Whitehorse (pop. 28,201) is the capital and chief distribution and communication center of the Canadian territory of Yukon. Whitehorse lies on the west bank of the Yukon River, 111 miles (179 kilometers) north of Skagway, Alaska. It is on the Alaska Highway.
Most of Whitehorse’s workers hold jobs in government, tourism, and trade. The city also provides services and support to the mining industry. Mining products are shipped from Whitehorse to outside markets. The city has regional headquarters of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and many federal government departments. Lake trout and grayling swim in neighboring streams and lakes. The region has bears, moose, and other game animals.
Airlines link Whitehorse with cities in Canada and the United States. A dam built above Whitehorse Rapids in 1959 to furnish power has created a lake in Miles Canyon. Many gold seekers came past Whitehorse in the rush of 1897-1898. Whitehorse was named for the Yukon River rapids, which resemble the mane of a white horse.
