Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour

If you’re visiting Skagway and craving a mix of breathtaking scenery, interesting history, and a touch of adventure, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews consistently highlight its scenic beauty and knowledgeable guides, making it a popular choice for many travelers.

What I love about this tour are three things: the chance to see multiple waterfalls in a short time, the opportunity to stand at the Welcome to Alaska Sign, and the insightful commentary about local history. It’s a balanced blend of nature and culture that suits those who want a meaningful yet relaxed experience. One consideration might be the limited mobility for some stops, so it’s worth planning accordingly if you have back problems or require wheelchair access. This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy stunning landscapes, easy-paced excursions, and learning about the area’s past.

Good To Know

Scenic Waterfalls: Visit Bridal Veil Falls, Pitch Fork Falls, and Reid Falls, all displaying the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska.
Historic Insights: Learn about the Gold Rush Cemetery and its significance in local history.
Border Crossing: Cross into Canada with a stop at the Welcome to Alaska Sign, offering a unique photo opportunity.
Comfortable Transportation: A guided bus tour makes exploring easy, with scenic viewpoints and stops included.
Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with lively commentary.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour

The Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at the Southeast Tour desk, conveniently located inside Richter’s Souvenir and Popcorn store, about a 10-minute walk from the cruise ships. This is especially helpful for travelers with limited time or those wanting a straightforward start. The meeting point is easy to find, and the check-in process is generally smooth.

What the Tour Includes

This 3-hour guided bus tour offers a mix of scenic stops and informational commentary. The price of $83 per person reflects good value considering the number of sights and the personalized attention from guides. The tour includes stops at multiple waterfalls, a walk through the Gold Rush Cemetery (with an optional 10-minute rainforest hike), and the crossing into Canada for photo ops.

The Waterfalls and Photo Opportunities

• Reid Falls: The first stop features Reid Falls, where you can opt for a short rainforest hike in the historic Gold Rush Cemetery. This adds a nice touch of adventure and historical context, as one reviewer appreciated the guide’s willingness to take pictures and share insights. Expect a peaceful stroll through lush surroundings to reach the falls.

• Bridal Veil Falls: Perhaps the most iconic stop, Bridal Veil Falls is where you’ll get close enough to feel the mist on your face. Guests consistently praise the chance to touch the water and get an up-close view, making it ideal for memorable photos.

• Pitch Fork Falls: Known as the second-largest waterfall in Southeast Alaska, Pitch Fork Falls offers a striking view that’s more dramatic and powerful. The guide’s narrative here helps you appreciate its size and beauty, with many reviewers noting how each falls seemed more impressive than the last.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Crossing into Canada and the Sign

After exploring the waterfalls, the tour stops at the Welcome to Alaska Sign for a quick photo session that captures the thrill of crossing into Canada. This is a highlight for many, offering a tangible sense of adventure and international border crossing, especially if you’re collecting travel souvenirs or photos.

The Captain William Moore Bridge and Overlooks

On the way back, you’ll pass the Captain William Moore Bridge, a recently opened pedestrian walkway from 2020. It’s an interesting modern feature that adds a contemporary touch to the sightseeing route. The tour concludes at the Skagway City Overlook, where panoramic views of the town and coastline cap off the experience.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

The guides, such as Clay and others, are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that Clay’s commentary was “informative and very interesting,” with the added bonus of him willingly taking spectacular photos of couples. Such personal touches make the tour more memorable.

The stops are thoughtfully timed to allow enough time to enjoy each waterfall and take photos without feeling rushed. The bus itself is comfortable, and the slow pace means you can relax and fully absorb the scenery.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $83, this tour offers a lot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. You gain access to multiple waterfalls, border crossing experiences, and historical insights, all within a few hours. Considering the cost of private tours or the expense of booking separate excursions, this package balances affordability with quality.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Skagway’s natural beauty and landmark crossings. It suits those interested in easy outdoor exploration and learning about local history without strenuous activity or long hikes. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility issues, or wheelchair users, given the nature of the stops and walking involved.

Final Thoughts

The Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour offers a relaxed yet engaging way to see some of Southeast Alaska’s most beautiful waterfalls and learn about the area’s past. With friendly guides, scenic views, and smooth transportation, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a combination of nature and culture in a short time frame.

While it may not include meals or extensive hikes, the focus on accessible scenic stops and photo opportunities makes it an excellent value. The ability to cross into Canada and visit the Welcome Sign adds a unique international dimension that most travelers find memorable.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply someone wanting to experience the best of Skagway’s waterfalls without too much effort, this tour delivers a genuine, enjoyable experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of cruise excursions.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at the Southeast Tour desk inside Richter’s Souvenir and Popcorn store, about 10 minutes walk from the cruise ships.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the guided waterfall tour, stops at scenic waterfalls, informative commentary, an optional hike in the Gold Rush Cemetery, and photo opportunities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if travel plans shift.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a comfortable guided bus takes you between all the sights, making it easy to relax and focus on the scenery.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, passports are required for crossing the border into Canada and returning to Alaska.

Is this tour suitable for young children or people with mobility issues?
This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking or standing.

In summary, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour offers a fine balance of natural beauty, historical insights, and fun border crossings—all within a compact, well-organized trip. It’s a wonderful way to explore Skagway’s waterfalls and landscape, especially if you value guided commentary and easy transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here: