DAWSON CITY – Dawson isn’t closing its doors to visitors, but both Mayor Wayne Potoroka and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Chief Roberta Joseph have defined the terms under which visitors are welcome, given the COVID-19 case surge.

Yukoners are on edge, their joint statement begins, “and while we can envision the day when we are able to gather without restrictions or concern we are not there yet.

“If you are planning to visit the Klondike, we ask that you commit to following the guidance issued by the Chief Medical Officer regarding responsible travel through rural communities.

“We also ask that you keep it attuned to any public health advisories and notices, practice the safe-six-plus-one while you’re here, and keep to your social bubble.”

It goes further.

“Right now, we are only open to respectful, responsible visitors. There are many ways to enjoy Dawson even with public health measures in place, but if your plans include gathering for a non-physically-distanced party with people outside your social bubble, please postpone your plans until the pandemic is over.”

Their statement concludes on an optimistic note.

“The Yukon has done an incredible job in preventing the spread of COVID-19, and we are uplifted by the care Yukoners have shown for others over the past year.”