Pelly Crossing

A small Indigenous community on the Pelly River where visitors can experience authentic Yukon culture and meet local artists. The village offers insight into Selkirk First Nation heritage and traditional ways of life.

Things to do

• Pelly River Fishing — Fish for northern pike and whitefish in the Pelly River, a traditional food source for the Selkirk First Nation and a prime spot during summer months.
• Visit Local Artist Studios — Meet Selkirk First Nation artisans in their studios to watch traditional beadwork, hide tanning, and see contemporary Indigenous art being created.
• Selkirk First Nation Cultural Centre — Learn about Selkirk First Nation history, traditions, and contemporary life through exhibits and displays within the community.
• Dog Sledding in Winter — Experience traditional dog sledding with local mushers during winter months, a practice central to Yukon Indigenous culture and bush travel.
• Wildlife Viewing — Observe moose, caribou, and migratory birds along the Pelly River valley, particularly during spring and fall seasons.

Food to try

• Dried Fish (Whitefish) — Traditionally smoked and dried whitefish from the Pelly River, a staple food prepared using ancestral Selkirk methods.
• Moose Stew — A hearty local dish featuring locally-hunted moose meat combined with root vegetables, representing traditional Yukon Indigenous cuisine.
• Bannock — Fried bread served with local jams, berries, or meat, a beloved comfort food found in community kitchens and gatherings.
• Caribou Jerky — Lean meat from local caribou hunts, preserved and dried using traditional smoking techniques passed down through generations.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Hunting and Harvesting Seasons — The community practices traditional hunting and fishing cycles; ask locals about current seasons before discussing or purchasing wild foods.
• Ask Permission Before Photography — Always seek consent from artists and community members before photographing their work, families, or cultural activities.
• Participate in Community Gatherings — If invited to potlatches, feasts, or seasonal celebrations, these are integral to Selkirk First Nation culture and offer authentic cultural exchange.
• Learn Basic Respect Protocol — Greet community members warmly and show genuine interest in their stories; the Selkirk First Nation values personal connection and authentic dialogue.