Exploring the Full Day Emerald Lake Tour with or without Huskies: An Honest Review
If you’re looking for an all-encompassing way to experience the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Yukon and Alaska, this Full Day Emerald Lake Tour from Skagway might catch your eye. It’s designed to offer a personalized, immersive experience led by a guide with over 30 years of local expertise. Whether you’re into spotting mountain goats, taking incredible photos, or cuddling puppies, this tour promises a bit of everything.
What I really like about this trip is how the guide’s deep familiarity with the South Klondike Highway makes each stop more meaningful—from secret wildlife spots to photography tips that help you capture the scenery perfectly. Plus, the option to include a husky experience adds a fun, interactive element that’s especially memorable for animal lovers. That said, the relatively high price might be a consideration, especially since some activities like the suspension bridge cost extra.
This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, personalized day exploring Alaska’s wilderness with an expert. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging adventure that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and local stories, this could be a great pick. Keep in mind, it’s a private, customizable experience, so it’s ideal if you prefer to travel with just your group rather than a large tour bus.
Key Points
- Expert Guide: Over 30 years of local knowledge means tailored insights and better wildlife spotting.
- Wildlife Success: Almost guaranteed sightings of mountain goats and other animals using high-quality spotting scopes.
- Flexible Itinerary: Stops include scenic spots, cultural sites, and optional activities like husky encounters.
- Photography Focus: The guide offers professional photo tips to help you capture memories.
- Cost-Value Balance: Priced at $980 per group for up to 7 people, offering a private, personalized experience.
- Weather Dependence: Some parts of the tour rely on good weather, especially short hikes and photography.
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The Full Itinerary Breakdown
Starting Point: Skagway Downtown
The tour kicks off in the heart of Skagway, a town famous for its Gold Rush history. Walking through the historic streets gives a sense of the area’s past, with plenty of well-preserved buildings and exhibits. It sets a relaxed, informative tone for the day and is a perfect way to get oriented before heading into the wilderness.
Over the White Pass: Stunning Highway Views
From Skagway, you’ll ascend over the White Pass on the South Klondike Highway, which is one of Alaska’s most spectacular routes. Our guide’s nickname for this road—”my Office”—says a lot about their familiarity and comfort with every twist and turn. Expect breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities to stop and marvel at the scenery.
Yukon Suspension Bridge
A highlight for many is the Yukon Suspension Bridge, about 25 miles north of Skagway. It’s an especially photogenic spot where you can get panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. While the bridge itself is free to visit, there’s a CA$11 fee per person if you want to cross. The site also offers amenities like a cafeteria, gift shops, and the only running water restrooms along the highway — a small but appreciated convenience.
Carcross: A Tlingit and Tagish Native Village
Next stop is Carcross, a charming native village with deep roots going back thousands of years. Set between lakes and mountains, it offers a glimpse into indigenous culture and history. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving just enough time to stroll, take photos, or learn about the area’s rich heritage.
The Surprising Carcross Desert
Yes, you read that right — the Carcross Desert might sound like an oxymoron, but it’s actually a 50,000-year-old sand dune formation from a glacial lake’s former shoreline. It’s a quick stop, but the sight of sand dunes in the Yukon is definitely memorable and a bit of a curiosity.
Emerald Lake: The Tour’s Highlight
Located just 5 miles north of Carcross, Emerald Lake is the tour’s turnaround point. The lake’s colors are truly striking—deep greens and blues reflecting the sun and sky, thanks to its shallow depth. It’s a perfect spot for a quick walk, photos, or just soaking in the views before heading back. The scenery here is so stunning that it’s no wonder many reviews highlight it as a favorite.
Wild Adventure Yukon: More than Just Sled Dogs
Finally, the tour visits Wild Adventure Yukon, formerly known as Caribou Crossings. Here, you get to meet real sled dogs and their mushers. Guests can cuddle puppies, visit a petting zoo, and explore two museums—making it a fun, interactive end to the day. Reviewers love this stop, with one saying, “We also spotted a bear, mountain goats, and an eagle family nesting,” which shows how lucky wildlife sightings can be on this tour.
What’s Included and What Costs Extra?
The essentials — transport, a professional guide, bottled water, and binoculars — are part of the package, making it a hassle-free experience. The guide’s knowledge, especially their professional photography tips, really elevate this day beyond a simple sightseeing trip.
However, note that the Yukon Suspension Bridge costs an extra CA$11 per person, and the Wild Adventure Yukon husky camp does not include a fee if you want to cuddle puppies or visit the petting zoo. These extras can enhance your experience but do add to the overall cost.
How about the price?
At $980 for your entire group, it’s on the higher end, but considering it’s a private, customizable tour with a highly experienced guide, many find it worth the investment. The personalized attention means you get to see and learn about the places where larger tours might just pass through.
What Do Travelers Say?
Reviews consistently praise the guide, Thomas, for his knowledge, humor, and storytelling. One reviewer mentions, “Tom was so amazing, super knowledgeable, kind, helpful, and hilarious!” Several highlight how much they learned and how the guide’s stories made the sights come alive.
Wildlife sightings are another recurring theme. “We spotted a bear, mountain goats, and an eagle family nesting,” said one reviewer, echoing the almost guaranteed success of seeing wildlife with their expert spotting scope. Multiple reviews emphasize how the guide’s familiarity with the landscape and wildlife made the trip special.
Photographers in the group appreciated the pro tips for capturing the scenery. The stops at Emerald Lake and the suspension bridge are described as both beautiful and photographically rewarding.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re the type of traveler who loves personalized experiences, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives, this trip hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid large bus crowds and prefer a more intimate, flexible itinerary. The private nature of the tour makes it a good choice for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored adventure.
However, be aware of the costs and weather considerations. If you’re hoping for a quick, budget-friendly overview, this might feel a bit pricey — but for those seeking quality, expert storytelling, and memorable wildlife sightings, it’s a real contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy outdoor adventures and wildlife are likely to find it engaging. The stops at the petting zoo and puppy cuddling are especially appealing for younger travelers.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return. This includes all stops, some of which are around 45 minutes, plus travel time.
What’s the maximum group size?
It’s a private tour for up to 7 people, making it ideal for small groups wanting a more personalized experience.
Are meals or snacks included?
No, but bottled water, binoculars, and pro photo assistance are provided. The Yukon Suspension Bridge stop has a cafeteria, should you want to buy refreshments.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Is weather a concern?
Yes. Weather permitting, you’ll get the best experience, especially for short hikes and photography. The guide’s local knowledge helps adapt if conditions change.
Full Day Emerald Lake Tour with or without Huskies
“Spent an enjoyable day with Thomas getting the backstage tour of the beautiful scenery around and outside of Skagway. We all learned a lot and sha…”
Final Thoughts
This Full Day Emerald Lake Tour from Skagway offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights, led by a highly experienced guide who genuinely loves sharing his knowledge. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase the best of the Yukon and Alaska, with plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife sightings, and learning about local history.
While the price might raise a few eyebrows, the personalized nature of the experience and the guide’s expertise justify it for many travelers seeking a deeper, more authentic adventure. If you’re after a flexible, intimate tour that blends scenic stops with wildlife discovery—plus the chance to cuddle puppies—this trip has a lot to offer.
It’s a strong choice for those who value quality over quantity, and who want to make the most of their time in this stunning part of the world. Just remember, weather can influence some activities, so come prepared for unpredictable conditions. This tour stands out as a memorable way to experience the wild beauty and stories of the Yukon and Alaska.