Ep 8. Yukon Gold Rush Trail

In Bizarre Foods season 18 episode 8, host Andrew Zimmern takes us on a journey through the rugged terrain of the Yukon Gold Rush Trail, a historic pathway that stretches from coast to coast in the Canadian wilderness. Along the way, we get a taste of the region's unique culinary offerings, as Zimmern encounters some of the area's most fascinating characters and explores the bounty of the land.

Starting in Dawson City, the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, Zimmern takes in the sights and sounds of this historic town, which has preserved much of its 19th-century charm. He meets up with local chef Miche Genest, who introduces him to some of the traditional foods of the region, including bison ribs and smoked salmon. Zimmern also learns about the town's famous sourdough starter, which has been passed down from generation to generation since the gold rush days.

As Zimmern continues along the trail, he encounters a wide range of edible treasures, including spruce tips, which are harvested in the spring and used in everything from cocktails to pickles. He also samples birch syrup, a sweet and fragrant alternative to maple syrup that is made from the sap of the birch tree. Zimmern even tries his hand at ice fishing, braving the freezing temperatures to catch some fresh Arctic char.

Throughout his journey, Zimmern meets up with a variety of colorful characters, including a family of trappers who make their living off the land by trapping fur-bearing animals like beavers and muskrats. He also visits a remote off-the-grid cabin, where a couple lives entirely off the land, growing their own vegetables and hunting for their own meat.

Along the way, Zimmern also delves into the history of the region, learning about the indigenous cultures that have thrived in the Yukon for centuries. He meets with members of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, who share their traditional foods and customs with him, including a fish soup made with whitefish, wild herbs, and berries.

As the journey comes to a close, Zimmern reflects on the rich cultural heritage and natural bounty of the Yukon Gold Rush Trail, and the important role they play in shaping the region's unique culinary traditions. From the rugged wilderness to the bustling towns, this episode of Bizarre Foods takes us on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure through one of the most beautiful and remote regions of the world.