If you’re exploring the Yukon and want to add a splash of Alaskan charm to your trip, this Whitehorse to Skagway day trip is worth considering. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a full-day adventure that promises not just scenic beauty but a taste of history and local culture—all packed into around ten hours.
What really grabs my attention about this tour is how it combines stunning natural sights like Emerald Lake and White Pass with a visit to Skagway’s lively, historic streets. Plus, the chance to spot wildlife and learn about the region’s First Nations history makes it quite well-rounded. That said, it’s not for everyone; if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or crossing international borders, it’s worth considering. But if you’re after a comprehensive taste of this border region, this trip could be a great fit.
One thing to keep in mind is the price—at $271 per person, it’s not the cheapest day out. But considering it covers transportation, snacks, a guide, and multiple key stops, many find it to be good value for such a scenic and historic overview. If you’re after a laid-back yet engaging way to see the highlights of Yukon and Alaska on a single day, this tour is worth a look. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, history, and a dash of wildlife spotting.
Key Points
- Beautiful scenery: The tour features iconic sights like Emerald Lake and White Pass, perfect for photography lovers.
- Historic towns: Skagway’s vibrant streets tell stories of the Gold Rush era and are full of character.
- Wildlife encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for animals like bears, moose, and more—nature’s surprises are common.
- Comfortable transportation: A relaxed day traveling along scenic highways with stops at key points.
- All-in-one experience: Combines natural beauty, culture, and history in one well-structured day.
- Suitability: Best for travelers comfortable with a full-day trip and border crossings; less suitable for wheelchair users.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting the Day: Whitehorse Pickup
Your adventure begins early—around 8:30 AM—when a driver comes to pick you up from your Whitehorse hotel. From there, the journey kicks off, giving you a chance to settle in and get comfortable for the hours ahead. The group sizes typically aren’t specified, but reviews suggest it’s a shared tour environment, so expect some company.
First Stop: Emerald Lake
The first highlight is Emerald Lake, renowned for its vibrant, almost surreal colors. We loved the way the water’s hue is caused by sediment deposits—it’s not often you get such a vivid landscape just outside a town. The stop here is usually brief but enough for photos and to breathe in the crisp mountain air. Be sure to bring your camera—this is one of those postcard-worthy spots.
Next Up: Carcross and the Smallest Desert
After Emerald Lake, the journey continues to Carcross, a tiny but fascinating settlement. This is where the tour gets a bit quirky—the Carcross Desert is claimed to be the world’s smallest desert. While the size might raise eyebrows, the fine sand and stark landscape definitely make it feel desert-like. Here, you can walk around, snap some photos, and learn about the First Nations history of the area.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Drive Along South Klondike Highway
The real star of the drive is the White Pass, a mountain pass known for breathtaking views. As you travel along the highway, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of rugged mountains and lush forests. The driver/guide typically makes several stops—perfect moments to capture the scenery or just soak it in. We appreciated how the guide pointed out notable landmarks and wildlife sightings, such as bears, moose, and sometimes even grizzlies.
Arriving in Skagway: A Gold Rush Town
The final destination is Skagway, once a bustling hub during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, it’s a lively town with colorful buildings, shops, cafes, and historical sites. Walking around here, you’ll get a sense of the town’s past and present. Many reviews mentioned how friendly and vibrant Skagway feels, with travelers from all over exploring its streets and shops.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
Throughout the day, there’s a good chance you might spot local wildlife—black bears, moose, and other animals are common sightings. The guide often shares stories and facts about the region’s flora and fauna, which adds depth to the experience.
Return Journey: Back to Whitehorse
After a day full of sights, stories, and photos, you’ll head back around 5 or 6 PM. The drive offers a different perspective as you reflect on the day’s highlights, and many travelers find themselves exhausted but satisfied with the full immersion in nature and history.
Price and Value Consideration
At $271 per person, this tour isn’t exactly a bargain, but it offers a lot in terms of value—transport, snacks, a guide, and multiple stops at key sights. Some reviews mention that the snacks and beverages included make the day more comfortable, especially as you’re on the road for many hours.
If you’re someone who appreciates a good mix of scenery, culture, and wildlife, the cost is justified. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more leisurely pace without border crossings, you might want to explore other options or even DIY your trip if feasible.
What’s Not Included
One thing to keep in mind is that the White Pass and Yukon Railroad Train Ride isn’t included unless you’ve opted for that add-on. If you’re interested in that historic train ride, you’ll need to book separately, which could increase your overall expense.
Suitability and Practical Tips
This tour is generally suitable for most travelers who can handle a full day on a bus and are comfortable with some border crossing procedures. It’s not ideal if you have mobility issues, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Also, bring weather-appropriate clothing—mountain weather can be unpredictable—and your passport or ID, as crossing into Alaska is involved.
If you’re traveling with children, they might enjoy the wildlife sightings and colorful towns, but the long bus ride and border crossing might be tiring for younger kids. If they’re okay with that, it’s a memorable way to introduce them to the natural and historic beauty of this region.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For those keen to see the highlights of Yukon and Alaska in a single day, this tour offers a curated experience that balances scenic landscapes, history, and wildlife encounters. The stops at Emerald Lake and Carcross give you unique photo opportunities, while Skagway’s charm offers a glimpse into the gold rush era. The price might seem hefty, but considering the transportation, guide, and multiple stops, many find it worthwhile.
As a traveler, it’s a nice way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. If you enjoy being on the move, soaking in mountain vistas, and exploring small towns with a historical twist, this trip will serve you well.
From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip
FAQ
How long is the tour from Whitehorse to Skagway?
It lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, stops, and the return to Whitehorse.
What is included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, a guide, and snacks and beverages throughout the day.
Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, you’ll need your passport or ID card to cross the border between Yukon and Alaska.
Is the White Pass and Yukon Railroad ride included?
No, it’s not included unless you select it as an option at booking.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and hiking shoes if you plan on exploring outside.
Is this tour suitable for families?
It could be, but be aware of the long bus ride and border crossing—less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
What kind of wildlife might we see?
You might spot black bears, grizzlies, moose, and other wildlife along the route.
How scenic are the stops?
Very scenic—expect stunning views at Emerald Lake, White Pass, and along the highway.
What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the scenery and wildlife are generally best enjoyed in the warmer months, but always check availability beforehand.
In short, this tour is a solid choice if you’re after a comprehensive day exploring the best of Yukon and Alaska’s natural and historic sights. It’s particularly appealing if you love mountain scenery, small-town charm, and wildlife. Just remember to pack your patience, your camera, and that sense of adventure!
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