If you’re cruising into Skagway and looking to get a real taste of the Yukon without straying too far from port, this full-day tour could be just the ticket. It promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights—all packed into roughly 6.5 hours. From what travelers say, this trip consistently earns high praise, with glowing reviews about the guide’s knowledge and the stunning landscapes.
What we particularly love about this tour is how much it offers for the price—around $169 per person—with the convenience of port pickup and drop-off, plus a well-planned itinerary that hits the highlights. The chance to see wildlife, explore the unique Carcross Desert, and visit authentic sites like Caribou Crossing makes it feel like a well-rounded Yukon experience. Plus, the included lunch, featuring a BBQ chicken meal and vegetarian options, makes the day even easier.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair amount of driving—roughly 6.5 hours—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic bus rides and don’t mind a packed day. Also, remember to bring your passport, as border crossings are part of the adventure. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided peek into the Yukon’s natural beauty and history without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.
This tour appeals most to those craving a curated experience with knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a taste of Yukon’s wilderness. If you’re traveling with a group or seeking an engaging day away from the cruise ship, it’s worth considering.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenic Stops: Multiple photo-worthy spots including Tutshi Lake, Emerald Lake, and the Yukon border.
- Wildlife Potential: Good chances to spot animals and learn about the local fauna from your guide.
- Cultural Highlights: Visit Carcross, known for its historic buildings and Native culture.
- Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes a wildlife museum, sled dog camp, and the famous Carcross Desert.
- All-Inclusive Lunch: BBQ chicken with sides, plus vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- Expert Guides: Travelers rave about guides like Michael and Connor for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point and Transportation
Your day begins at the Skagway cruise terminal, where a representative from Frontier Excursions & Adventures will greet you with a sign. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus with a maximum group size of 24—small enough to keep things intimate, but large enough to share the experience with fellow travelers. The ease of pickup and drop-off makes it simple to fit this tour into your cruise schedule.
Scenic Drive along the Klondike Highway
The core of this trip is the drive along the Klondike Highway, often praised for its jaw-dropping views. As you leave Skagway, you’ll pass by Tutshi Lake—a massive, peaceful body of water perfect for snapping photos. Several stops here are made to soak in the scenery and take in the vastness of the landscape.
Next, you’ll reach Tagish Lake, where a quick photo stop marks the Yukon border. Many travelers highlight this as a memorable moment—standing at the border of Alaska and Canada, with the “Welcome to the Yukon” sign in the background. It’s a simple spot but a meaningful one, especially if you’re into crossing borders on your adventures.
Continuing along, the group stops at the larger-than-life Yukon sign at the BC/Yukon border, which makes a perfect photo opportunity. The views of Lime Mountain and Bove Island from Bove Island viewpoint are also appreciated for their natural beauty. The drive itself, filled with mountain vistas and potential wildlife sightings, is often highlighted as a highlight by travelers.
The Carcross Desert and Unique Landscapes
One of the more unusual stops is the Carcross Desert—not a true desert, but a striking area of sand dunes that resemble desert terrain. Travelers often find this a fascinating geological feature, and it’s a fun spot to stretch your legs and snap some unique photos.
Wildlife and Cultural Encounters
The tour’s highlight is a visit to Wild Adventure Yukon, where you’ll explore a wildlife museum, see a sled dog camp, and enjoy a hearty lunch. The wildlife museum is an opportunity to get up close with taxidermy displays and learn about the animals that inhabit this rugged region. The sled dog camp offers a glimpse into traditional transportation methods used during the Gold Rush era and beyond.
The included lunch is a thoughtful touch, with BBQ chicken, roasted potatoes, coleslaw, rolls, and homemade donuts, alongside tea or coffee. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, which many travelers appreciate, especially after a morning of sightseeing.
The Charming Village of Carcross
Next, you’ll explore Carcross, a tiny but charming village known for its historic buildings and Native cultural sites. Many visitors enjoy walking around, soaking in the ambiance, and learning about local traditions. It’s a quick stop, but it adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the day.
Lake Bennett and Emerald Lake
The tour also includes a scenic viewpoint at Lake Bennett, with a chance to take photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Finally, a stop at Emerald Lake offers one last stunning view—its vibrant color and pristine setting leaving a lasting impression.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides like Michael and Connor make the experience special. One describes the guide as having “a wealth of knowledge about the area, its history, and the animals,” making the long drive more engaging. Others highlight the friendly, personable guides who blend humor with facts, keeping the mood lively and informative.
Many comment on the beautiful scenery—from lakes to the desert dunes—and appreciate the frequent photo stops, which allow plenty of time to capture the breathtaking views. The included lunch is often praised for being delicious and satisfying, with many noting the vegetarian options were well-prepared.
Some reviews mention the potential for wildlife sightings, which adds a bit of unpredictability and excitement to the trip. While wildlife isn’t guaranteed, the chance to see animals in their natural habitat seems to be a common perk.
Price and Value
At around $169 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look into the Yukon’s landscape and culture. With included meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary, many see it as good value—especially considering the hassle-free logistics. Travelers have pointed out the trip’s good balance of scenic stops, cultural insights, and fun activities like the sled dog camp.
It’s worth noting that the tour is designed for most travelers, with age restrictions mainly focused on passport requirements for border crossing. The group size maxes out at 24, which keeps things manageable and personal.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This full-day Yukon trip is ideal for cruise passengers who want an engaging excursion that combines scenery, wildlife, and culture. If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours with knowledgeable guides and is comfortable spending several hours on a bus, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s also well-suited for those interested in photography, as the stops are designed for quick but picturesque photo sessions.
While the day is packed, it’s not overly strenuous. That said, if you’ve got mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth considering how much walking or standing will be involved at each stop. Families with teens or older children will likely enjoy the mix of scenery and storytelling.
FAQs
Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, a valid passport is required since the trip crosses into Canada and back. Make sure to bring your original passport—copies aren’t accepted.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally manageable for most travelers, children 15 or younger need to bring a passport or birth certificate, and those 16+ must have a valid passport. If parents aren’t traveling with their kids, a notarized letter of authorization is necessary.
What about dietary restrictions?
The included lunch offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—so you can enjoy a meal that suits your needs. Drivers will take orders at the start of the tour to accommodate special requests.
How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and lunch. The drive itself covers scenic areas, with frequent stops for photos and sightseeing.
Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included, so consider tipping guides and drivers if you’re pleased with their service.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Last-minute changes are not refundable.
Is the group size small or large?
The maximum number of travelers is 24, which balances social atmosphere with comfort.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re after a well-organized, scenic day exploring the Yukon’s natural beauty and cultural sites, this tour earns its high marks. It’s especially appealing if you value expert guides who share stories and insights that deepen your understanding of the region. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to give you a taste of everything—lakes, deserts, wildlife, and quaint villages—all within a manageable timeframe.
While it’s a full day, the pace feels just right, with enough breaks for photos and a satisfying lunch to keep you energized. The scenic drives alone are worth the price, and many reviews mention how the guides make the experience memorable through their friendliness and knowledge.
For those who love a bit of adventure mixed with cultural history and love snapping photos of stunning landscapes, this Yukon tour from Skagway is worth considering. It’s a great way to see the wilderness and learn about this rugged part of Canada without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor craving a deep dive into Yukon’s beauty, this tour provides a balanced, engaging experience. Just bring your camera, your passport, and an appetite for adventure.