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The Yukon (YT) is the westernmost and smallest of Canada's three federal territories. It was named after the Yukon River and the word Yukon means "Great River" in Gwich’in. As of 2003, the name Yukon, rather than "Yukon Territory" was confirmed and updated by the federal government. The Yukon is officially bilingual (English and French). The Yukon Government also recognizes First Nations languages.
The territory borders the US state of Alaska to the west, the Northwest Territories to the east and British Columbia to the south. Its northern coast is on the Beaufort Sea. The capital, Whitehorse, is also the largest city, with about two-thirds of the population of the Yukon and the second largest city is Dawson City. Yukon's Mount Logan, in Kluane National Park and Reserve, is the highest mountain in Canada and the second-highest in North America.
Yukon's major industry has been mining including lead, zinc, silver, gold, asbestos and copper. Manufacturing, including furniture, clothing, and handicrafts, follows in importance, along with hydroelectricity. The traditional industries of trapping and fishing have declined.
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