Skagway: Yukon Discovery Tour

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Discover the scenic White Pass and Yukon Territory on this 6-hour tour from Skagway, featuring stunning views, wildlife spotting, and puppy cuddles.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction

If you’re visiting Skagway and craving a tour that combines breathtaking scenery with authentic local charm, the Yukon Discovery Tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, it offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Yukon’s rugged beauty, wildlife, and unique landscapes.

What we really like about this experience are three standout features: the chance to see Emerald Lake, the thrill of visiting Carcross Desert, and the adorable interaction with puppies at the dog mushing camp. It’s a fantastic mix of natural wonder, fun, and cultural insight.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is a six-hour commitment, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Also, since wildlife spotting isn’t guaranteed, it pays to keep expectations flexible. If you’re keen on discovering remote landscapes, love animals, and enjoy guided drives, this trip is likely to appeal.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenic Drive: Traveling through the White Pass into the Yukon offers incredible mountain views.
• Unique Destinations: Visit the world’s smallest desert and emerald-colored lake, both perfect for photos.
• Wildlife & Nature: Keep an eye out for local animals, including bears, moose, and mountain goats.
• Interactive Experience: Hands-on fun at the puppy petting farm and the chance to mingle with adorable sled dogs.
• Cultural & Natural Insights: Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about the area.
• Value for Money: For $188, you get a full day of sightseeing, a hearty lunch, and memorable experiences.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Drive Through the White Pass and Into the Yukon

The adventure begins with a scenic drive through the White Pass — a route famous for its stunning mountain vistas. The guide, often a personable local with plenty of stories, gives context about the area’s history and geography. The winding roads and towering peaks are jaw-dropping, making this stretch a highlight in itself.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Bridal Veil and Pitchfork Falls

Next, you’ll stop at Bridal Veil Falls and Pitchfork Falls. These waterfalls are dramatic and worth the photo opportunities. The guide tends to share interesting details about their formation and local legends, adding a layer of storytelling to the natural beauty. Expect a relaxed walk and plenty of chances to capture the cascading water against the mountains.

Tormented Valley and Tutshi Lake

The tour then ventures to the mountain summit where the Tormented Valley unfolds—a landscape shaped by glaciers and volcanic activity. Afterwards, a walk along Tutshi Lake offers serene views and an excellent spot for photos. The peaceful waters and surrounding forest make it a calm, contemplative stop.

Carcross Desert and Emerald Lake

One of the most distinctive spots is the Carcross Desert, often called the smallest desert in the world. We loved how the guide explained its formation and the unusual sand dunes set against lush greenery. It’s a surprisingly surreal landscape and a perfect place for a quick walk.

Just a short drive away is Emerald Lake, known for its vivid, jewel-toned water. It’s a favorite photo stop, showcasing nature’s artistry. Expect to see the vibrant lake framed by forested mountains, with plenty of space for selfies and quiet reflection.

Lunch at the Dog Mushing Camp

The meal is served at a dog mushing camp, where the highlight is the puppy interaction. You’ll get to pet and play with adorable sled dog puppies—an experience that many reviews highlight as a major favorite. The lunch itself is described as delicious, hearty, and filling, providing the energy needed for the afternoon.

Wildlife Viewing and the Alaska Sign

The tour wraps up with a visit to the “Welcome to Alaska” sign, where you can snap a memorable photo. While sightings of bears, moose, and mountain goats are possible, they’re not guaranteed—so patience is key. The guide’s knowledge about local wildlife adds context to the possibility.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Expect a comfortable coach for the full six-hour journey, guided by a friendly, informative English-speaking guide. The tour operates with a small group atmosphere, enabling more personalized attention and easier photo stops.

Price and Value

Priced at $188 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive mix of landscapes, wildlife, and interactive experiences. Considering the inclusion of a lunch, puppy petting, and museum entry, it provides good value for those wanting a full Yukon adventure without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Duration and Timing

Usually scheduled for mornings, the six-hour duration is ideal for fitting into a day of cruise excursions or hotel stays. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be walking and spending time outdoors.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the lunch, visit to the dog mushing camp, wildlife museum entry, and the puppy interaction. Personal expenses and the actual dog mushing activity are not included, so if you want to experience sledding firsthand, you’ll need to book that separately.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer, Michael from Germany, praised the guide, saying, “Clay, our experienced guide and driver, is of course the main reason for our satisfaction. He shared details about the area and made it so clear that even my English skills were enough to understand.” This highlights the importance of a knowledgeable and personable guide in making the experience special.

Another reviewer appreciated having plenty of space at photo stops and the chance to interact with the puppies in a relaxed setting. They found the scenery to be breathtaking, especially at Emerald Lake and the waterfalls, emphasizing the visual highlights of the trip.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Yukon Discovery Tour suits travelers who love nature, photography, and animals, and those who want a taste of both the scenic landscape and local culture. It’s particularly suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers. However, if you’re sensitive to long drives or have animal allergies, this might not be the best fit.

The cost reflects the inclusion of a hearty lunch, guided commentary, and special animal interactions, making it a worthwhile spend for those wanting a comprehensive Yukon experience.

The Sum Up

The Skagway Yukon Discovery Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that combines stunning mountain scenery, fascinating landscapes, and interactive animal encounters. From the dramatic waterfalls to the tiny dunes of Carcross Desert, each stop reveals a new facet of this rugged region, making it perfect for travelers eager to see iconic spots without the hassle of self-driving.

With a friendly guide, flexible itinerary, and memorable photo opportunities, it provides good value for those wanting to explore the Yukon’s natural beauty. The chance to pet puppies adds a unique, heartwarming touch that many will cherish long after the trip ends.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, wildlife, and engaging local experiences. It’s an easy, well-organized way to see some of the most captivating sights in the Yukon while enjoying a relaxed pace and personal touches along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys animals, scenic views, and outdoor activities. The puppy petting and relaxed stops make it family-friendly, though active little ones should be supervised around wildlife and natural surroundings.

Do I need my passport for this tour?
Absolutely. The tour crosses into Canada, so a valid passport is required for re-entry to the U.S.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, as you’ll be walking and spending time outdoors. Don’t forget your passport and camera for photos.

Can wildlife be seen during the tour?
While wildlife spotting is possible, it is not guaranteed. The guide may share interesting facts about local animals, and some sightings might happen along the roadside or at specific stops.

How long is the drive?
The entire tour lasts about six hours, with most of that time spent traveling, stopping for scenic views, and exploring different sites.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes lunch, entry to the wildlife museum, access to the petting farm, and puppy interaction. The actual dog mushing activity and personal expenses are not covered.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

This Yukon Discovery Tour balances captivating scenery with engaging animal experiences, making it a solid choice for those eager to see the best of the Yukon in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here: