Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour (From Skagway)

If you’re visiting Skagway and want to see more than just the town, this Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour offers a wonderful way to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of the nearby Yukon Territory. For around $153 per person, you’ll spend about five hours with a knowledgeable guide, cruising through mountain passes, rainforests, waterfalls, and alpine lakes, topped off with a picnic lunch and plenty of photo opportunities.

What we particularly love about this tour is its small-group setting, which makes for a more intimate and flexible experience. Plus, the chance to visit Carcross, the First Nations community, and see the Carcross Desert are memorable highlights. While it’s a fantastic way to get a quick taste of the Yukon, it’s worth noting that some travelers have experienced inconsistent communication and variable guide quality.

This tour is best suited for cruise-passengers with limited time in Skagway who crave scenic beauty and local culture without the hassle of planning a day on their own. If you’re traveling with kids or seeking a comfortable, guided overview of the region, it can be a good fit. However, those expecting extensive time at each stop or more off-the-beaten-path exploration might find it a bit rushed.

Key Points

Stunning Scenic Drive: Covers White Pass, Carcross, and parts of British Columbia with breathtaking mountain views.
Inclusion of a Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a simple, fresh sandwich and chips while taking in the scenery.
Photo Opportunities Galore: From the Welcome signs to waterfalls and glaciers, plenty of spots to capture memories.
Small Group Experience: Up to 12 travelers for a more personalized, comfortable tour.
Variable Guide Quality: Guide expertise and communication can vary, impacting the overall experience.
Ideal for Cruise Passengers: Designed for those with a limited window in Skagway, eager to see the highlights.

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A Deep Dive into the Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour

When we first heard about this tour, what caught our eye was how it promises to maximize your time in Skagway by venturing deep into the Yukon — with less than a day’s commitment. For travelers who don’t want to settle for a quick drive-by or only peek at the outskirts, it offers a compact yet comprehensive look at some of the region’s most iconic sights.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Will You Actually See?

Start in Skagway’s Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. You’ll begin your journey with a quick visit to the heart of Skagway, where gold rush history and bustling storefronts hint at the town’s lively past. This area, also home to the historic Chilkoot Trail, sets an authentic tone for your trip, giving you context about the region’s significance.

Climb up White Pass, stopping at overlooks to admire the Hanging Denver Glacier. We loved the way the guide pointed out the glacier and the lush old-growth forest surrounding Summit Lake. The train tracks in the foreground make for a spectacular photo backdrop, and the road winds through a landscape that’s equal parts rugged and beautiful.

Cross into British Columbia, passing by waterfalls, alpine lakes, and glaciers en route to Tagish Lake. Here, the scenery really shows off the mountains, with towering peaks and wildflower-dotted tundra. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide took us to many fun spots along the way.”

Stop at Bridal Veil Falls for a quick photo. The cascading waters are a natural spectacle, and the short pause makes for a memorable shot before heading to Summit Lake again. The landscape here switches from alpine wilderness to a more serene, mirror-like lake scene.

Visit Carcross, the First Nations town. This tiny community offers a glimpse of local culture and history. The tour includes stopping at Lake Bennett, where many gold rushers once re-supplied before heading into the Yukon. One traveler shared, “Laura, our guide, was informative and made this trip so enjoyable,” reflecting the value of knowledgeable guides in making the experience memorable.

Explore the Carcross Desert, which sounds impossible in an alpine setting but is a fascinating natural oddity, about a mile across. It’s an excellent spot for photos and to marvel at how such a desert exists amid lush forests.

Pass through Fraser, with a quick check-in at Canadian customs, then visit the White Pass & Yukon Railroad station in front of Fraser Lake. For those interested in rail history or just enjoying picturesque lakes, it’s a delightful stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

A light picnic-style lunch with a sandwich, chips, and bottled water is part of the package — a thoughtful touch that keeps you fueled without breaking the bank. The guide provides commentary, sharing insights about the region’s geology, history, and natural features.

Note: The tour does not include car seats for infants or toddlers, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not offered. Most travelers find meeting at the designated starting point straightforward, especially if they’re arriving on a cruise. Confirming pickup details beforehand is recommended, as some reviewers experienced miscommunications.

The Road: Comfort and Group Size

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers a cozy, less rushed atmosphere. The vehicle is a van, designed for comfort during the scenic drive. One reviewer noted, “The small size was very comfortable,” which makes a difference when traveling in a vehicle for several hours.

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Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Reviews highlight how guides can make or break the trip. Several travelers raved about guides like Sidney, Laura, and Joe for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to go the extra mile. Conversely, some experienced issues like no-shows or poor communication, which remind us that guide consistency can vary.

The Value for Money

At $152.81 per person, this tour is a modest investment considering the scenic beauty, cultural insights, and included lunch. For cruise passengers or day-trippers seeking a rundown, it offers a good balance of sights and stories. However, it’s not a deep dive — more of a sampler platter — so those wanting to explore at a more relaxed pace might prefer other options.

Weather and Packing Tips

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress in layers. Temperatures can differ from Skagway, especially at higher elevations or near glaciers. Bringing a camera, sunglasses, and rain gear is wise, given the frequent photo stops and unpredictable weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers looking to squeeze the most out of a limited time in Skagway without sacrificing scenic beauty or local flavor. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate guided commentary, want to see iconic landscapes, and enjoy small-group comfort.

If you’re traveling with children, it can work, but be aware of the lack of car seats and the length of driving. Those seeking more off-the-beaten-path exploration or prolonged stops at each location might find the itinerary a little quick, but for a snapshot of the Yukon, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour offers a beautiful, informative glimpse of the region’s mountain vistas, glaciers, and cultural sites, all in just half a day. The small-group format and inclusion of a picnic lunch bring added comfort and value, especially for travelers eager to avoid the crowds.

While guides can vary in experience, many travelers appreciate the local insights and scenic stops. The price is reasonable for the quality of scenery and stories you’ll encounter. Just remember to confirm details in advance and dress for variable weather.

If your goal is a quick, scenic overview of the Yukon with helpful guidance and gorgeous views, this tour definitely deserves your consideration — especially if you’re on a cruise and want a memorable, hassle-free day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers typically meet at the designated location in Skagway.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, allowing time for scenic stops, photo opportunities, and the picnic lunch.

Are children allowed? Yes, most travelers can participate, but note that car seats are not provided for infants or toddlers.

What should I bring? Dress in layers for variable weather, bring a camera for photo stops, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around scenic spots.

How many people are in each group? The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for cruise passengers? Yes, it is designed for cruise passengers with a limited layover in Skagway, providing a quick yet comprehensive Yukon experience.

Are there any additional costs? No, admission to stops such as Carcross or Lake Bennett are free. The tour price covers transport, guide, and lunch.

What is the guide’s role? Guides provide commentary on the region’s natural features and history, making the drive more engaging and educational.

Can I expect wildlife sightings? While not guaranteed, some reviews mention seeing bears or other wildlife during the drive, adding to the adventure.

Final Words

The Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour balances scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and convenience — perfect for travelers short on time but eager for an authentic taste of the Yukon. With experienced guides, stunning vistas, and thoughtful stops, it offers solid value for many visitors. Just be prepared for a busy day on the road, and you’ll come away with lasting memories of this wild frontier.