The Untamed Yukon: Epic Canoe Journey Down the Wild Yukon River

If ever there was a river that captured the imagination of paddlers and explorers all over the world, it would probably be the Yukon River. This 700 kilometre route, from Whitehorse to Dawson City, is arguably a bucket list canoe trip for every canoeist.
In the summer of 2023, Ashley and I (Keenan) would paddle this route, fishing, exploring and camping along the way. This river is like a living museum, with artifacts from the gold rush era seemingly around every bend. The wildlife viewing opportunities are astounding. It’s not uncommon to see bears, moose, or deer meandering along the shoreline, as beavers slap their tails and bald eagles watch cautiously from the rivers’ edge.
It is this very river that initially sparked mine and Ashley’s passion for canoe tripping. Several years ago, whilst on a backpacking trip in the Yukon, we ended up taking a day trip on the river that forever changed our lives. That may seem like a big over exaggeration but it’s true! I don't think I had ever done something I loved as much as canoeing that day! From that point on, we have spent almost every summer exploring Canada by canoe! We will always have a special place in our hearts for the Yukon River. This is an outstanding and unique waterway that we are so fortunate to have experienced. Please join us for this incredible journey into this Canadian wilderness paradise!
We sincerely hope you guys enjoy this film. We couldn't be happier to share this with you!
Poem read at beginning of film - Spell of the Yukon by Robert Service
Map Book we used for this trip - Yukon River by Mike Rourke
**** The shelter we use is a just a 10x12 tarp with custom sewn in bug netting that clips on. Nothing special or fancy. We get asked a lot about this setup and we love it *********
We have added a "Buy me a Coffee" link below for anyone who would like to contribute towards future Canoe the North films:
www.buymeacoffee.com/canoethe...
And don't forget to check out our Instagram account and facebook (links below) for regular content and updates:
/ canoethenorth
canoethenor...
#canoethenorth

[@MountainDreamer225]

From deep in the united states in south Louisiana from a 79 yr old man many thanks to both of you and your precious dogs for bringing us along and keeping my dreams coming true seeing this beautiful country.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much for this comment. Really do appreciate it and we are glad we can take you there through film. Thanks again.

[@tweedytreks]

Your wife is the cutest human ever. Her laugh is great.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much. Her laugh always gets me! Appreciate the comment.

[@jimfraser9898]

your narration is like reading a great book that you can not put down, even if your ready to sleep. Love you enduring adventures.

[@user-zm5dw9vr5d]

I totally agree. This video is very good!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s really nice. Thank you very much.

[@kccox3446]

What!!!! Could I be so lucky!!! Pizza night an hour and a half with Canoe, the North, my faves.❤❤❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Enjoy the pizza 🍕 and the 🎥. Thank you!!!

[@LisaBlooper]

@@CanoeTheNorth What do you use for painters. I often see some kind of flat white cord. Is that polyester? Where did you get it? Thanks

[@joyrobinson4585]

The umbrella was too good. Had a great laugh. Thank you for taking us along on this wonderful trip. Halfway when this comment is being written and I'm settling in for the rest.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Glad you enjoyed the umbrella scene. We had a good laugh at this scene when we were putting this video together. 😂.

[@terrywhite9017]

You're right, nothing like a beautiful umbrella scene 😂😂😊.

[@ataglance556]

As a fellow Canadian I tell ya eh that them WILD umbrella's are very sneaky eh......, they pop up out of nowhere and then just block all the views, and it didn't even say sorry eh....lol..... well that's alright....in the end it all worked out lol...

[@ThisHandleFeatureIsStupid]

Making chicks laugh like that = manhood passed. 👌

[@grindpalm]

Masterpiece! Master of peace... ❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you! Hope you enjoy the video.

[@grindpalm]

​@@CanoeTheNorth And a nice aerial view of the goats - splendid! ❤

[@markliebrock6246]

Always worth the wait. An amazing adventure. Breath taking scenery. Thanks for sharing.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you! Appreciate the comment very much.

[@beverlykovic8563]

One of the best outdoor films I have seen. Beautiful crafted. Thank you

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s very nice of you. Thank you.

[@ezlow1065]

Thankyou for sharing a beautiful journey. Ash has such a sweet face and the umbrella was gold! 😆😃😄 Love you guys 💚Greetings from Aus

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! Thank you very much ☂️ 🇦🇺

[@LostLakes]

A brilliant piece of work, as ever 👏

[@LostLakes]

Oh and Ashley's giddy waving and redacted high five were amazing

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Hahaha....ya we had a good laugh at that as well. Thanks very much for watching guys. Hope you two have had a great winter.

[@gemigirl5521]

Perfect intro.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you! 🎥 🛶

[@marksmith9295]

That was really something to watch! Very well done on every level I can think of. I wish i was as chill as Hugo going through that first wave train. Glad you used the longboat. Thanks for sharing this epic adventure...I will be watching this again on the weekend:)

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Hugo is sooo calm isn’t he. It always makes you laugh. Appreciate the comment and support very much.

[@maximbudnick]

Glorious

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks Max. Appreciate it.

[@BrentLackner-iu4vn]

Nicely done, My favorite outdoor channel! Surprised you don’t have more subscribers. Sign up folks, this couple/channel is the real deal..

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Wow, thank you! That’s really nice of you. Thanks so much.

[@bradmoxon1061]

Truly a great accomplishment! Thank you for sharing this amazing journey. So well done.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@LostInTheWildCanada]

I always wait for your video drops. Great production. ❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you!

[@daveysdash]

Your hand out the window set the tone. Man alive I love you guy's. Thank you vor sharing this Dash!!! - Davey.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you Davey!!!

[@jayburne6825]

You guys do the coolest trips thanks for sharing.....

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You’re more than welcome. We’re happy to share these trips with people like you.

[@mattb3283]

Working threw obstacles as one unit...calm..purposeful...encouraging..exploring and living life with a common goal not wasted or lost in today's rat race most live in. Thank you both for reminding us of what this means.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you soo much! Very nice.

[@davidankenbrand6503]

Keenan, I am in awe of your video skill! This is why I wait for each release. Please keep them coming.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much. Lots more to come.

[@swalker723]

I love this. My dad took our family on this trip when I was 10 years old. Some of my best memories.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s an awesome trip for a family to take.

[@maplehouseknives]

What a magical video, the mixed emotions from start to finish were easily conveyed. Congratulations on your wonderful journey, not just on the Yukon but life itself! Greetings from Germany!👍🍻

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks really nice. Thank you! 🇩🇪 🇨🇦

[@marysincavage4864]

Your videography in this is Next Level! It's a joy to see your skills/artistry blooming!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Wow, thank you! Really appreciate it. Lots to learn still but it’s been a lot of fun so far.

[@michaelpickford4294]

Saving this for Saturday night!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Hope you have a great weekend. Appreciate the early comment.

[@maripurdiie6666]

love love love this. Thank you!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

So glad! Thank you.

[@reginahiesel]

You two are incredibly talentedand precious. I love watching the two of you paddle in some of the most beautiful places on earth.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks so much 😊. That's very nice of you to say!

[@heikeobermann6026]

The trip is so nice. That's my dream. I was on the teslin and nislutin River . So beatyfull....

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Those are both beautiful rivers as well. Thanks for the comment.

[@audreyross7245]

You guys are awesome. Glad I found you.❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

We are glad you found our channel as well!!!

[@paularuotsalainen979]

Thank you very much for sharing this wonderful, inspiring and so beautifully filmed video, Ashley and Keenan, and your extremely well behaving canine friends 😍😍 You got a new subscriber from the currently snowy and chilly Finland. Wishing you all the best and amazing new adventures!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much! Hope you are staying warm in Finland. There’s a country we’d love to visit one day. Appreciate the support very much. 🇫🇮 🇨🇦

[@gmariet1391]

Love the sweet peace of the mass spans of great scenery with the sound of the water . Being an Adventurous couple with wonderful dogs appreciating beauty and time together makes for such great journeys! Thanks for sharing !

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You’re more than welcome. Thanks so much for the comment.

[@harrybutt2089]

A truly remarkable, peaceful, and soul restoring trip!🛶🎣

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s a nice comment. Thank you.

[@user-bk1kk9tl9b]

What an awesome video guys! Great job capturing the exquisite beauty of the Yukon river! Always enjoy your trips so much!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks so much!

[@mezatman]

Mükemmel belgesel size ve ailenize ömür boyu mutluluklar

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s very nice. Thank you so much.

[@troydavidson1803]

Wow, awesome footage. Great video, Looked like a great time.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you. It certainly was an amazing trip.

[@jaysway2346]

What a video! This was so good and the jokes back and forth were the icing on the river.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank so much Jay! Glad you enjoyed this one! ☂️ 😂

[@zoerussell5107]

As always, amazing cinematography, loving the bits of humour incorporated, the umbrella bit was so funny. Those baby bears were so cute.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks mum. 😊 ☂️

[@sierrashere6957]

The umbrella scene was a crack-up 😅😂😊 P.S. the whole video was beyond awesome, thank you for letting us canoe along !

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! Glad you enjoyed the umbrella ☂️ scene. 😂

[@bertschuh5720]

So great!!!! Thanks for taking me along on thismarvelous river!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure!

[@waynegiles1517]

Such a beautiful journey. ❤ Miigwech🪶

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you!! Miigwech

[@stevefrompeterborough4007]

lol, the umbrella footage. Too funny. What an awesome trip.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you! ☂️ 😂

[@jonb8481]

Awsome, thanks to both of you for sharing an amazing trip.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You’re more than welcome.

[@jeremymegit968]

Wonderful video. I was engaged the entire video. This video is truely a work of art. Thank you for taking me on the journey and putting all the effort into producing this video.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

This is a great comment to receive. Really appreciate it very much

[@sherrierifenberg2199]

What an amazing trip! So blessed! TY!😎🛶

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much. 🛶 🎥

[@robertlindsey6563]

Loved your film!! It's got me pumped up to plan my summer trips!! Love your work!!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Common summer! Hope you have some amazing trips planned!

[@robertlindsey6563]

they won't be the Yukon but I hope they'll be epic! @@CanoeTheNorth

[@jimfromoregonusa9899]

Operator error..apparently didn't hit the comment button, and this is worth a re-write. I am so so happy to have been on this adventure, via video, with you two and the family critters! I am not sure I have the right words to express just how great this was, how well done, except to say....'EPIC"....SO my paddle and pack are ready for your next journey.....Thanks so much you two for sharing!! Again excellent job in filming and narrative!!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

We always really appreciate your comments Jim. Glad you enjoyed this one. Hope you have an amazing year of paddling ahead of you.

[@donthomas8724]

Such a treasure! Thank you for a perfect trip down a historic Canadian river, by a wonderful Canadian couple and their two adventurous hounds. Wildlife abounds and you capture it with ease. Anyone who has paddled a fast river knows how hard that can be. Ashley must be the talented filmographer for many scenes, since she is at the bow. The drone shots and music choices rounded out a spectacular video. Anxious to see the next one, which you do mention...

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much. Ashley does a great job while I’m messing around with the camera. 🎥

[@gloriabonito4907]

My dear friend Mr Winslow loved paddling the Yukon. He is gone now but your video brought back the memories he shared with me. Thank you!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

We are sorry to hear about your friend but we are glad we could bring back some memories.

[@kristennoelle9447]

Guess who's back..back again.. Ashley's back..tell a friend 🙏💜

[@CanoeTheNorth]

😂 she’s back!!!

[@KuldaevaWatercolor]

Dear Ashley and Keenan, I am in awe of the scenery along the Yukon River! Thank you for sharing your unique experiences with us, and please keep on paddling! Sending hugs to both of you and your dogs 🤗

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! We’ll give the dogs some love for ya! 😊

[@darrenthompson8376]

How do you not have more subs?? Your vids are truly amazing. Thanks for sharing !!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

I appreciate that! We just keep focusing on making the best films we possibly can. Thanks so much for the nice comment and support.

[@highlandtrekker]

This was an hour and a half of shear pleasure. You guys are magical together ! it is so apparent of your love for each other and your passion for tripping, what a treat. Thanks for taking us along !!!!. Cheers from Cape Breton Nova Scotia

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! Thank you for your nice comments. Appreciate it very much.

[@robbiefoster2481]

Im just finding your videos. The editing work is INCREDIBLE. Thank you for taking us on these adventures! I hope to do something like this one day in these beautiful places.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much. We hope you get the chance to paddle these beautiful rivers one day!

[@terrywhite9017]

Good morning Keenan and Ashley. I don't know how I missed this one being uploaded. This is a beautiful and wonderful video. I really enjoyed it and will be watching it again. What a great trip. Thank you, Terry

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much! Glad you found this video!!!

[@baxter2413]

Great video. Great trip and great music as usual. Your videos totally engulf me from start to finish; so much so that watching you two cook and eat that fish, I found myself starting to raise my hand to have a piece of it. Not all was lost though because that hand was holding a fine cigar I was thoroughly enjoying throughout your awesome video. 😉

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s awesome. Thank you!!!

[@konokiefel855]

This was an outstanding video. So great and relaxing. A dream trip for most of us..thanks for the Views..

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank so much for the comment.

[@danalawrence4473]

Omigod! 55 years ago I drove- with high-school friends- from Detroit to Alaska via the TransCanadian Hwy and the AlCan, and we spent time in Dawson City and the sour toe was there more than half a century ago! The road may differ, be upgraded but some things never change, and thank goodness! Beautiful video!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That’s amazing. I’m sure that was the trip of a lifetime. What an amazing place!

[@dustyroselansall8185]

Keenan & Ashley - thank you for 'taking' me to places I have never been and never will get to - for sharing the beauty of nature as she is with us all. At closing in on 83 yrs, I am content to sit comfortably at home and watch you two 'go wild.' The 5 finger rapids were amazing. Questions: I know Betty-Lou goes on most of your solo adventures, but what is the other dogs name, and how old are they both?

[@CanoeTheNorth]

We couldn’t be happier to share these adventures with people like yourself. Thank you so much for all of your nice comments. Hugo is our other dogs name. He’ll be 13 this summer and Betty Lou is 7 now 🐶.

[@LouisD2023]

Beautiful! Very nice cinematic editing. Makes me dream of being there. Thank you for sharing.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much! Glad you enjoyed the edit.

[@DempsterDave]

Thanks for sharing your adventure, guys.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks for watching!

[@adventureben22]

Hey! You have both dogs on this trip. Fun times. I'm saving this one so I can watch it with my partner this weekend.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@frankhunt5018]

Guys, this was the best umbrella on the Yukon video ever!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

😂 😂 ☔️

[@rawrockies]

Amazing. Such a good format, and as always.. a beautiful story told.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Wow, thank you!

[@deja00]

I am impressed by the high quality of your audio, and video seems great too.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you!

[@crushkomnat]

This was a wonderful video. Thank you

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You are so welcome! Thank you!

[@lifewcare]

Stunning. Thank you.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you too!

[@pauline-bc-com-missp]

JUST WOW 😮

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks you!

[@alphacentauri8083]

That was awesome! I always had a fascination with Yukon. After seeing your video I'm definitely going to make a trip to The Yukon soon.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Have fun! It’s an incredible place.

[@Robin_Polarstern]

Hello, my dears, I love watching your adventures ;) I really relax a lot when I watch these videos. Whether on the couch at the weekend or when I'm sick. Thanks for the relaxing adventure. Greetings from Germany 🇩🇪 Robin

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks Robin. 🇩🇪 🇨🇦

[@Randy-dh9zr]

Favorite channel. Look forward to each video

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much.

[@yeoldfart8762]

Always look forward to your videos. Thanks again for taking us along.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@naturecalls80]

Beautiful river nice summer❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks for visiting

[@yvindjensen1215]

Loved every second of it! You are such an inspiration. All the best from Scandinavia!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much!

[@Brentdarley]

Wow!

[@RiverbendlongbowsOutdoors]

Absolutely wonderful film 👍🏻

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you kindly!!! 🏹

[@np12778]

Absolutely stunning cinematography, the drone footage is unreal! Thank you so much for sharing ❤

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You’re more than welcome. Thank you very much for the comment.

[@WVWes]

Epic as usual! Keep em coming!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks! Will do!

[@brianyoungberg8750]

Another amazing video! Your video skills and story telling are amazing. Always look forward to seeing your videos.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you. We are glad to hear that! Appreciate the support.

[@TimyTallgrass]

2019 I got the opportunity to travel down 2000 miles of the Yukon starting at the Llwellyn Glacier took about 28 days. When you talk about the thirty mile being the most scenic you are so right! You captured your trip amazingly! I can't wait to make it back again!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much. That’s such a cool trip to take. I’d it was easier to get our dogs out from the end of the Yukon we’d love to do the same trip. Sounds like a blast. Looks like you also enjoy filming and photography. Thanks very much for the comment.

[@dani4elle]

I feel like im in with your journey.This is so well done!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you!

[@beatnpotatoes]

Absolutely beautiful. I need to go back to the Yukon now. Amazing video.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You should! It’s an amazing place.

[@jacobjonsson8335]

Amazing! What a trip.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you.

[@TheYukonnahanni]

Thank-you for this Beautiful Vid !!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure! Thank you too.

[@gumpkimsg]

너무 아름다운 영상입니다.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you so much!!!

[@markpatterson5250]

I love the Yukon River. It is one of earth's most beautiful and majestic rivers, if not THE most from the headwaters in the Lluellen Glacier to the Bering Sea. But......to be a "wild" river, to me, that means no dams (not that I'm against them) or river diversions and the Whitehorse dam "tames" that small section of the mighty Yukon River. Thank you for a great video.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you. Yes you’re right about the dam. I actually always forget about the fact that the Yukon is damned.

[@markpatterson5250]

Thanx for the nice reply. Your video is still awesome of one of God's greatest creations, the Yukon River. But I must correct you, my friend, the Yukon is blessed (not damNed), even though it has a daM on it (ha ha). Your nice video has me reading Robert Service's poem of Sam Magee on Lake Lebarge. I've seen the beautiful lake, but not been on it, so please tell me.......is there a current out in the middle of that beautiful lake?@@CanoeTheNorth

[@Ankur_explores]

Very relaxing!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Glad you think so! Thank you!

[@jasongodmaire7552]

Thank you.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

You're welcome!

[@Foxwizard35]

I love seeing these beautiful videos of my country

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Its a beautiful place!

[@elizabethappleton3667]

You know how beautiful your videos are and your entire trips. All about the trip. Thank you.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much for the nice comment.

[@user-mn2np1id1s]

河から見るユーコン河の景色もいいですね! われAlaska　Gralingと言うところで早50年ほど前にANCよりチャータ機に塩、食糧などを積んでそこに行き 2機のセスナ機を雇いKING SALMON ROEを蚊に刺されながら仲間と作ったことがあります。 ユーコン河から丸太ん棒を拾い集めて製造する小屋造りから始めていましたね! 懐かしい大河です！ ゆっ作り見ることが出来てうれしいですね!😄

[@CanoeTheNorth]

That is very interesting! Sounds amazing. Thank you very much for your comment.

[@tanyanagorski8128]

❤❤❤loved this one! You know it’s a hit when you feel like you were transported there!!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

We are very glad to hear that. Thank you so much.

[@GAR85120514]

Two thumbs up.

[@rebeccadees2300]

A stunning video! Thank you for sharing this.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Our pleasure!

[@arenado85]

Amazing. Simply amazing.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Many thanks!

[@ralfhedin]

I love the atmosphere you create. Tnx a million for yet another great video. One and a halv hour flew by.

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you. The fact that the 1.5hr flew by is a great compliment. Appreciate it.

[@tailwindsnorth1905]

Really enjoyed this one. The Yukon River was also our first big river trip in 2016 and is the reason we keep going back. This video brought back some great memories checking out all the old relics. We hope to cross paths with you sometime out there!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank guys. Yukon kinda gets under your skin doesn’t it. Hope we cross paths out there as well. We’ll see you in the water! Hope you guys have another awesome summer up north.

[@JamesKeltan]

AMAZING shots

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thanks!

[@JeffMacCullough]

Another great trip. Fantastic scenery!!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you!

[@GenericChris]

Holy damn, that video is amazing. Looks like you had the adventure of a lifetime man!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

It certainly was. Thank you.

[@kenhorneland7060]

Did a 3 day and a 5 day canoe trip. Wonderful!

[@SanJuanMountainBob]

What an incredible journey and video. You did an excellent job filming, editing, and selecting music. Very enjoyable - thanks for sharing!

[@CanoeTheNorth]

Thank you very much for the comment. Glad you enjoyed the video.