7 Hour Private Emerald Lake Van Excursion

Discover the 7 Hour Private Emerald Lake Van Excursion: A Balanced Look at an Unforgettable Journey

This 7-hour private van tour from Skagway offers a flexible, personalized way to explore some of North America’s most spectacular scenery. For around $1,265 per group (up to 14 people), you’ll travel comfortably in a high-roof van with a knowledgeable local guide, visiting highlights like Emerald Lake, Pitchfork Falls, and the Yukon border. It’s a wonderfully tailored experience that balances scenic vistas with engaging stories, perfect for those who want to avoid cookie-cutter bus tours.

What we love most about this trip is how customizable it is — whether you’re into hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking up the views from the van, your guide will adapt to your interests. And the fact that it’s private means no rushing or waiting around for strangers. The scenery is breathtaking, from glaciers and waterfalls to the stunning “world’s smallest desert,” and there’s plenty of room for memorable photos.

A potential consideration? The price might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in the private, flexible nature of the tour and the stunning sights, it offers excellent value — especially for families, small groups, or travelers wanting a personalized experience. Ideal for those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, storytelling, and a touch of adventure, this tour suits anyone eager to explore the wild beauty of Alaska and the Yukon on their own terms.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your interests and pace.
• Stunning scenery including glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, and mountain vistas.
• Knowledgeable guides with a friendly, personal touch, often praised in reviews.
• Optional stops like the Yukon Suspension Bridge and dog mushing camp add extra adventure.
• Perfect for all ages — from families to solo travelers seeking an authentic experience.
• Includes scenic drives, photo ops, and opportunities for wildlife watching — ideal for nature lovers.

In-Depth Look at the 7 Hour Private Emerald Lake Van Excursion

This tour is a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground in a single day, focusing on the rich tapestry of landscapes and stories that make the Skagway area so special. It’s designed for those who want a personalized, relaxed journey rather than a crowded bus ride. When you book, you’ll get a private 14-passenger van, meaning your group has the freedom to explore at your preferred pace, with your guide serving as both storyteller and local insider.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Skagway: The Gateway with a Gold Rush Past

Your adventure begins right in Skagway, a charming town that once boomed during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. The guide will bring the town’s story to life, sharing tales of prospectors, booming saloons, and the rugged characters who shaped its history. In just 15 minutes, expect a lively introduction to this colorful place, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Reviewers rave about guides like Chris and Samuel, who are described as patient, knowledgeable, and engaging. One noted that Chris made the experience “really special for kids,” highlighting the tour’s family-friendly appeal.

Pitchfork Falls and Denver Glacier: Jaw-Dropping Mountain Views

Next, the van winds along scenic roads past Pitchfork Falls, where you’ll pause for some jaw-dropping views of Denver Glacier and other nearby glaciers. The sight of these massive ice formations, often snow-capped even in summer, is enough to make anyone stop in awe. The 20-minute stop includes photo opportunities of cascading waterfalls and roaring rivers.

Guests mention that the scenery here is “breathtaking,” and they appreciated how the guides tailored the stops to maximize photo moments and comfort.

Alaska: Bridal Veil Waterfall and Historic Moore Bridge

Your journey continues into Alaska, with a stop at a delicate waterfall that resembles a bridal veil — a perfect spot for crisp mountain air and stunning photos. Just across the border, the Moore Bridge, the only cantilevered cable-stayed bridge in Alaska, offers a spectacular crossing and a great place for photos.

Many reviews highlight how the guides make these stops feel natural and unhurried, allowing you to soak in the scenery and take as much time as you like.

Yukon Territory: Glacial Waters, Tormented Valley, and Tutshi Lake

Crossing into the Yukon, you’ll visit International Falls, where glacial waters from the mountains flow into the Yukon River — an area filled with rugged beauty and stories of ancient ice. The Tormented Valley, with its eerie, windswept landscape, offers a surreal experience.

The tour then takes you to Tutshi Lake, a wide, pristine body of water that’s perfect for wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats perched high on cliffs — a quick, but rewarding chance to see Yukon’s wildlife.

One traveler noted the sweeping views at Tutshi Lake as “beautiful and peaceful,” while others enjoyed the chance to spot mountain goats in the wild.

Yukon Border and Carcross: The Canadian Border and Small-Town Charm

Next, you’ll stop at the Venus Silver Mine at the border, where you can snap a photo marking your entry into Canada’s Yukon Territory. Then, a longer break in Carcross, a quaint community rich with First Nation heritage, offers local snacks and a chance to stretch your legs.

Guests appreciate the relaxed pace here, with some calling it a favorite part of the day. It’s a great place to learn about local culture and grab a snack.

Carcross Desert and Emerald Lake: The Unexpected and the Breathtaking

The Carcross Desert, often called the world’s smallest desert, is a fun surprise. Its rolling sand dunes, formed during the last glacial period, create a landscape unlike anything most travelers expect in Canada.

Finally, the highlight for many is Emerald Lake — famous for its vivid green hue caused by sunlight reflecting off white marls. The 20-minute stop allows for photos and a moment to simply soak in this surreal landscape.

Multiple reviews highlight Emerald Lake as a “must-see,” with its almost unreal color making it one of the most photographed spots on the tour.

Optional Yukon Suspension Bridge and Dog Mushing

For those looking for extra adventure, the Yukon Suspension Bridge offers a thrilling walk 65 feet above rushing rapids, with a $22 admission fee. Alternatively, you can visit the Tagish Lake Kennels to meet sled dogs and learn about the Iditarod — a favorite among dog lovers.

Guests who opt for the suspension bridge describe it as “scenic and exhilarating,” while dog mushing fans find the experience at Tagish Lake Kennels engaging and authentic.

Why Is This Tour a Great Value?

At first glance, $1,265 for a private tour might seem high. But considering the private, customizable nature and the stunning scenery, many travelers find it worthwhile. The price includes private transportation, the guide’s expertise, and the flexibility to focus on what interests you most. Optional stops like the Yukon Suspension Bridge or the dog mushing camp add extra adventure, though they come with additional fees.

Guests have praised the excellent communication from the guides, praising their deep knowledge and friendly manner. One reviewer emphasized how the tour “felt like being with friends,” making the entire experience feel more personal and memorable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for families, small groups, or couples who want to see the Yukon and Alaska’s highlights without rushing or sharing with strangers. Those who value local insights, scenic beauty, and tailored experiences will find this tour a highlight of their trip. If you love nature, wildlife, and stunning lakes, this is a wonderful choice. But it’s also suited for those who enjoy storytelling and a relaxed pace — because your guide will take the time to make each stop meaningful.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for scenic stops and photo opportunities.

• What is included in the price?
  Private transportation in a high-roof van, a knowledgeable guide, and flexibility to customize stops. Some optional activities like the Yukon Suspension Bridge and dog mushing have extra fees.

• Can I choose the stops?
  Yes, the tour is private and tailored to your interests, so your guide will adjust the itinerary based on what you want to see.

• Are the stops suitable for all ages?
  Yes, reviews mention that the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with guides accommodating different mobility needs.

• Is there free time at each stop?
  Most stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, with some longer options like Carcross and the optional stops allowing for more exploration.

• What’s the best time of year for this tour?
  The tour operates from May to October, with ideal weather typically in late summer and early fall.

• Are there any food options?
  Not included, but the stops in Carcross offer local treats, and you can bring snacks along.

• Is the tour suitable for wildlife lovers?
  Absolutely — the tour offers wildlife spotting opportunities, especially around Tutshi Lake and the cliffs above.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How do I book?
  You can book directly through the provider’s website or via Viator, with tours often booked 44 days in advance.

Wrapping It Up

This 7-hour private Emerald Lake tour is a wonderful way to see the best of the Yukon and British Columbia landscapes without the rush or crowd of larger tours. Its flexibility, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guides make it a compelling choice for travelers craving a personal, immersive experience. Whether you’re into glaciers, waterfalls, wildlife, or just beautiful lakes, this trip offers a good mix of all.

It’s especially suited for those who value authentic storytelling and the freedom to explore at their own pace. Families, small groups, or couples will find this tour delivers both value and memorable moments. If you’re looking for a tailored adventure that highlights the wild, rugged beauty of the northern Rockies and Yukon Territory, this could be your highlight.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this private tour means investing in a day filled with stunning vistas, engaging stories, and personal touches. It’s about making your journey through Alaska and the Yukon more memorable, more relaxed, and more tailored to your interests. The reviews clearly show that guides like Chris and Samuel make all the difference, turning a scenic drive into a storybook adventure.

While the cost is higher than a standard group tour, the value of personalized attention, flexible stops, and stunning scenery makes it worthwhile for many. If you want a day that blends natural beauty with authentic storytelling and a relaxed pace, this tour is worth considering.

Happy travels, and may your journey into the wild North be as breathtaking as the landscapes you’ll encounter!