Skagway Shore Excursion: Yukon Discovery Tour

Imagine stepping onto a bus in the charming town of Skagway and heading into the wilds of Canada’s Yukon Territory—a land of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and wildlife sightings. For about $185 per person, this 6-hour adventure offers a chance to explore some of the most breathtaking scenery the North has to offer, with knowledgeable guides, plenty of stops for photos, and a chance to meet a team of sled dogs. From crossing the historic White Pass to visiting Emerald Lake and the Carcross Desert, this tour is designed to show off both natural beauty and authentic Yukon experiences.

What we love most? First, the personalized small-group feel—many reviews mention groups of just 9 to 12 people, which makes it easy to ask questions and really soak in the sights. Second, the inclusion of lunch and a sled dog camp visit means you get the full experience without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

One thing to consider is that, as with any outdoor adventure in remote areas, weather can vary greatly. That means you’ll want to pack in layers and be prepared for rain, wind, or sunshine—sometimes all in one day.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and the charm of small-group outings, especially if you’re eager to see the Yukon’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It suits those with moderate physical fitness, given some walking and the excitement of a sled ride if you upgrade.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances personalization and comfort.
• Includes lunch, with vegetarian options available, adding convenience.
• Expert guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Scenic stops at waterfalls, lakes, and mountain overlooks.
• Wildlife sightings like bears, moose, and caribou are possible.
• Weather conditions can impact certain activities; dress in layers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transport

Your adventure begins at 216 Broadway, Skagway, with a 10:30 am departure. The buses accommodate up to 32 travelers, equipped with a public address system so you can hear your guide clearly. Many reviewers mention the importance of arriving 15 minutes early—especially since some found the meeting point a bit tricky to locate, with buildings lacking clear numbering. To avoid confusion, some suggest a more direct pickup from the ship’s dock, which might make the start even smoother.

Crossing White Pass into the Yukon

The first leg takes you through the historic White Pass, crossing into Canada and into the Yukon Territory. The route is packed with stunning vistas—waterfalls cascading down rugged cliffs, tranquil lakes reflecting mountain peaks, and sweeping overlooks. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and the informative narration from guides about the area’s history and natural features. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos and to appreciate the sheer scale of this rugged wilderness.

Stops Along the Way

Throughout the drive, the tour makes several photo stops—each offering unique views. Reviewers praise the careful selection of viewpoints, which allow you to see waterfalls, lakes such as Emerald Lake, and rugged mountain peaks. One traveler mentioned that the scenery was “unbelievably beautiful,” and others appreciated the informative commentary about the landscape and history.

Carcross Desert and Emerald Lake

Two highlights are the Carcross Desert, often called the world’s smallest desert, and Emerald Lake, renowned for its striking color. Many guests loved the chance to walk around these natural wonders, take photos, and simply enjoy the peaceful setting. They also serve as great spots for a quick stretch and some fresh air in the middle of the day.

Yukon Wildlife and the Petting Farm

At Wild Adventure Yukon, you’ll visit a wildlife museum and a petting farm, where kids and adults alike can enjoy interacting with animals and learning about local fauna. The chance to spot wildlife—such as bears, moose, and caribou—is a common theme in reviews. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers have reported seeing bears in the wild, which is a special treat.

Dog Mushing Camp: The Main Attraction

No Yukon tour would be complete without experiencing the dog mushing camp. Here, you can meet sled dogs and observe their power and enthusiasm. For an additional fee, some upgrade to a sled ride—a highlight for many visitors who want to feel what it’s like to mush through snow (or the terrain available at the camp). Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and eager the dogs are and the informative guides who explain how mushers train and care for these working dogs.

Lunch in the Yukon

A well-loved aspect of the tour is the included lunch, with vegetarian options available. Many guests appreciated not having to worry about finding a meal during their busy day. The food is described as hearty and satisfying—perfect for fueling the afternoon’s exploration. Some reviews mention homemade donuts, adding a little extra indulgence.

Return to Skagway

The tour wraps up with a return trip to Skagway, usually arriving around 4 pm. Some travelers wished for a slightly earlier start or a more convenient meeting point, but overall, the seamless logistics and professional guiding make it a relaxing experience.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out is the authenticity of the Yukon experience. You get a genuine taste of the landscape—its grandeur, wildlife, and adventure—without feeling like you’re on a crowded bus or packaged attraction. Many guests mention how small-group sizes and friendly guides made the trip feel personal and immersive.

The guides frequently receive praise for their knowledge and humor—Rebecca and Garett, for example, are singled out for making the journey fun, informative, and engaging. Their insights about local history, wildlife, and the landscape add depth that simple sightseeing can’t match.

The Value of the Tour

At $185, the cost covers transportation, lunch, guide services, and the dog mushing experience, making it a solid value for those wanting a full-day Yukon adventure. While additional activities like sled rides cost extra, many find that the included parts are enough to satisfy their curiosity and sense of adventure.

Considering what’s included—several scenic stops, a wildlife museum, a petting farm, and the chance to see wild animals—the tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. Plus, the opportunity to capture stunning photos and learn from friendly, knowledgeable guides makes it worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and small-group enthusiasts. If you’re eager to see a mix of scenic vistas, wildlife, and Yukon culture, this tour delivers. It’s also a great choice for families or travelers who appreciate planned logistics and included meals—you won’t need to worry about additional planning or expenses.

Those with moderate physical fitness will enjoy the walk-around stops and the sled dog visit, but it’s not overly strenuous. Weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is advised, especially if you want to fully enjoy the outdoor stops.

The Yukon Discovery Tour from Skagway offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the wild beauty of Canada’s Yukon. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience with stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and friendly guides who go out of their way to make your day memorable. The included lunch and small-group atmosphere add to the overall value, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive day trip without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re seeking a small-group, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure that balances comfort with adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for travelers who love beautiful landscapes, local culture, and friendly guides—and who want to go home with plenty of photos and stories to tell.

Do I need a passport for this tour? Yes, passports or valid Canadian documents are required because you’ll be crossing into Canada. Make sure to check with Canadian Customs for specific document requirements, especially if you’re using other forms of ID.

Is lunch included? Yes, the tour includes lunch, with vegetarian options available. You won’t need to worry about finding a meal during the busy day.

How many people are in each group? The buses hold up to 32 people, but many reviews mention smaller groups of 9-12, which keeps the experience intimate and easier to ask questions.

What should I wear? Dress in layers to handle variable weather, since conditions can change rapidly. Weatherproof jackets and sturdy shoes are a good idea.

Can I upgrade the sled ride? Yes, there’s an option to upgrade for a sled ride with the dog mushing team, which many guests say is a highlight.

What wildlife might I see? While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers report seeing bears, moose, and caribou along the route.

What time does the tour start and end? The tour departs at 10:30 am from 216 Broadway and typically returns around 4 pm, depending on conditions.

Are children welcome? Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for families with moderate physical activity levels.

What if the weather cancels activities? The tour operates in all weather conditions. If heavy rain or a landslide causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a full refund or an alternative date.

Is this tour suitable in rainy weather? Yes, but expect that some outdoor activities might be less enjoyable, and dress appropriately.

This Yukon Discovery Tour from Skagway offers a balanced, authentic taste of the North’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture—ideal for curious travelers eager to experience the true wilderness of the Yukon.