From Skagway: White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour

Exploring Skagway’s White Pass Summit by Bus: An Honest Take

If you’re planning a trip to Skagway and considering the White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour, you’re in for a treat — or at least a very solid adventure. Based on what travelers are saying, this tour has a lot going for it: incredible views, engaging guides, and a convenient way to cover a lot of ground in just a few hours. And at around $60, it offers a pretty good bang for your buck, especially compared to the train ride, which many reviewers feel is pricier and not necessarily better.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines scenic stops with storytelling. The guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making what could be just a pretty drive into a lively and educational experience. Plus, the variety of stops — waterfalls, viewpoints, and historic sites — keeps things fresh and photogenic. The fact that it’s only three hours long makes it accessible for most travelers, fitting easily into a day’s itinerary.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Some visitors note that weather can be a wildcard — fog or rain can obscure the views, which is a bummer if you’re hoping for picture-perfect mountain scenery. And because it’s a bus tour, it might not satisfy those who prefer a more active, adventurous experience. Still, if your priority is seeing the highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this could be a good choice. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a relaxed, informative overview of the area’s natural beauty and history.

This tour seems best for travelers who love scenic drives, stunning viewpoints, and learning a bit about Gold Rush history, all while enjoying a comfortable ride. Families, couples, or groups who want to capture memorable photos and enjoy a well-organized trip will likely find it quite appealing.

Key Points

• Comfortable and scenic transportation: A small, 24-passenger bus with large windows makes for great views.
• Multiple photo stops: From waterfalls to mountain vistas, there are plenty of opportunities to snap memorable pictures.
• Informative guides: Many reviews highlight fun, knowledgeable guides who keep the trip lively and engaging.
• Variety of stops: The tour includes everything from the Gold Rush Cemetery to waterfalls, viewpoints, and wildlife sightings.
• Weather matters: Fog or rain can obscure views, so timing or weather conditions can impact your experience.
• Good value for money: At $60, many feel this tour offers a lot of scenic and historic value, especially compared to the train.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements

The tour kicks off right from Skagway’s docks, which is super convenient. Your guide or a representative will be waiting with a “Klondike Tours” sign about 30 minutes before departure. It’s straightforward to find, given Skagway’s small size, and check-in is at their office on 3rd Ave. and State St. if you’re doing an afternoon departure. Remember your passport — crossing into Canada is part of the trip, and without it, you won’t be able to go the full route.

The Vehicle and Group Size

Traveling in a cozy 24-passenger mini-bus, you’ll get a lot of natural light and good visibility, which many reviews say makes a difference. The smaller size keeps the group intimate, allowing for more personalized commentary from guides like Chris, Tyler, and Denise, who seem to make quite an impression with their stories and humor. The bus is described as comfortable and warm, ideal for those chilly mountain climates.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts about three hours, with a good mix of stops and driving. It’s a carefully curated route that hits all the scenic and historic highlights:

Gold Rush Cemetery: The journey begins with a visit to the historic cemetery, where your guide shares stories about the gold seekers who arrived during the rush. Some reviews mention that guides like CJ and Denise are especially engaging, offering colorful descriptions that bring history alive. It’s a quiet, reflective spot, perfect for photos and pondering the grit of the gold rush era.

Reid Falls: Just a short hike from the cemetery, Reid Falls is praised for its beauty. It’s a 300-foot waterfall named after a local hero, and it’s a favorite for photos and a quick nature break. If weather permits, you might even get to hike into the rainforest to see the falls up close, adding a little adventure to your day.

Waterfalls Galore: The tour cleverly includes multiple waterfall stops, such as Bridal Veil Falls, Pitch Fork Falls, and others. Many guests find these stops to be highlights, especially when they can get close enough to touch the water — Bridal Veil, in particular, invites you to put your hands in the water. Guides often give detailed descriptions, making each waterfall not just a pretty sight but part of the area’s natural story.

White Pass Summit: The main event is reaching the White Pass at 3,922 feet. The ascent offers breathtaking mountain vistas, glaciers, and the chance to stand at the border of Alaska and Canada. Many reviewers note that the views can be obscured by fog or clouds, but when clear, it’s truly spectacular. There’s a designated stop at the Alaska sign — perfect for that iconic photo. Be prepared for colder weather at the summit, and don’t forget your layers.

Skagway Overlook & Wildlife: The lookout point offers panoramic views of Skagway, the inlet, Dewey Peaks, and the fjord, giving a comprehensive scene of the town’s setting. Wildlife sightings are possible, with reports of mountain goats, black bears, marmots, and ptarmigans along the way. While wildlife isn’t guaranteed, many travelers appreciate the chance to see Alaska’s fauna in their natural habitat.

Optional Highlights: Some of the scenic stops, like the waterfall hikes, are optional but highly recommended if you enjoy short walks and nature. The tour includes stops at the Welcome to Alaska sign for memorable photos and the Captain William Moore Bridge, adding a touch of local infrastructure history.

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The Experience and Guide Quality

Many reviews sing the praises of guides like Chris, Tyler, and Denise, describing their personalities as friendly, funny, and knowledgeable. They’re praised for their storytelling skills, making the history engaging without overwhelming. Their willingness to participate in hikes or answer questions makes the experience feel personalized and fun.

The Cost and Value

At $60 per person, this tour offers a lot — scenic views, waterfalls, wildlife, and historical tidbits — in just three hours. It’s often compared favorably against the more expensive train ride, with many guests saying they prefer the bus for its flexibility, stops, and more relaxed pace. Reviewers commonly mention how much they enjoyed the stops and how the tour exceeded expectations for the price point.

Weather and Timing Considerations

While the scenery in Skagway and White Pass is stunning, weather can be unpredictable. Fog, rain, or clouds can hide distant views — some reviews mention that going later in the morning might help, as the fog tends to burn off. If you’re visiting in a shoulder season, be prepared for possible weather disruptions.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, photography, and a bit of history, this tour suits you well. It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights without multiple excursions or long hikes. Families comfortable with bus rides, couples, and groups who enjoy sharing photos and stories will find it particularly enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour is a solid option for anyone wanting a broad, scenic overview of the area without breaking the bank. Its highlights — waterfalls, mountain views, historic stops — are well-chosen, and the quality of guides makes a big difference. The small bus size, easy logistics, and flexible stops help make it a comfortable, engaging experience.

That said, don’t expect perfect weather or pristine wilderness adventures. If you’re after a high-energy trek or a more immersive nature experience, you might wish for more. But if you value a relaxed, informative, and beautifully photographed journey, this tour hits many of those notes.

In the end, it’s a great choice for those who want to combine comfort, scenery, and stories into a memorable three-hour window. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good value and are excited to see impressive waterfalls and mountain vistas from a cozy vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops and scenery are family-friendly. Just keep in mind it involves some short walks and a bus ride — no strenuous hikes.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, your passport is necessary because the tour crosses into Canada at the White Pass Summit. Without it, you may not be able to go the full route.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about three hours, which makes it easy to fit into your day without feeling rushed.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
Yes, wildlife such as mountain goats, black bears, marmots, and ptarmigans are possible sights along the pass, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A small, 24-passenger mini-bus with large windows, providing good visibility and a comfortable ride.

Are the stops optional?
Most stops, like waterfalls and viewpoints, are part of the tour, but some, like hikes at Reid Falls, are optional.

Is the tour suitable if I’m afraid of heights?
Probably not, as some of the viewpoints and the drive involve heights and mountain roads. Use your judgment based on your comfort level.

Can I take photos during the stops?
Absolutely. Most stops are designed for photos, especially at viewpoints, waterfalls, and the Alaska sign.

What’s the weather usually like?
Weather can vary, but fog or rain may obscure views. It’s wise to check the forecast and dress in layers.

To sum it up, this Skagway White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour offers a fantastic way to see the best of the mountains, waterfalls, and history in a short amount of time. Perfect for those who want a relaxing yet scenic ride with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging commentary, it’s a dependable choice that many travelers recommend. Just keep your expectations in check regarding weather, and you’re likely to come away happy with this memorable Alaskan experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: