How to Get to Tincup Lodge: Your Complete Journey Guide
Everything you need to know about getting to Tincup Wilderness Lodge — from Whitehorse to Burwash Landing by road, then by helicopter or floatplane to the lake. Step-by-step logistics, what to expect, and how to prepare. Photo credit: Meinrad Humm, Tincup Wilderness Lodge
The Journey Begins in Whitehorse
Tincup Wilderness Lodge sits on the remote shores of Tincup Lake in the Yukon, accessible only by floatplane. The roughly 30-minute flight from Burwash Landing isn’t just transportation—it’s your first adventure in the northern wilderness.
Here’s everything you need to know about the journey.
Step-by-Step: Getting to Tincup Lodge
Step 1: Arrive in Whitehorse
Most guests fly into Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY), with direct flights from Vancouver, Calgary and seasonal routes from other Canadian cities.
Step 2: Meet Your Floatplane
From Whitehorse, the Lodge arranges a ground transfer along the Alaska Highway to Burwash Landing — approximately 280 km through some of the Yukon's most stunning roadside scenery. The drive takes roughly three hours and passes Haines Junction, Kluane Lake, and the edge of Kluane National Park. Some guests choose to overnight in Whitehorse or along the route before continuing.
Step 3: The Flight
From Burwash Landing, you board a helicopter or floatplane for the final leg into the backcountry. The scenic journey flies over:
Expansive Boreal forests
Pristine lakes and rivers
Potential wildlife sightings: moose, bears, and eagles
Remote landscapes, increasing in wilderness as you leave civilization behind
Step 4: Landing on Tincup Lake
Your pilot may do a scenic pass before landing, giving you a first look at the Lodge. The floatplane taxis to the dock, where hosts greet you.
What's Included in Your Floatplane Transfer
Your all-inclusive lodge package covers:
- Helicopter or floatplane flight from Burwash Landing to Tincup Lake (round-trip)
- Aviation fuel and landing fees
- Pilot and aircraft services
- Luggage handling (within weight limits)
Transfers are exclusive to lodge guests, with scheduling flexibility based on your arrival and weather.
Weather: What to Expect
Air travel in Yukon follows strict safety protocols. Delays are rare in summer (June–August) but possible in spring and fall.
Please note that Tincup Lodge cannot cover any extra accommodation, meal, or related expenses resulting from travel delays or cancellations, such as flight disruptions. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to help protect against unexpected changes to your travel plans. We also recommend building flexibility into your itinerary.
Luggage Guidelines
Both helicopters and floatplanes have limited cargo space. Here's how to pack:
Weight limit: 40–50 lbs per person
- Bag type: Soft-sided duffels or backpacks only
- Pack light and practical; layers are better than bulky clothing
- Rain gear, boots, and fishing gear are provided by the Lodge
- Specialty gear (camera, drones, etc.) should be cleared with the Lodge in advance.
Excess baggage may require a second flight or additional fees
First-Time Floatplane Flyer? Here's What to Know
The Aircraft
Depending on conditions and scheduling, your flight may be by floatplane (such as the classic de Havilland Beaver) or helicopter. Both are sturdy, proven aircraft for Yukon backcountry travel.
Seating: 4–6 passengers, all with window views
The Experience
When You Book Tincup Lodge:
- Noise: Bring earplugs or use provided headset
- Motion: Mild turbulence possible over mountains
- Views: Panoramic wilderness, wildlife spotting opportunities
The pilot is highly experienced and provides a safety briefing before takeoff.
Why the Floatplane Matters
This isn't just how you get there — it's part of the experience. Part of the core memories you'll be making. There's no road to Tincup Lake. No ferry. No shortcut. Just the Alaska Highway through some of the Yukon's most dramatic scenery, then a flight over roadless wilderness into the backcountry.
By the time you touch down, you're not just at a lodge — you're deep in one of the most untouched places left on Earth.
Quick Reference: Getting to Tincup
Ground Transfer: Whitehorse to Burwash Landing (~3 hours by road, arranged by the Lodge)
Flight: Helicopter or floatplane from Burwash Landing to Tincup Lake
Luggage Limit: 40–50 lbs per person, soft-sided bags only
Cost: All transfers included in Tincup Lodge package
Weather Delays: Possible; build flexibility into your plans
Seating: Small aircraft, window views
What to Bring: Camera, earplugs, sense of adventure