemic, and 2021 was cancelled due to flooding.
Pedal Power With Yukon Water Bikes
Water bikes are easy to use, and pedalling can get you out pretty far onto the lake, pretty quickly. “Come on!” he yelled. “Let’s race.”
Summer: The wait is (almost) over!
What to do in the Yukon? Since summer begins on June 21, I have compiled a list of 21 super-fun things you can do in the Yukon,
Honesty and recognizing folks’ value is hot this summer
Don’t immediately assume you are in a love triangle or that your partner is having an affair, each time you see the Three of Pentacles
Celebrating Indigenous Culture, All Over The Territory
After two years, the organizers are busy getting back into the swing of preparing for National Indigenous Peoples Day in Whitehorse.
Youth Today, Language Leaders Tomorrow
A new program through the Yukon Native Language Centre focuses on revitalizing traditional First Nations languages
Dog Gone Long Time
How a traditional walk helps make sense of life. Learning about stamina and resilience between Colville Lake and Fort Good Hope
Swipe Right: A Northern Love Story
A True Love Story set in a town of 40,000 in northern Canada. The universe proves my “Swipe Left, Swipe Right” (2017) story wrong.
Fermentation: ‘Little Living Things’ in Our Food
Fermenting is transforming a food, usually in the absence of oxygen. Several types of fermentation exist: ethanol, acetic &lactic acid.
It’s Time to Ride for Dad Yukon
The Yukon Ride for Dad, founded in 2010, is a fundraiser which supports seed funding for prostate cancer research
Prosecco: Exploring Bevies That Sparkle
“I may not speak Italian, but I am fluent in prosecco,”. But where did this lovely fruity drink originate from
Midnight Sun First Annual Ladies Disc Golf Tournament
This is a feel-good story about local women supporting other women and breaking down barriers. We are holding the inaugural Midnight Sun Ladies Disc Golf Tournament and wanted to find a way to reach out to women who are facing too many barriers to participate in disc golf or in other forms of recreation. Breaking …
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The Simplest, the Smallest and the Most Profound
I was heading to the land for a night, to stay in a small cabin near Atlin. It would be me and the three dogs.
Four Driving Styles or attitudes
There is a lot going on while we are driving: There are four ways we can drive; we can be passive, aggressive, assertive or defensive.
Grey Matters: Betwixt and Between
Emerging from COVID restrictions, & the dark cold of winter. What will you do to transition to the next phase of your life?
Bobbi Rose Koe receives the 2021 Canadian River Heritage Award
30 year old Teetl’it Gwich’in woman Bobbi Rose Koe received the 2021 Canadian River Heritage Award. A lifetime achievement award.
Welcome to my ADHD Brain
We hear ADD (or ADHD) tossed around, all the time. What does it really mean? When I forget where I put my keys, does it mean I have ADHD?
Could You Survive In The Backlands?
If you drove to the forested backlands, could you actually survive a month, a week or even a single day? Yukon Survival.
Welcome to Vaucluse and to Olive Oil, Wine and Sun-kissed Hills in the South of France
Mont Ventoux (literally Mount Windy). Not quite as impressive as the peaks of Kluane National Park and Reserve, at 1,909 m (6,263 ft), it is the highest mountain of the region. The “Giant of Provence” is also well-known to be the iconic climb during the cycling race, Tour de France.
Tiptoe Through The ‘Poo-lips’
There is no Poop Fairy. So, unfortunately for dog owners here in Whitehorse, it’s their responsibility to pick up their pet poop.
‘Poop Happens’ (and when it isn’t discreet, it’s even funnier)
Pooping is a vulnerable time for a dog. You will note how they curl up into position and look around to ensure that no predators attack them.
The Transformation of Waste
Is it weird to lick your fingers while you’re making Chocolate Poop? Use a dark high-percentage chocolate, ideally locally ground if available.
Parenting: ‘Sit’ Happens
My love for my 2 yr old whirlwind of chaos I’m certain of, everything else has me confused. Parents know true one doesn’t mean true the next.
The ‘Inside’ Scoop on Healthy Poop
It turns out the Bristol Stool Scale is all about the quality of poop—not bar stools. We’ll tell you a little aobut healthy poop.
‘Poop and the City’—The Whitehorse Sewage System
Where does our poop go after we flush? Turns out it is a journey after we flush, and we can help ensure that the system runs smoothly.
Wandering Into the Known and Unknown
I decided to take myself for a drive to somewhere I had never been before. I ended up in the Donjek River Valley & Kluane National Park.
Whitehorse Brunch Roundup
When planning a Mother’s Day outing in Whitehorse, once thing is certain: There are a “brunch” of options. We feature 3.
‘The Force’ Courses Through the Paton Family
Josh Paton has always been a Star Wars guy. It’s common to see him in a different Star Wars T-shirt every night. He owns close to 90.
Born on May the 4th (be with you)— Destined to be a Fan
“For me, now, Star Wars (SW) is a familiar universe where you know the rules,” reflected Mackenzie Grant. Mackenzie’s birthday is May the 4th.
Comparing old with new in the Star Wars universe (and the future of the franchise)
When did you first watch Star Wars? How old were you? Who were you with? Who is your favourite character, and why?
Trek Wars, Star Wars vs Star Trek
For the May the 4th (be with you) Robin is throwing down: Star Trek is better than Star Wars, in every way. We’re going to get some hate mail.
“Vader’s Fist” in the Yukon
The 501st Legion (a.k.a. Vader’s Fist), a Star Wars costuming group, is in the territory. Hear from inaugural members of The Yukon’s Legion.
A new Star Wars fan favours Darth Maul
My earliest memory of Star Wars is The Phantom Menace, released in 1999. My favourite character is the disturbed Sith Lord, Darth Maul.
Yukoners in Star Wars cosplay
Yukoners in Star Wars cosplay. The Mandelorian, Chewbacca, Jawa and the Raven Sith.
The Force Is Strong With This One
Johnson puts cultural history and the ways of The Force together. “we are Jedis!” he says, “look at an Elder and that’s a Jedi council member”
ME AND WILLIE
The 1969 spring carnival talent show was the talk of the town. I begged and pleaded, with my mom, for a dollar to go. She reminded me that I would skip next week’s allowance if I took the dollar now, plus, I had to fill the woodbox with firewood. I assured her that I was …
Are the trees weeping?
I grew up in Canadian Shield country. Rocks were what I noticed and loved. A few kilometres north were remnants of the boreal forest,
Take the Long View
How can we best support our fathers? Card: Three of Wands, Minor Arcana. I smiled when this card appeared about supporting our fathers.
Finding Connections to Their Northern Roots
Yann Herry is drawn to true stories of daring. Ask him about his favourite characters in the Yukon’s Francophone history and he’ll tell you about the people who took chances, cut their own trails and lived their dreams. “It’s the French-Canadian spirit, going back to the voyageurs,” he said. “We’ve always been pulled toward big …
Government Camping Fees Set to Rise This Year
World Class. That’s an adjective that sums up the beauty, majesty and ruggedness that is the Yukon landscape. So it’s no wonder that people from all over the world make a visit to the territory a bucket-list priority to fulfill dreams of endless hiking, biking, fishing and hunting, to name a few. Also not surprising …
Vibing High with Sled Dogs Under a Winter Night Sky
Winter camping! Natalie wasn’t comfortable dogsledding trails melted into slick iceShe offered an alternative. “We can take the Skandic!”
Whitehorse’s Japanese Taiko Drumming Ensemble
“We were practicing with garbage bins,” said Yoko Oda of Whitehorse’s Japanese Taiko Drumming. “Finally, we got the funding,”
Three voices on the love of snowmobiling
Notes from ‘Sled Head Lane’ Three voices on the love of snowmobiling “You need to have an intimate relationship with your snow machine.”
KDFN citizen Doronn Fox handcrafted drums for Elders in Whitehorse’s long-term care homes
KDFN citizen Doronn Fox, Helping to reconnect Elders in care through traditional drumming. Part of a series featuring Citizen success stories.
Small Graces Can be Hard to Find, but Should always be Celebrated
This March I’ve decided that instead of my usual grumpiness about the wind and the cold, I’d try to stay focused on the “small graces”
Having the Right Gear Can Make or Break a Day of Hunting
Hunting gear is a big investment. Your summer and fall gear must perform when you need it to. Your gear has to keep you warm, dry and alive.
‘Round and ‘Round We Go
Roundabouts, we all love to hate them but a traffic circle can be useful. Whitehorse had one on the top of Two Mile Hill in the 70s.
Tarot: Seek Justice with Perspective
Tarot Question: How can we best support Ukraine? The Cards: Justice, Major Arcana XI. The Deck: The Rider-Waite Coleman-Smith
The Battle at the Mad Trapper Bar
Northerners; we tell stories. Our northern stories are our wealth & our identity. They are about independent, hardy people full of character.
The ABCs of Happiness During a Pandemic
Whatever life passes your way it worth reflecting on how to live your life in the most healthy and happy way possible.
An Ode to Irishness for St. Patrick’s Day
With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, and with mandates being eased for public spaces, it is likely that those of us deprived of access to communal celebration will certainly find a venue in which to toast a Guinness while belting out a traditional Irish tune like “Drunken Sailor” or the softer “Galway Bay.” …
Dawson City is getting ready to host its annual Thaw di Gras Spring Carnival
Dawson City is getting ready to host its annual Thaw di Gras Spring Carnival. Get Ready for Some Outrageous Winter Fun!
Telling the Yukon’s Untold Stories
When Paul Gowdie first learned about the hundreds of Black soldiers who worked on constructing the Alaska Highway in the 1940s, he was surprised. “I’m in a mostly white town, in a mostly white territory, and I attend this presentation and find out that 30 percent of the soldiers who built the highway were Black,” …
The value of hunting & fishing to tourism in the Yukon
Since the early Gold Rush days, hunting and fishing have played a major and valuable role in tourism in the Yukon.
Storytelling Specialist Honoured for Excellence and Leadership in Teaching
Patricia Joe, of KDFN, recognized as an Outstanding Indigenous Educator. She credits her grandparents for gifting their knowledge to her.
Whitehorse Photography Club: Wildlife photos
Whitehorse Photography Club’s entries for “Celebration of Nature” photo contest. Whitehorse finished 5th of 20 clubs with147 points.
Blue collar North: Tundra twins
In early 1970s young skiers from Finland, Sweden, more countries came the Mackenzie Delta to race the best Cross Country skiers,
The Percy DeWolfe Memorial Race kicks off March 3, 2022
He defied death. He raced against time. What better way to honour the “Iron Man of the North” than The Percy DeWolf Memorial Race.
Tarot: Homecoming for the heart
Tarot: Six of Wands, Minor Arcana Rulerships: Leo. Element: Fire. Colours: Orange, Red. Time: Noon. Direction: South. Season: Summer.
When Gatherers Become Gardeners
Mid-winter Potato, Kale and Cheddar Pie. A hearty, cheesy, main course that only needs a side salad for a satisfying mid-winter meal.
Talismans: Attracting a way through difficulties
A talisman is a physical object that holds specific meaning and intention. Talismans remind us events are cyclical and the magic remains.
Fitness by firewood
A Yukon retiree, 75, has three readily apparent options for a productive summer fitness program: 1. Fishing, 2. Golf or 3. Firewood.
Grey Matters: Valentines delivered
Who’s whining? Never! Well … friends and family have brightened my day. There are lots of valentines that go out.
The weight of Firewood
We averaged wood-buying sites. The approximate weights of a cord of Yukon firewood: 4,250 lbs for green and 4,050 lbs for seasoned.
Tuktoyaktuk part 2: The Arctic Ocean
Our journey continues to Tuktoyaktuk. Tips on things to see and do: Climb a Pingo, Arctic houses, Arctic Ocean, muktuk at Grandma’s kitchen
Grey Matters: Christmas memories
I’ve just finished “taking down Christmas” for another year. I love the ritual; the small, silent, solitary ceremony of this dismantling.
The road trip begins: Tuktoyaktuk on The Dempster Highway
When the Tuktoyaktuk (Tuk) highway officially opened Nov. 15, 2017, I wanted to drive it to the Arctic Ocean.
Baby surprises parents despite best-laid plans
Overall, I was blessed with a healthy pregnancy. I was aware that being in decent shape helped birth and committed to walking every day, with a goal of 10,000 steps daily. My due date was October 18, 2021. At my baby shower at the end of September I hiked Fish Lake no problem. I was …
Advice on dealing with bullies and bullying?
TAROT: Advice on dealing with bullies and bullying. Two of Pentacles reminds us, change is possible, not linear and often unpredictable.
Haines, Alaska: Food scene still vibrant even during a pandemic
A trip to Haines reveals things have been far from quiet in the small town of 2,500. The food and beverage scene is thriving.
Five years of kicking up a storm
As the Kicksled Revolution rings in its fifth birthday, owner and founder Anne Middler reflects on the past & what she hopes will come.
Photography: Fish Lake Rd. Marshlands
The morning sun back lit the ice fog rising from the open water in the marsh lands on Fish Lake Road during our recent -40 cold snap.
Ruth Lera: Energy Healer, Meditation Teacher and Writer
I spent a night trying to decide. By the next morning, I decided teaching meditation and energy healing was the right fit for me.
Grey Matters: Reflections on time
I’m convinced time is speeding up. I remember being told “coming soon! Those things weren’t “soon” Now, at 72, everything comes much sooner
The Fiddler in the North
Simon Crelli is a Yukon musician with quite an impressive resume, and a mentor to many of the territory’s young musicians.
Taking (laughing)stock of the best of the Naramata Bench
The scenic Naramata Road passes a selection of my favourite vineyards. Our destination this day was Laughing Stock Vineyards.
Cataract Surgery: A modern medical miracle
There are only two things you need to know if you are considering cataract surgery to prevent spending your retirement years like Mr. Magoo
Breathe with Perspective: Advice on dealing with anxiety
Question: What will help us deal with anxiety? The Card: Queen of Swords, Minor Arcana Rulership: Scorpio. Element: Air. Colours: White, yellow. Time: Dawn. Direction: East. Season: Spring. The Deck: The Rider-Waite Coleman-Smith, first published in 1910. Card illustration here by Aimée. Astrological Circumstances: I cast the reading during the Waning Crescent in Leo, in …
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To catch a chipmunk: It’s not as easy as you might think
I stashed a few peanuts in an awkward place I was fairly certain would prevent the conniving squirrels, but tempt the chipmunk.
Grey Matters: Grip and gripes
I’m coming to grips with how bad my grip is. Some things that have gotten better with time, my ability to tolerate my arthritis has not.
Craving Crepes? Crêperie La Petite-Maison brings French food to Yukoners
Crêperie La Petite-Maison brings French food to Yukoners. Morin & Veniatare passionate & Yukoners are crazy about their crêpes.
New kid in the park: Hello, bonjour! Welcome to Kluane National Park and Reserve
I’d moved 2,000 kilometres north, alone, for a 4-year term in a little place called Haines Junction. At Kluane National Park and Reserve
Nose to tail : Don’t overlook the offal when meal-planning this winter
Offal —literally “off-fall”— refers to those parts of an animal carcass that have fallen off during butchering. While muscles represent more than a third of the weight of cattle, by-products including side meats, bones, skin, and intestines constitute most of the animal body. The brain, the trotters (aka feet), kidney, liver, sweetbreads (pancreas) and tripe …
Nose to tail : Don’t overlook the offal when meal-planning this winter Read More »
The quilt of many poppies
Joseph Novak is a World War ll veteran and possibly the last in the Yukon who served overseas. Joe moved into Whistle Bend Place early this year and has delighted co-residents and staff with his passionate storytelling, unshakable love of music and gratitude for life. In October of last year, Joe was given a 7×7-foot …
Sam McGee Hike from Conrad
If you’re looking for an adventure day hike with rewarding views at top, look no further than the Sam McGee trail near Conrad Campground.
Planes, trains and automobiles
Tullis, 83, likes to build. A retired heavy duty mechanic, the airplane, steam engine & Ford Model T occupied him for the last 30 years.
Grey Matters: Age-friendly outdoors
“Mr. Spock,” my 1998 camper van (pure luxury) is put to bed. My old arthritic bones will no longer take sleeping on the cold, hard ground.
Cranberry bounty
Old-fashioned jelly roll, made with cranberry jam, not jelly, and finished with whipped cream, Amaretto and toasted sliced almonds.
Tarot: Nurturing Children in Intense Times?
Tarot: The Card: Major Arcana VI, The Lovers Rulerships: Gemini, Mercury. Element: Air. Colours: Blue, Orange, Yellow.
Pumpkins in the North
Getting Pumpkins to the Yukon isn’t easy. There’s a lot of shipping logistics to bring them from B.C., maybe Alberta, maybe even California.”
Through a Dark Wood
Jenifer Davidson, Yukon artist, has been creating art for as long as she can remember. More than a hobby, It’s benefitted her mental health.
Love your local library!
October is national library month! Libraries across the territory are celebrating Yukon Public Libraries Week October 18-23.
Beverly Brazier turns to thoughts of fall
September is quite a month. There are poems about it. It’s a month that digs deep into the range of our emotions.
Trash Talk with Zero Waste Yukon
Its a day to celebrate recycling: Waste Reduction Week is happening October 18 to 24! Spray champagne, just remember to recycle the bottle.
Confessions of a canny can collector
In 2 weeks I collected 260 refundable cans. $6.50/week, more than $300/year. I had visions of dogs helping, the dogs did not share my vision.
Spotlight on St. Elias Lake: A family-friendly backcountry experience
St. Elias Lake is a manageable day hike or overnight that can help gauge managing the backcountry, or just a beautiful destination.
Yukon coyotes: The dos and don’ts
Coyotes are survivors and are very adaptable. Unlike other predators, they thrive living in our urban environment.
The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in BioBlitz
Search and identify species in Dawson City and its surrounding in the traditional territory of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in
Infinite flavours of Asia: Yukon Asian Market
If a customer asks for something, she’ll try to find it for them and the selection is impressive. There are products from many countries.
Scenes from the Street Eats and Beats Cultural Festival
A feast for the senses: Scenes from the 2021 Festival. Entertainers, Attendees and Food service providers.
Old Gardeners Never Die, They Just Go to Seed
Fall is the time when seeds are able to be gathered and stored. And a seed exchange is the perfect place to share some of those seeds.
Mean Old World: Gordie Tentrees album release
Of everything he’s recorded, Tentrees is confident that his upcoming studio effort contains his best work to date.
Loss and the art of letting go?
It probably seems a bit extreme to grieve the loss of mountain biking at age 72. Loss becomes a fact of life as one gets older.
Hot Eats Cool Beats: new family fun street eats festival
An expansion of the Street Eats Festival this year’s festival offers food trucks, live music, art installations and a historical tasting tour.
At the drive-in – Yukon style & Pandemic safe
Two nights of drive-in movies in Whitehorse and Carcross. Soul, O Brother, Where Art Thou?, You Are Here: A Come From Away Story and Beans.
Klondike Korner: DCMF 2021 is reborn in a smaller, later version this COVID year
September 10 to 12. DCMF is a bite sized three day event spending days in the Waterfront Park Gazebo and nights in the Palace Grand Theatre.
A bear spray refresher
They may still be good, but who wants to learn they don’t work while facing a bear? Each container has only eight seconds of spray.
Community Connection: A Sap For History
Seedlings from the Martha Black Mayday tree outside of city hall were given away to 250. The Mayday tree is, slated to be cut down in 2022.
Postcards from Peru – Cusco
Jessica loves being in the mountains, working with plants and exploring beyond her comfort zone. She divides time between Peru and the Yukon.
The Bookshelf: A poetic memoir of northern travels
Poetry with a bit of a difference, it has a strong ecological bias. Goodbye, Ice: Arctic Poems by Lawrence Millman
Getting to the Other Side: Tips for safe creek crossings
There it is, a roiling torrent of water in place of the babbling brook you crossed in the morning. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Finding History
Beaver castoreum found on an ancient throwing dart has led to new discoveries on traditional hunting technology in the North
Moose Bush: The way-posts home
In the North, we measure distance by the amount of time it takes. A way-post is an item that marks your progress along a road or trail.
Vanessa Ægirsdóttir’s magical place
Meeting Bahm set her on a new personal journey, and professional path informed by his Tlingit heritage and traditional approach to trapping.
Birthday Pairings, Campground Treats
Jennifer’s (Free Pour Jenny) cocktail and an appetizer. The cocktail’s bright, sharp and tart. Something cheesy immediately suggested itself.
Business Profile: Half Moon Ice Cream
with a supportive community, this ice cream maker has been able to stick it out in 2021, and even return with some impressive upgrades.
Take Care of your Experiment
Asking the Tarot for a wild card opens a window. Tarot readings offer you fresh perspective and realistic tools for change and re-balancing.
Janet Patterson: Walking together
Janet Patterson, recipient of the Jenni House Residency is a multimedia artist whose work is focused on the history of the land we travel on.
Colourful bookmarks
Today we’ll make our own colourful bookmarks. connecting reading and art with other fields in our life—let’s start!
Give a dog a bone – Part 2
I’ve had some tough times in my life, but fighting a dog over a bone was about the toughest. End of that story.
Mush Rush 2016
I like the people. I like the dogs, I like the camaraderie – being part of something that is bigger than yourself.
Old Boler, older bones
The Boler trailer was built in Manitoba around 1973. It’s not as old as my old bones, for sure, but there are a number of similarities.
Bioblitz is back & going to Dawson City
bringing experts and aspiring citizen scientists to one location for a day of counting and identifying as many species as possible.
Family Feud Casting… In The Yukon!
Family Feud Canada is looking for families including Canada’s north, for their unique way of life and sense of community
Rev your engines!
Ride for Dad’s annual motorcycle rally helps raise money for prostate cancer research and awareness and it’s back for another summer.
Give a dog a bone – Part 1
I’ve had some tough times in my life, but fighting a dog over a bone was about the toughest. Pull up a stump and I’ll fill you in.
Plastic-free July has started
This month is “Plastic-Free July,” a worldwide effort to reduce each of our consumption of single-use plastic products for one month.
Reconnecting with natural places
People who contemplate the beauty of nature do it in many different ways, some by exploring places that are new to them, others via the familiar rhythms of where they can go from their doorstep.
How to travel the Dempster
Travelling the Dempster Highway is an iconic Northern experience. If it is not on your bucket list, consider revising your list.
Farewell, Kona’s Coalition
Animal welfare service Kona’s Coalition is shutting down after nearly a decade
Filling in the gaps of cycling in the Yukon
The rise of the commuting cyclist in the Yukon’s capital over the past decade or so has been a joy to behold.
For those who need to reconcile
Tarot Question: may we please have advice for residents of Canada who need to reconcile?
She Shreds
Michelle Friesen is part of the next wave of amazing Yukon women aiming to make mountain biking accessible and inclusive. And she’s clearly happy to be leading the way.
Growing young farmers
In 2020, when the Yukon closed its borders to the outside world due to COVID-19, Sundog Retreat owners Andrew Finton and his partner, Heather, found an opportunity in the challenge. They created the Sundog Veggies project.
Mini watercolour landscapes
Hello artists! Today’s art is inspired by the beauty of a single colour—blue!
Peanut butter banana oat smoothie recipe
This peanut butter banana oat smoothie is a fast and nutritious snack or breakfast. It is high in calories, protein and fat so it won’t leave you feeling hungry soon after. It is also gluten-free, dairy-free/vegan and soy-free.
A hidden gem – Thechàl Dhâl’ Visitor Centre in Kluane National Park
The beautifully renovated Thechàl Dhâl’ Visitor Centre in Kluane National Park and Reserve opens for the 2021 season.
The secret to composting
We all know we should compost. It is the right thing to do, even in bear country. Composting is the natural process of decay.
A summer of sports
Some activities and events will look different this year, but Yukoners can still get their sport on.