Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada? If you're planning to go to Watson Lake, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Watson Lake
- Important essentials for Watson Lake
- Activities for Watson Lake
- Watson Lake in January: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in February: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in March: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in April: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in May: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in June: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in July: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in August: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in September: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in October: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in November: weather and what to pack
- Watson Lake in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada
Based on the climate and weather in Watson Lake, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Watson Lake, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can wear out. An unreadable vaccination card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection you can have.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one is sufficent for most countries, but you should check with your hotel.
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Watson Lake. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
If you are traveling to Watson Lake in January, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Neck gaiter/ski mask
-
Thick pajamas
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Night cap
It's important to wear something on your head at night here like this
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Heated gloves
-
Coveralls
We like:
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
February
If you go to Watson Lake in February, you will notice that it is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Thick pajamas
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Neck gaiter/ski mask
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
-
Coveralls
We love:
-
Night cap
It's vital to wear a head protector at night in this climate like this
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Heated gloves
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
March
March in Watson Lake is very cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows regularly. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Thick pajamas
-
Coveralls
We like:
-
Neck gaiter/cold weather face mask
-
Heated gloves
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Night cap
It's suggested to wear a cap at night here like this
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
April
April in Watson Lake is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows once in a while. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Lip balm
The best option: this one
-
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is an excellent option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
May
May in this region is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
-
Extra socks
-
Jacket or coat
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Watson Lake, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
June
In June, Watson Lake is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Watson Lake, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
July
July in Watson Lake is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
August
In August, Watson Lake is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Watson Lake, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
September
Traveling to Watson Lake in September, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
October
October in this region can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
November
In November, Watson Lake is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C) and sometimes jump into the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits below 0 F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Watson Lake, with of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Thick pajamas
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
-
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear something on your head at night here like this
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Coveralls
We love:
-
Heated gloves
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Watson Lake, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is a great choice.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
December
December in Watson Lake is biting cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C), with a few days below -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Heated gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Neck warmer/ski mask
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Thick pajamas
-
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear something on your head at night in this climate like this
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: here
-
Coveralls
We love:
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Watson Lake, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
If you go to Signpost Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
Check out our guides for these other locations: Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Daintree National Park, Queensland, Australia, Shannon, New Zealand, Mogilev Oblast, Belarus, Modoc County, California, United States of America, Koh Russei, Cambodia, Central, Louisiana, United States of America, Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada, Mishawaka, Indiana, United States of America, Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil, and Guihulngan, Philippines.