Skagway stands out as a cruise port for its dramatic mountain scenery, rich Gold Rush history, and outdoor adventures. Unlike many ports that offer generic tours, Skagway shines because of its unique proximity to stunning wilderness and accessible historic sites. Whether you want a full-day Yukon expedition, a thrilling zipline ride, or a walk through old-town streets, Skagway’s variety of tours ensures every traveler finds something memorable. We especially love the full-day Yukon tour for its breathtaking mountain vistas and wildlife sightings, plus the chance to learn about the Gold Rush from a knowledgeable guide. For those seeking an active adventure, the Chilkoot Trail hike and float offers a taste of history mixed with nature. Whether you’re a history lover, wildlife enthusiast, or adrenaline junkie, Skagway’s tours deliver.
1. Skagway Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of the Yukon
This full-day exploration of the Yukon is a standout, traveling along the Klondike Highway with a minibus that takes you past panoramic mountain views and wildlife-rich areas. The tour visits the Caribou Crossing Trading Post to explore its wildlife museum—perfect for nature lovers—and stops at a dogsled camp where you can learn about traditional Alaskan mushing. You’ll see scenic spots like Tutshi Lake, Tagish Lake, and Lime Mountain, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
What makes this tour truly special is its storytelling and local insight. The guide shares detailed history of the Gold Rush and natural facts, making the 6.5-hour trip feel like a journey through both time and landscape. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the incredible scenery, often calling it the best way to see the Yukon from Skagway. The $169.08 price includes lunch, wildlife museum admission, and a dogsled experience, offering excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive Yukon trip without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: If you’re after a full day immersed in Yukon scenery, wildlife, and history, this tour offers depth and comfort in one package.
2. Skagway Shore Excursion: Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge
A perfect choice for travelers short on time but eager to see iconic Yukon sights, this half-day tour covers the White Pass summit, the Yukon border, and a suspension bridge crossing. The 4-hour trip by minibus includes stops at Banff-like waterfalls, the Welcome to the Yukon sign, and Summit Lake, with plenty of photo ops.
This tour’s highlight is crossing the Yukon Suspension Bridge—an exhilarating experience with panoramic views of the Tutshi River below. Guides are praised for their humor and storytelling, making the scenic drive engaging. At only $118.47 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Canada’s wilderness, with wildlife sightings often possible along the route.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a quick yet scenic Yukon adventure, especially if you want to experience the suspension bridge and border photo stops.
3. Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour
For active travelers, the Chilkoot Trail hike and float is a top pick. After a scenic van ride, you’ll trek a moderate 2-mile portion of the historic trail through lush rainforests, with your guide sharing insights on local flora and fauna. The highlight is a relaxing float down Taiya River on a rubber raft, retracing the footsteps of 1890s gold prospectors.
This 4-hour tour combines history, nature, and adventure, with reviews emphasizing its family-friendly nature and well-organized logistics. The guide’s commentary makes it more than just a walk, turning it into a lively educational experience. At $134.62, it’s a good value for those who want a half-day of physical activity and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: Perfect for active explorers who want a taste of hiking and rafting with a historical twist, suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Yukon Suspension Bridge and Summit Tour
This 3-hour guided tour focuses on White Pass’s most famous sights—the Yukon Suspension Bridge and the summit area. It includes comfortable transportation from Skagway, with stops at scenic viewpoints and interpretive signs explaining local history and geology. The suspension bridge offers stunning views of the turbulent Tutshi River.
The guided aspect means you learn about the Gold Rush, First Nations, and natural history, making it educational as well as scenic. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and professional guides. For $130.00, you get a convenient way to see the area without the hassle of renting a car, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a concise, educational experience with guaranteed comfort and great photo stops.
5. Ocean Raft Alaska
If being on the water appeals more than a land-based tour, Ocean Raft Alaska delivers a 2-hour 15-minute RIB adventure. You’ll skim along the coastline, passing waterfalls, coves, and the North American fjord, with the chance to spot bald eagles, sea lions, and mountain goats.
The boat ride is fast and exhilarating, with the captain and naturalist explaining the local wildlife and ecosystems. Reviewers love the intimacy of the small group and the personal attention from the crew. At $189.99, it’s a slightly pricier but unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s coastal wilderness.
Bottom line: For those who want a high-adrenaline, wildlife-focused boat tour with top-notch guides, this is a superb choice.
6. Sled Dog Adventure in Skagway
This 3.5-hour tour immerses you in the world of Alaskan huskies. First, explore downtown Skagway, then ride a Unimog up a mountain to visit a dog sled camp in Tongass National Park. There, you’ll meet the dogs, learn about sledding, and enjoy a ride with a team of eager huskies.
It’s a great mix of education, activity, and adorable puppies, with reviews praising the guides’ enthusiasm and the opportunity to interact with the dogs. For $207.09, it offers excellent value, especially for animal lovers or families seeking a memorable experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in dogs and outdoor activity, with a genuine chance to connect with working sled dogs.
7. Wild Adventure Yukon Tour into Canada including City and Summit
This 6.5-hour tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Yukon and BC’s highlights. Your guide will take care of the itinerary, stopping at Carcross Desert, Emerald Lake, and scenic mountain views. You’ll also visit the welcome sign at the border and keep an eye out for wildlife.
It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want to see more without worrying about logistics. The tour’s reviews emphasize its well-paced stops and engaging narration. For $169, it’s a great way to explore the wilds of Yukon with the convenience of guided transportation.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers eager for a full-day, hassle-free trip into Canada, focusing on scenery and wildlife.
8. Skagway City & Summit Tour
A 2.5-hour bus tour that covers Skagway’s main sights, including the White Pass summit, Pitchfork Falls, and the Klondike Gold Rush Visitor Center. This tour is perfect for visitors with limited time who want a good overview of the area’s history and scenery.
The tour is praised for its friendly guides and scenic stops, with many reviewers noting the excellent photo opportunities and informative narration. At just $72.04, it offers great value for a quick introduction to Skagway’s highlights.
Bottom line: Best for travelers short on time but wanting a comprehensive, comfortable overview of Skagway’s top spots.
9. Skagway Shore Excursion: Scenic River Float Tour
Enjoy a peaceful float down the Taiya River on this 2-hour 15-minute river tour. Traveling through Dyea Valley, you’ll have chances to see bald eagles and possibly bears, depending on the season. The journey includes a scenic coastal drive and stops at Nahku Bay for photos.
Reviewers appreciate the calm pace and guide’s wildlife spotting skills. The tour is family-friendly and costs $96.93 per person. It offers a soft adventure experience with a focus on scenery and wildlife.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or those seeking gentle nature encounters without strenuous activity.
10. Summit Experience & Yukon Suspension Bridge Tour
This 3 hour 45-minute tour combines the Yukon Suspension Bridge with a scenic drive to the White Pass summit. It features multiple photo stops, interpretive signs, and a walk across the suspension bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Many reviews highlight the expertise of the guides and the stunning scenery. It’s a great option for travelers who want a quick but rundown of this spectacular area, priced at $120.88.
Bottom line: Ideal for those with limited time who want scenic, educational, and photo-rich experiences.
11. Summer Sled Dog Remote Yukon Camp & Summit Tour
This 4-hour 15-minute adventure features a visit to a working dog camp, where you can meet huskies and puppies, plus a scenic drive to Pitchfork Falls and Emerald Lake. Guides share insights on sled dog training, and you’ll get to play with puppies—sure to delight animal lovers.
The reviews note the friendly guides and the chance to interact with real working dogs in the wild landscape. At $189.00, it offers a mix of scenery, education, and canine fun.
Bottom line: Great for dog fans and those wanting a blend of wildlife, scenery, and hands-on interaction.
12. Adventure Parks & Zipline Tour
For adrenaline seekers, this 3.5-hour ziplining adventure takes you through the Tongass National Forest. You’ll learn to zip and rappel, then soar along multiple ziplines with views of the White Pass and surrounding wilderness. The guide ensures safety but keeps the fun high.
Many reviewers mention how the scenery and guides make this memorable. The tour costs $203.74 and is suitable for ages six and up, making it family-friendly.
Bottom line: If ziplining over treetops sounds like your idea of fun, this active outdoor tour is worth the splurge.
13. Bridge, Puppies, and Summit Triple Combo in Skagway
This 5 to 5.15-hour combo offers a thorough exploration of Skagway’s natural and cultural highlights. It includes the Yukon Suspension Bridge, a visit to the Klondike Gold Rush Visitor Center, and a visit to a puppy camp with huskies and puppies.
The reviews highlight the flexibility and the adorable puppies, though some mention it taking extra time to get back to town. For $139.00, it’s a value-packed option for families or those wanting multiple experiences in one day.
Bottom line: Well-rounded and flexible, perfect for those eager to combine scenery, history, and puppy cuddles.
14. Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition
This 4-hour zipline takes you through the Tongass National Forest, offering multiple ziplines and suspension bridges. Starting from Dyea, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive and a ziplining orientation before soaring over waterfalls and forest canopy.
Reviewers love the excitement and the stunning views, with many noting it’s suitable for families with kids aged six and up. At $261.59, it’s a premium experience for thrill-seekers wanting an active adventure.
Bottom line: If zipping through the forest with views of waterfalls appeals, this tour provides a memorable high-energy outing.
15. Skagway Shore Excursion: White Pass Summit and Skagway City Tour
This 2.5 to 3-hour tour explores Skagway’s main sites along with the White Pass Summit. It includes stops at Bridal Veil Falls, the Gold Rush Cemetery, and scenic overlooks like Tormented Valley. The narration provides insight into the Gold Rush era and local geography.
Many reviews praise the friendly guides and the quality of photo stops, with the tour priced at $72.16 for a quick but complete overview.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quick, informative tour that hits all the highlights.
16. Skagway Scooter Gold Rush Adventure
Finally, for a fun, active way to explore, the Scooter Gold Rush Adventure offers an 18-mile joyride through Skagway’s historic streets and scenic viewpoints. You’ll learn about Alaska’s past while zipping along on a scooter, with plenty of stops for photos and wildlife watching.
Reviewers love how easy the scooters are to ride and the personal touch of guides like Morgan and Andrew. At $179.00, it offers a lively, interactive experience ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers who want to see Skagway at a quick pace while enjoying the thrill of scooter riding.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Skagway
Selecting from Skagway’s many tour options depends on your priorities: Do you want to cover the Yukon in a day? Check out the full-day Yukon tour. Interested in wildlife? The Ocean Raft Alaska offers a high-speed boat experience with chances to see eagles and sea lions. For active types, the Chilkoot Trail hike and float combines hiking and river floating, perfect for outdoors lovers.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the city & summit tour, offering a well-rounded overview at a lower price. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Yukon scenery, the half-day border and suspension bridge fits nicely into a half-day schedule.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like dog sledding or ziplining, which tend to fill up quickly during cruise season. Consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate—Skagway’s tours are as varied as the landscape itself.
Skagway offers a broad spectrum of options from scenic drives and wildlife encounters to active hikes and adrenaline-pumping ziplining. Whether you’re after a relaxed sightseeing day, a rugged adventure, or family-friendly fun, you’ll find a tour that suits your style. Our top picks include the full-day Yukon trip for a wide-ranging experience, the scenic suspension bridge and summit for stunning vistas, and the sled dog adventure for an authentic Alaskan experience. Be sure to book early and match your choice to your interests and energy level — Alaska waits for no one, and Skagway’s incredible scenery and activities won’t last long in your memories.