Our original Arctic Ocean trip itinerary included attending Atlin’s music festival on the return journey. Unfortunately, like many events, it fell victim to covid restrictions.

Despite the cancellation, we decided to stick to our plan and include Atlin in our trip. To our delight, a surprise awaited us! A scaled-down version of the festival was happening the day we arrived. Most of the talented musicians hailed from Whitehorse, with a special shoutout to the kid’s band, “Cows Go Moo.” One of my personal favorites was DanChic Duo, whose music resonated deeply.

The festival offered more than just music. There were fiddle workshops, glass-blowing demonstrations, Scottish dancing puppet theater, a plethora of children’s activities, and much more.

But even without the festival, Atlin itself is a treasure trove of experiences. The historic houses, though inhabited, are adorned with signs reflecting their origins, creating a unique open-air museum.

A must-visit is the mineral springs, offering fresh, clean water and a chance to harvest watercress at ‘The Grotto’.

Further down the road, you’ll find the aptly named Warm Springs, not to be confused with hot springs because they are warm… Not hot!

This is where our adventure was further enriched by meeting Liz, Michael, and Sylvie. Michael is a film maker whose recent film, YINTAH, chronicles the fight for ancestral lands by Howilhkat Freda Huson and Sleydo’ Molly Wickham against the Canadian government and fossil fuel corporations.

There are screenings throughout Canada and although we have missed them in BC, you can see the  schedule on their website.  It is surely one you won’t want to miss.  It’s a story that deserves to be heard.