11-Day Guided Yukon Backpacking Expedition to Donjek Glacier (Dän Zhùr Route)

Journey to Kluane National Park

Today, we embark on an exciting adventure as we head west toward the stunning Kluane National Park, passing through Haines Junction. After a scenic drive of about an hour, we’ll arrive at Haines Junction, where we'll check in for our adventure at the Da Ku Cultural Centre. While we take care of the necessary paperwork, feel free to immerse yourself in the exhibits showcasing the rich history of Kluane National Park and the local Champagne and Aishihik First Nation.

Next, we’ll journey north to Kluane Lake, the largest lake in Yukon, where we'll set up camp for the evening. After settling in, we’ll gather for a delicious, hearty meal together and discuss the exciting experiences that lie ahead on our journey.

Hike to Horse Camp

After a filling breakfast to fuel the day, we’ll drive a short distance to the trailhead, just 10km north of Burwash Landing. This is where our adventure truly begins, as we leave the comforts of civilization behind and start our journey toward the Donjek Glacier. The first day’s hike is gentle and easygoing, mostly following an old mining route that’s now overgrown in parts. At times, we’ll weave through willows and brush, but nothing too challenging.

As the day winds down, we’ll reach the Burwash Uplands and set up camp, where we’ll spend our first night immersed in the wilderness, surrounded by the beauty of the land.

Your Ultimate Wilderness Adventure—No Trails, Just Pure Wild

Forget the easy way out. Get ready to dive into an adventure where every step is an epic story, and every day is a new chapter of untamed fun. For 8 days, we’re leaving those boring trails behind and plunging straight into the wild. Armed with a map, compass, GPS, and a guide who’s like a human GPS (but way cooler), we’ll find our way even when there isn’t one.

Brace yourself for some seriously wild terrain. One moment, you'll be stomping across the rugged tundra, and the next, you'll be scrambling down steep, slippery scree slopes like a true adventurer. There will be mountain ridges to hug, dense forests to crash through, and rivers so fast, you'll be wading like you're in a race. And if heights aren't your thing, there might be a few moments that’ll have you clinging to your hat—but trust us, it's all part of the thrill.

When we say "off-trail," we mean we’re not just avoiding the “beaten path”—we’re getting into the real deal. We’re in the wild, where every kilometer feels like two, and the challenge is half the fun. The good news? Your guide knows this terrain like the back of their hand and will make sure you stay safe while embracing the adventure. Sure, it might take a little longer, but we're in it for the experience, not for speed.

But hey, it’s not all tough terrain. There are plenty of sweet spots along the way. Imagine strolling through the wide, flat gravel beds of the Donjek River Valley, or gliding across the grassy alpine slopes, all while soaking in the jaw-dropping views of Kluane National Park’s towering peaks. No filter needed for these vistas—they’ll leave you speechless.

Now, about your pack. You’ll be carrying between 7-9 kg of shared gear and food along with your personal stuff. That’s right—your tent, food, and everything else you need for the trek will be riding on your back. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the experience! And the payoff? Standing just meters away from the massive ice face of the Donjek Glacier—it’ll make you feel small in the best way possible.

The wildlife here is straight out of a nature documentary. Moose, caribou, and maybe even a bear could make an appearance, so keep those eyes peeled. But the real showstopper? The views—the towering mountains, the glaciers, and the wild beauty that stretches as far as you can see. This is the kind of beauty that stays with you long after the trek is over.

At the end of each day, we’ll pitch camp, whip up some seriously tasty meals, and kick back under a starry sky. Expect to hike 5-7 hours a day with an elevation gain of 300 meters, peaking at around 1,000 meters on the toughest days. And don’t sweat it, Day 5 is a “chill day”—time to roam around camp without that heavy pack weighing you down, and it’s also our backup plan if Mother Nature decides to throw a curveball.

Day 10: The Grand Finale – Back to Civilization (and Beer!)

After an epic 9 days of trekking through the wild, Day 10 is all about winding down and celebrating your accomplishments. We’ll finish the trek and make our way back to civilization, where the simple pleasures of life await: a hot shower, snacks, and, of course, a well-earned cold beer. You’ve earned it, trust us!

It’s our last night together as a group, so we’ll hit up Haines Junction for a delicious dinner and soak in what this charming little town has to offer. (And yes, that might include more than one beer, depending on how many steps you've taken.) After we've refueled and shared stories of our adventures, we’ll head back to our final camp spot for a last night under the stars.

The following day, we’ll pack up and head back to Whitehorse, where you can take a breath, kick off your boots, and start processing all the memories from an unforgettable trek.

Day 11: A Relaxed Morning & A Step Back in Time

It’s our last morning in the wild, and we’re taking it slow. After enjoying a hearty breakfast and sipping a warm cup of coffee by the fire, we’ll pack up camp one last time. The day ahead is a chill ride back to Whitehorse, where the adventure officially ends. But before you start to miss the backcountry, take a moment to reflect—because at this point, you’re stepping into a bit of Yukon's history.

As we drive back, you'll pass through areas that have their own stories to tell. The landscape around Whitehorse is rich with the kind of history that made this region the rugged, wild place it is today. So even as you head home, a part of the Yukon’s soul will be with you, waiting to be explored further...

This is one of our most physically demanding backpacking expeditions and is intended for experienced, very fit hikers. Expect nine consecutive full hiking days, generally covering 10–15 km per day across primarily off-trail terrain, with significant elevation gain, steep and uneven ground, river crossings, and changing mountain conditions. You’ll carry a heavy backpack containing your personal equipment, a share of group gear, and food for the expedition. Strong endurance, previous multi-day backpacking experience, and proven comfort carrying a loaded pack over consecutive days are essential. You’ll be camping in remote backcountry areas with no facilities, so you must also be mentally prepared for sustained effort, discomfort, and true wilderness living.

A 25% deposit is required to secure all bookings.

Cancellation Schedule

• More than 90 days before departure: Full refund less a 4% payment processing fee and $100 CAD administrative fee
• 90 to 61 days before departure: 25% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
• 60 days or less before departure: 100% of the total trip cost is non-refundable

If you are unable to attend your trip, please contact us as soon as possible. Subject to availability and operational considerations, we may be able to offer a trip transfer, participant substitution, or trip credit.

Please Note
Trips operate in remote wilderness environments where weather, wildfires, transportation disruptions, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances may impact itineraries or trip operations.

Yusquatch Mountain Adventures reserves the right to modify, delay, reroute, postpone, substitute activities, or cancel trips when necessary for safety or operational reasons.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, and evacuation coverage.

For full details, please refer to our complete Cancellation & Terms Policy.