Step Into the Yukon and Sled Dog Tour

Step Into the Yukon and Sled Dog Tour: An Authentic Arctic Adventure

If you’re visiting Skagway and craving an experience that goes beyond the typical cruise ship excursions, the Step Into the Yukon and Sled Dog Tour offers a genuinely engaging glimpse into the world of sled dogs and Alaskan wilderness. This roughly 4.5-hour journey is designed for travelers seeking a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and hands-on activities with professional mushers.

What makes this tour stand out are three key aspects: the chance to visit the mushers’ personal summer training camp, the inclusion of a dog cart ride, and the opportunity to learn from passionate, knowledgeable guides like Michelle Phillips and Ed Hopkins—both veteran racers in the Iditarod and Yukon Quest. Plus, with small group sizes and personal touches, it feels intimate rather than touristy.

A potential consideration is the passport requirement—since the tour crosses into Canada, you’ll need a valid passport book or card—something easy to overlook but important for smooth travel. This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and authentic local stories. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see the real Alaskan dog mushing scene, not just a scripted show.

Good To Know

• Authentic training camp visit gives insight into summer routines of sled dogs and mushers
• Small group sizes maximize interaction and personalized attention
• Scenic stops like Fraser Lake and Tutshi Sleddog Tours provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities
• Expert guides like Michelle Phillips and Ed Hopkins share their racing experience and passion for sled dogs
• Passport required for crossing into Canada, so bring proper identification
• Limited snacks and water available for purchase, so plan accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Meet and Prepare: Starting in Downtown Skagway

The tour kicks off at the Locomotive 52 Display on 101 Broadway, a convenient central spot that makes meeting easy. Your guide will confirm everyone has their passports, as the journey crosses into Canada—an important reminder, since only passport books or cards are accepted. This initial check sets a smooth tone for the adventure ahead.

Exploring Skagway’s Gold Rush Heritage

The first stop takes you into Skagway’s historic park, home to 33 original buildings untouched since the Gold Rush era. Here, your guide offers stories about how the town developed, weaving in local history with the town’s current charm. It’s a good primer, especially for history buffs, and gives context to Skagway’s vibrant past.

Fraser Lake: Stunning Glacial Views

Next, you’ll visit Fraser Lake, about halfway through the journey. This 15-minute stop offers views of a dwarfed tree forest and a glacially carved landscape. The scenery here is often described as otherworldly, with travelers noting the striking landscape. While admission is free, the highlight is really the chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air and take photos of the expansive, rugged scenery.

Sled Dog Training Camp: The Heart of the Tour

The core of the experience is at Tutshi Sleddog Tours, the personal training camp of Michelle Phillips, a master musher who competes in the Iditarod. Here, you get 45 minutes of immersive experience, which is notably longer than typical tours. You’ll learn the secrets of summer training routines—how mushers prepare their dogs for winter races, the care involved, and what kind of training is necessary.

From reviews, it’s clear that the camp is authentic and well-maintained, with people appreciating the opportunity to interact closely with the dogs. Some guests mention the puppy snuggles, which are sometimes included when in season, making it a delightful bonus for animal lovers.

The Dog Cart Ride and Education

One of the tour’s highlights is the training dog cart ride, providing a hands-on experience of what it’s like to mush a sled. Accompanied by a musher’s educational talk, this part is designed to be fun and informative. Guests often comment on how knowledgeable and passionate the guides are, making complex topics like dog care and training accessible and engaging.

International Border and Scenic Views

The tour also includes a quick stop at the Welcome to Alaska Sign, offering a perfect photo opportunity with the border in the background. It’s a brief 15-minute stop but adds a sense of adventure and international flair to the day.

Final Touches: Scenic Drive Back

The return journey is equally scenic, with options to stop for photos or simply enjoy the ride in a well-maintained air-conditioned vehicle. The small groups (up to 25 travelers) ensure a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, allowing for questions and sharing stories along the way.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers highlight the personal attention and knowledge of guides like Marisa, who they describe as friendly, funny, and organized. One traveler noted, “The dog sledding was great; we enjoyed the interaction with all the dogs,” emphasizing the close encounters with the animals that make this tour memorable.

Guests also loved the scenic stops, with comments like “The ride up to the camp was filled with stops to take in mountain views,” and appreciated the opportunity to learn from experts who are clearly passionate about their craft.

The puppy snuggles are a recurring favorite, with visitors describing the puppies as “dang cute” and “so much fun,” adding a heartfelt, playful element to the experience.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus in the Alaskan summer or fall sun. The tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures intimacy and gives everyone time to ask questions or get closer to the dogs.

Since snacks and bottled water aren’t included, travelers might want to bring a small snack or drink along, especially if they’re prone to hunger between stops. However, there are options to purchase snacks during the tour.

Price and Value

At $207 per person, the tour might seem pricey but considering the longer-than-average camp visit, the personalized experience, and the unique opportunity to see actual sled dog training in summer, many find it offers excellent value. Unlike larger, more generic excursions, this tour’s focus on personal interaction and authentic learning makes it stand out.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Step Into the Yukon and Sled Dog Tour is a perfect pick for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re passionate about animal encounters, outdoor adventure, or learning about sled dog racing, this experience delivers on all fronts.

It’s especially suited for those interested in authentic, behind-the-scenes looks at summer training routines, offering a genuine connection to the dogs and mushers. The scenic stops and knowledgeable guides make it a well-rounded, engaging outing that balances fun with education.

While the passport requirement might be a minor inconvenience, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to see Skagway’s historic past combined with the thrill of sled dog culture. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour provides a memorable, hands-on Alaska adventure.

FAQ

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, passports are required since the tour crosses into Canada. Make sure to bring your passport book or card to avoid any issues.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who love animals and outdoor scenery tend to enjoy it most. Check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring passports, a small snack or water if desired, and dress according to the weather, as most activities are outdoors.

Are snacks or drinks included?
No, snacks and bottled water are not included but are available for purchase during the trip.

Can I expect to interact with the dogs?
Absolutely. Guests often get close to the dogs, and during the camp visit, you may enjoy puppy snuggles and hands-on activities like the cart ride.

This tour offers a genuine, hands-on insight into sled dog training, combined with breathtaking scenery and expert storytelling. For travelers eager to experience Alaskan dog mushing beyond the usual, it’s a well-rounded, memorable choice.