2013 VACATION PLANNER - Travel Yukon

WHITEHORSE
Our Community
Watson
Lake
Watson Lake
Located just inside the Yukon border, this
regional and transportation centre is the
Yukon’s third largest community. What
began as a fish camp and small airstrip at
Watson Lake boomed during the
construction of the Alaska Highway.
Today, the town still growls with highway
activity as thousands of travellers visit
Watson Lake on their northern road trips.
Population: 1,511
The U.S. Army built the Alaska Highway in 1942-43 – YG
Northern Lights Centre – YG
Driving the Alaska Highway – YG, R. Postma
Local Attractions
Sign Post Forest
Carl Lindley, a homesick U.S. soldier, posted
a signpost to his home town in 1942 and
today over 71,000 signs are hammered to
row upon row of posts. Visitors are welcome
to bring a sign of their own, or you can buy
a board and make one at the Watson Lake
Visitor Information Centre. Km 980, junction
of Alaska and Campbell highways.
www.watsonlake.ca
Northern Lights Centre
Watson Lake is home to the Yukon’s
only visitor facility dedicated to the
science and folklore of the aurora borealis.
Daily two-part presentations begin with
Big, a fascinating exploration of the
universe. Then witness the awe-inspiring
northern lights with Experience the Aurora.
Both shows are projected in high definition
on a 360˚ dome screen, creating a truly
“otherworldly” viewing experience.
www.northernlightscentre.ca
Historic Airport Terminal
Aviation enthusiasts must check out the
B.C.-Yukon Air Service hangar, tower and
displays at the Watson Lake Airport. This
is the only Yukon hangar that still stands
as a reminder of the days of the great
Northwest Staging Route program in the
1940s. Drive 10 minutes north on the
Robert Campbell Highway #4 and watch
for the airport sign on your left.
> Watson Lake travelyukon.com 31