Yukon Husky Puppy Play Time & Summit Tour

Discover the magic of Skagway and the Yukon on the Yukon Husky Puppy Play Time & Summit Tour. For around $119 per person, you’ll spend about four and a half hours immersed in breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and adorable husky puppies. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Alaska’s rugged beauty and its sled dog culture.

Two things we love about this experience: first, the chance to interact directly with future sled racers at Tutshi Sled Dog Camp—playing with puppies and learning how mushers train their dogs. Second, the scenic journey itself, with multiple stops that showcase waterfalls, mountain vistas, and historic landmarks along the White Pass and Klondike Highway.

A small caveat—the tour does not include a sled ride or detailed dog training demonstration, so if you’re hoping for a full sledding experience, you might need to upgrade or look elsewhere.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic drives, historical stories, and especially those eager to get up close with lively puppies. Families, animal lovers, or anyone curious about Alaskan outdoor life will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Stops: Enjoy views of Pitchfork Falls, mountains, waterfalls, and historic landmarks.
• Historical Context: Hear stories about Skagway’s Gold Rush and its importance in North American history.
• Dog Camp Visit: Meet playful husky puppies and learn about training from professional mushers.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Noah and Adam receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Value for Money: The tour covers all fees, includes transport, and offers ample puppy time—making it a worthwhile experience.
• Limited Sled Activity: Focused mainly on sightseeing and puppy interaction, with sledding available as an upgrade.

An In-Depth Look at the Yukon Husky Puppy Play Time & Summit Tour

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Skagway or a seasoned Alaska traveler, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and fun. Priced at $119, it’s a well-priced way to see some of the best sights around Skagway while also indulging your love of dogs and outdoor adventure.

Transport and Duration
The tour lasts about four and a half hours, including pickup from the cruise dock, scenic stops, and the visit to the sled dog camp. The transportation is in a van or a coach, which is comfortable enough, and the group size caps at around 40 travelers, keeping things intimate enough for personal interaction but large enough to be lively.

What You Get for the Price
All fees and taxes are included, along with a knowledgeable guide who provides commentary throughout the journey. You get plenty of time at each stop, especially at Tutshi Sled Dog Camp, where the highlight is meeting and playing with husky puppies. The camp also has a gift shop and restrooms—a practical touch many travelers appreciate.

Itinerary Breakdown

Welcome to Alaska Sign at White Pass
Your journey begins with a quick photo stop at the “Welcome to Alaska” sign at the summit of the White Pass and Klondike Highway. This spot offers a perfect photo op with stunning mountain surroundings and a view into the vast wilderness. This stop is just around ten minutes, so don’t expect to linger too long, but it’s a memorable way to start your scenic tour.

Pitchfork Falls
Next, you’ll stop at Pitchfork Falls, a dramatic 2,000-foot waterfall that cascades into the Skagway River. This view, accessible from the highway, is especially good because it’s right under a historic railroad bridge—an iconic symbol of the White Pass and Yukon Route. Reviewers often mention how this stop offers “stunning mountain views” and a chance to appreciate the rugged landscape of the area.

Historical Landmarks and Scenic Drive
As you continue along the Klondike Highway, your guides will share stories of the Gold Rush era—the rush to the Klondike in 1896 that brought thousands of prospectors north. Stops along Broadway and the historic town of Skagway give glimpses into the past, with commentary that makes history come alive. This part of the tour is appreciated for its educational value and the scenic variety, from waterfalls to mountain vistas.

Visit to Tutshi Sled Dog Camp
The big draw comes at the Tutshi Sled Dog Camp in the Canadian tundra, located in Yukon territory. Here, you’re encouraged to get close to the puppies and seasoned sled dogs. Multiple reviews praise the opportunity to play with and pet the pups—some as young as five weeks old—making this a highlight for animal lovers. One review states, “Meeting Michelle Phillips and her award-winning dogs was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” emphasizing the high caliber of musher expertise and the special chance to interact with future Iditarod contenders.

Note about the Sled Experience
It’s important to recognize that the tour does not include the actual sled ride or a demonstration of dog training—it’s mainly puppy playtime plus scenic stops. If you’re eager for a sledding adventure, ask about upgrades, or consider booking separate activities.

Guides and Personal Touches

Reviewers consistently mention guides like Noah, Adam, and Merica who make the journey engaging with their good humor, local knowledge, and storytelling skills. For example, one states, “Noah was an excellent guide, giving us detailed info and stopping at picture-perfect spots.” These guides often go the extra mile for photos, sharing stories, and explaining the significance of what you see. Their enthusiasm adds a lot of value, making the experience more than just a sightseeing drive.

The Value of the Experience

At $119, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and content—covering transportation, scenic stops, and puppy interactions. Many reviews highlight how this is an “inexpensive way to see the greater Skagway area” and get a taste of Alaskan wilderness and history. It’s especially appealing for families, animal enthusiasts, and those who want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

A common concern voiced in reviews is the absence of a sled ride—some travelers expected more active dog sledding. Also, the drive into Canada might feel lengthy for those only interested in puppies; it’s about two hours each way, with some noting the road can be bumpy or involve a landslide detour. The tour description clarifies that the focus is on scenery, history, and puppy playtime, but those looking for a more immersive sledding experience should plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for travelers who adore animals, want to see breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy learning about the history of the Klondike Gold Rush. Families with kids often find the puppy interaction a highlight. If you’re a photographer, the multiple scenic stops and guide’s help in capturing perfect shots make this a winner.

However, if your main goal is sled riding or a more in-depth dog training demonstration, this tour may not fully satisfy those expectations. It’s more about the journey, the scenery, and the puppies than the actual sled racing.

The Sum Up

The Yukon Husky Puppy Play Time & Summit Tour offers a well-rounded, fun, and affordable way to experience the best of Skagway’s scenery, history, and sled dog culture. The highlight for most is the puppy interaction, which makes it a hit among animal lovers and families. The scenic stops and knowledgeable guides further enrich the experience, making it more than just a bus tour.

While it lacks an actual sled ride, the combination of panoramic views, engaging stories, and adorable puppies provides a memorable Alaska adventure. The tour’s value lies in its balance—affordable, informative, and relaxed—perfect for those who want a taste of the wilderness without a strenuous activity.

If you’re seeking a friendly, scenic, and puppy-filled half-day, this tour fits the bill. Just be clear about your expectations—if your heart is set on sledding, plan accordingly. For everyone else, this experience is a delightful way to connect with Alaska’s wild side and its famous sled dogs.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at the cruise ship docks, making it convenient for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including scenic stops and puppy time.

Does this tour include a sled ride?
No, the tour does not include a sled ride or training demonstration. You can inquire about upgrades if interested.

What is the main focus of the tour?
The emphasis is on sightseeing, hearing stories at historic landmarks, and interacting with husky puppies at the sled dog camp.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention kids loving the puppies and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photo opportunities, and dress appropriately for outdoor stops—layers are recommended as temperatures vary.

How many people participate in the tour?
The maximum group size is around 40 travelers, creating a friendly atmosphere.

Are all fees included in the price?
Yes, all fees and taxes are covered, with no hidden charges.

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

In the end, this tour makes for a charming, scenic, and engaging half-day activity that combines Alaska’s rugged beauty with the irresistible charm of husky puppies. It’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxed, informative, and puppy-filled adventure in Skagway.