Introduction
Yukon, also known as the Yukon, is one of Canada’s three territories, the westernmost and smallest of them. The territory’s name derives from the word ‘yu-kun-ah’ in the Gwich’in language, which means ‘great river’ (Wonders, 2021). Yukon borders the Northwest Territories to the east, American state of Alaska to the west, British Columbia to the south, and it extends to the Beaufort Sea northward (Arrive, 2020). Historically, it is inextricably linked to the great Klondike Gold Rush of the end of the 19th century, and the region’s mineral richness has been known about since then. However, according to Arrive (2020), the Arctic climate coupled with the farness from markets has restricted the economic utilization of these resources and the advancement of modern settlement. Instead, Yukon is one of the few North American frontiers, sparsely inhabited and with wilderness mostly untouched.
The Land
Yukon’s territory is located on three of seven Canadian physiographic regions. Its vast majority belongs to the Cordillera, while small areas in the North are within the Interior Plains and Arctic Lands (Wonders, 2021). Yukon is populated by mountains and plateaus, all of which extend to Alaska. Most of the land is in the watershed of the river it is named after, the Yukon River. The summer here is short, but its days are long, especially in the territory’s northern parts situated above the Arctic Circle. Wonders (2021) states that temperatures here tend to vary, from highs in the 90s F in the summer to lows in the -60 F in the winter. However, monthly averages do not significantly differ from those of some cities further east and south.
In many Yukon regions, vegetation is rare due to the dry, cool climates and nutrient-poor soil. Nevertheless, bodies of water are full of aquatic vegetation, and orchids bloom near some of them in the summer months. Common fish species include northern pike, Arctic grayling, and lake trout. Waterfowl and other birds common to North America live close to wetlands. Moreover, the territory is home to many large and small mammal species, including considerable grizzly bear and Dall sheep populations.
The Economy
The Yukon economy is diverse and dependent on mostly resource-based sectors, the main of which is mining. In the 1890s, gold production brought thousands of people to the territory, and it supports the region’s mining industry to this day (Arrive, 2020). However, it has significantly expanded and now includes silver, iron, lead, coal, tungsten, and more. As per Arrive (2020), Yukon’s second most important industry is tourism: its rich history and beautiful landscapes attract visitors. Seasonal tourism is relied on by many businesses such as accommodation, recreation, and tour guides. In addition to that, Yukon’s rivers make it possible to generate significant hydro-power. Energy is also produced through wind, natural gas, solar power, and the burning of diesel fuel (Arrive, 2020). Furthermore, Yukon’s agricultural sector is developing as more crops are cultivated nearby its main communities. Finally, Arrive (2020) states that the territory draws filmmakers and recording artists from across the country. Yukon’s fascinating scenery and long hours of sunlight allow a lot of filming, while the industry of high-quality recording contributes to better sound of songs and albums.
The People
Alongside Alaska, Yukon is the oldest continually inhabited North American region. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that about a quarter of the territory’s population are American Indians. According to Arrive (2020), most belong to Athabaskan-speaking groups, the largest of which is the Gwich’in group. The remainder of Yukon’s people are descendants of European immigrants or persons of mixed Aboriginal and immigrant origin. Seventy-five percent of Yukon’s residents live in Whitehorse, the capital city, and the rest is scattered throughout the territory (Arrive, 2020). Few still earn their living by hunting or fishing, and, with the exception of some distinct groups, most people today depend on paid employment. According to Canadian Visa (2022), in many occupations, wages are impressively high; however, since almost all fuel, food, and industrial goods get imported over long distances, the cost of living is high as well. There are notable differences in the standard of living between those who work in mining, transportation, and civil service and those who do not have the qualifications for such employment.
The Lifestyle
Yukon’s remoteness and pristine lands tend to be considered its main attractions. The most popular leisure activities include hiking, skiing, mountain climbing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, wildlife sighting, and dog sledding (Canadian Visa, 2022). Moreover, in the winter the sky is painted with the breathtaking Aurora Borealis, which is enjoyed best in tranquil spots out of town. Canadian Visa (2022) notes that Yukon’s cultural life is founded on unique northern traditions that include Aboriginal customs and beliefs, an active French-speaking community, and remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush. For a remote northern region, Yukon is the host of a variety of festivals celebrating its history, arts, and mesmerizing landscapes. Among the most poplar ones are Dawson Music Festival, the Frostbite Music Festival, the Yukon Storytelling Festival, and the Sourdough Rendezvous.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Yukon is a region with unique, mostly unspoiled nature and an economy dependent on the area’s natural resources. One can feel secure about the future of the territory as it continues to grow and develop despite many obstacles, such as climate and isolation from other lands. Yukon offers many job opportunities in its most advanced sectors and has a cultural life that will not leave anybody bored. Those who prefer peace, quiet, and closeness to wildlife will be happy to live here.
References
Arrive. (2020). Provincial spotlight: Introduction to Yukon for newcomers. Web.
Canadian Visa. (2022). Life in Yukon. Web.
Wonders, W. C. (2021). Yukon. The Canadian Encyclopedia. Web.