Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Ross River. Ross River Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Ross River, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ross River is roughly 60 minutes from XRR via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Ross River is the local transport, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at XRR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ross River itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Ross River:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ross River, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Ross River
If you head into Ross River, here are two things worth checking out:
Ross River Suspension Bridge is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Pelly River Scenic Walk is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside XRR — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Ross River Airport Waiting Area
- Airstrip Viewing & Yukon Scenery
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ross River: Ross River General Store & Deli and Ross River General Store – Takeaway. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Grab-and-Go Snacks or Traveler’s Own Provisions Area. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at XRR should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at XRR
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, XRR has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Ross River exploring the streets or relaxing at XRR, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.