Yukon’s Tourism Sector Receives $800K Investment for Growth and Accessibility

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Tourism significantly boosts the Yukon‘s economy. Businesses and organizations that offer unique experiences play a crucial role in engaging locals and attracting visitors from across the country and around the world. Increased tourism bolsters the local economy and benefits other regional businesses and attractions.

Today, Dr. On behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan, and CanNor, Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for the Yukon, announced that the Government of Canada is investing nearly $800,000 to enhance the Yukon’s tourism sector. This funding will support seven businesses and organizations in offering new programs, experiences, and services; expanding their capacity to accommodate overnight guests; improving accessibility; and transitioning to clean energy.

Through investments like these, the Government of Canada is aiding the expansion and diversification of businesses and organizations that provide accommodation and experiences in the North, further strengthening the Yukon’s tourism sector.

The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor “Unique experiences are a staple of the Yukon’s tourism industry. Our government is supporting the Yukon’s tourism sector to expand visitor experiences and amenities year round. These projects improve regional tourism assets, support active tourism, and give visitors and locals another reason to spend more time in the Yukon, benefitting other businesses and attractions.”

The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec “Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon provide the opportunity to see something truly distinct. With its expansive wilderness, unique wildlife and rich cultures and traditions, Northern Canada has it all for lovers of the great outdoors from around the globe. Through the Tourism Growth Program, the Government of Canada is supporting these local businesses and organizations to expand and grow. Development of the tourism sector has enormous potential and is key to building prosperous Indigenous and northern communities.”

 Dr. Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for the Yukon   “The Yukon offers unforgettable tourism experiences. The Yukon’s tourism sector drives economic growth while celebrating the territory’s vibrant cultures and natural wonders. Our government supports projects that strengthen and diversify the Yukon’s tourism sector, encouraging both locals and visitors to tour and experience the territory’s many world-class attractions throughout the year.”

 Patricia Cunning, Executive Director, MacBride Museum “We appreciate this investment by CanNor to build new programs and experiences for our visitors. Recently, we hosted a picnic on the Woodchuck, a historic British Yukon Navigation river boat, to showcase the Yukon’s river history. This type of event to share and celebrate our history in new and vibrant ways would be impossible without the support of CanNor.”

Candace Dow, Owner, Northern Nomad Outdoors and Yoga “We would like to send a huge thank you to CanNor and the Yukon Government for their continued support for small businesses in the North. Here, we are reminded of the power of community and collaboration. Much gratitude for standing by our small Indigenous-owned business as we embark on new projects and keep things exciting North of 60. Keep your eyes peeled for the Cardinal Camp at the Nomad Ranch.”

Hardy Ruf, Owner, Dalton Trail Lodge “For the past 35 years the Dalton Trail Lodge burned about 50,000 liters of diesel each year. Thanks to the generous help of CanNor we finally ordered a solar power system this spring, and it should be running by February 2025. It will save more than 40,000 liters of diesel annually and Dalton Trail Lodge will be a much quieter place with a lot smaller carbon footprint.”

Andrea Simpson-Fowler, Owner, Cabins Over Crag Lake “We are incredibly grateful for the support from CanNor, which has enabled us to expand our facilities at Cabins Over Crag Lake. We can now accommodate up to 40 guests in our new bunkhouses, provide homemade wood-fired pizza and sourdough bread, and host cold plunge sauna experiences—all with stunning views. We’re especially thrilled to welcome 40 breaking and hip-hop dancers to Cypher for Change this August. We are committed to working hard to continue building our business and serving Yukoners and visitors from beyond.”

Ron Gartshore, CEO, Carmacks Development Corporation “We are extremely grateful for CanNor’s support in funding our project to bring eco-friendly prefabricated bunkhouses to Carmacks. This initiative not only addresses the urgent need for short-term accommodations in our region but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious development. The addition of these rental structures will enhance our capacity to attract and accommodate tourists, contributing to the growth and vitality of our community. We look forward to the positive impact this project will have on Carmacks and the broader region.”

Jake Paleczny, Executive Director, Yukon Wildlife Preserve “The fat bikes were an immediate hit with our visitors! They are a novel and distinctly northern way of getting outside to explore. And they work year around, not just when there’s snow on the ground. There aren’t too many places where you can rent a fat bike to see a moose, go get a coffee and then go soak in the hot springs—all in one trip.”