Off-Peak

Whitehorse in October 2026

Adventure travellers wanting aurora, dog sledding, and Yukon wilderness wildlife. Here's everything you need to plan your October visit.

✦8/10

🌡️ Weather in Whitehorse in October

0°C

Avg Temperature

cool to cold — insulated jacket and gloves

10h

Dark Hours / Night

Some darkness — limited aurora viewing window

🟡 Medium

Aurora Likelihood

Aurora possible on clear, dark nights — bring a camera just in case

October in Whitehorse sits at 0°C average, which is cool to cold — insulated jacket and gloves. Expect around 10 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in October

🟡 Medium likelihood· Aurora score 8/10

Whitehorse has a base aurora score of 8/10. In October, aurora is possible on clear nights. With 10 hours of darkness, you have reasonable viewing windows if solar activity cooperates.

Tips for aurora chasing in October: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.

🎯 What to Do in Whitehorse in October

✓Northern Lights Tours

✓Aurora Camp (overnight vigil)

✓Aurora Photography

✓Husky / Dog Sledding

✓Snowmobile Safari

✓Cross-Country Skiing

✓Snowshoeing

✓Ice Fishing

✓Photography Tours

Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.

🎒 What to Pack for October in Whitehorse

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Thermal base layers, fleece or down mid-layer, waterproof outer shell

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Waterproof hiking or snow boots with good grip on icy terrain

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Warm hat and insulated gloves; layers you can remove as you warm up

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Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod

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Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket

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Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

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Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare

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Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities

📦 View the full interactive packing list for Whitehorse →

🏨 Accommodation in October

Off-Peak

Off-peak pricing means good deals — expect around $50/night. Some specialist aurora lodges may close; check availability in advance. Northern Lights Lodges, Aurora Inn, Wilderness Cabins remain available year-round.