Wild Adventure Yukon + Summit Tour

Imagine stepping back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush, crossing into Canada along the legendary White Pass, and soaking in views of waterfalls, glaciers, and wild animals. For many travelers, this 6.5-hour tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and family-friendly attractions—all for $143 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip takes you from the port of Skagway through the rugged landscapes of the Yukon and British Columbia, culminating at the entertaining Wild Adventure Yukon complex (formerly Caribou Crossing).

What we particularly love about this tour are the breathtaking vistas along the Klondike Highway, where every turn unveils a new panorama of mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife. The second highlight is the chance to connect with the wildlife and learn about First Nations and the Gold Rush, which adds layers of historical and cultural context.

A possible consideration, however, is the limited time at the Wild Adventure Yukon site itself—about an hour on average—which might leave some visitors wishing for more interaction with the puppies or sled dogs.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and a touch of history, especially those with a sense of adventure but who prefer a relaxed pace. Families, history buffs, and nature lovers seem to find this experience particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers multiple scenic stops along the Klondike Highway, with vistas of glaciers and waterfalls.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see animals like bears, mountain goats, and eagles in their natural habitat.
• Cultural and Historical Learning: Insights into the First Nations, the Klondike Gold Rush, and the Yukon’s history.
• Family-Friendly: The Wild Adventure Yukon complex is a fun stop with petting zoos and educational exhibits.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Monica are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and going the extra mile.
• Good Value: For a full-day experience with lunch, scenic stops, and entry to the attraction, the price offers solid value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins with hotel or cruise port pickup, which simplifies logistics and ensures you’re ready to depart on time. The tour is operated by Skagway Tours, with a live English guide, and generally lasts around 6.5 hours, making it a manageable day trip from Skagway. You’ll want to bring your passport since crossing into Canada is part of the journey; U.S. or Canadian citizens can also use a birth certificate with photo ID.

The group size tends to be comfortable, whether traveling in a van or a touring bus, with multiple scenic stops along the way. The transportation is reliable and comfortable, with the flexibility to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Drive along the Klondike Highway

One of the most notable aspects of this tour is the trip along the historic Klondike Highway, a route steeped in history and breathtaking scenery. As you ascend into the Yukon, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes—from lush forests to rugged alpine terrain.

A highlight is the White Pass Railroad, visible from the highway, which is a nod to the gold rush era and offers excellent photo opportunities. The drive includes stops for wildlife sightings—many guests have been fortunate enough to spot bears, mountain goats, and eagles. Reviewers frequently mention Monica’s ability to find a bear during their trip, which adds a touch of excitement and authenticity to the adventure.

Border Crossings and Territorial Views

Crossing into Canada’s Yukon Territory at Fraser is a smooth process, with the tour providing photo ops at the British Columbia and Yukon signs. These moments are simple but memorable, marking a tangible connection to the region’s vast wilderness and history.

The landscape continues to impress as you pass through the subarctic alpine tundra of Tormented Valley and view Summit Lake. These stops provide natural beauty and photo opportunities, giving you a sense of the remote yet accessible wilderness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wild Adventure Yukon Complex

The highlight for many is the stop at Wild Adventure Yukon (formerly Caribou Crossing). This complex offers something for all ages—ranging from a petting zoo with puppies (though, as some reviews note, there are days when puppies might not be available) to a museum explaining the Yukon’s history and the Gold Rush era.

Guests often mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the variety of exhibits. The tour includes a generous family-style BBQ lunch, with vegetarian options available. While some reviews found the lunch portions small or the gift shop somewhat touristy, overall, it’s viewed as a decent value considering the experience.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

A big draw is the chance to see wild animals in their habitat. Many visitors have raved about how guides like Monica or Daniel go out of their way to spot bears, eagles, and mountain goats. Several reviews recount close encounters with bears—an experience that makes the trip truly memorable.

The opportunity to connect with nature is evident, and the scenery is consistently described as “magnificent” with “stunning vistas,” making every mile worth the journey.

Additional Stops and Cultural Insights

Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about the First Nations traditions and the historical significance of the Gold Rush, which helped shape the Yukon’s identity. These stories add depth to the scenic beauty and wildlife sightings, making the journey more than just a sightseeing trip.

Guests appreciate guides like Monica, who are praised for their friendliness, depth of knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond. It’s clear that a good guide can elevate an already beautiful drive into a truly engaging experience.

Analyzing the Value

At $143, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—scenic vistas, wildlife, cultural insights, and a family-friendly attraction—all in one package. The included lunch and entry to Wild Adventure Yukon make it convenient and cost-effective compared to booking separate excursions.

Some reviewers noted that the time spent at Wild Adventure Yukon might be brief—about an hour—limiting hands-on experiences like sled-dog interactions or more extensive exploration. However, considering the overall package, most agree that the value is fair, especially given the scenic stops and expert narration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and learning about local history. Families with children will appreciate the petting zoo and engaging exhibits, while those interested in the Gold Rush or First Nations culture will find it enriching.

It’s suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace rather than intense adventure, and who want a taste of both nature and history in one manageable day.

Final Thoughts

The Wild Adventure Yukon + Summit Tour stands out as a well-rounded, accessible way to experience the wilderness and history of the Yukon without the hassle of planning multiple stops. Its combination of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural storytelling makes it an appealing choice for many travelers.

If you’re eager to see glaciers, spot bears, and learn about the Gold Rush with the comfort of a guided trip, this tour delivers solid value and memorable moments. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge really shine through, making the journey feel personal and authentic.

While the limited time at the attraction might leave some wishing for more interaction, overall, it’s a day that offers a genuine taste of Yukon’s wild beauty and history—perfect for curious travelers who want to pack a lot into one trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, a valid original passport is required for this activity since you’ll cross into Canada. Copies are not permitted. U.S. or Canadian citizens can use a birth certificate with photo ID.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with attractions like the petting zoo and scenic stops that appeal to children. However, be aware that the tour involves some walking and limited time at certain stops.

Will I see wildlife during the trip?
Many guests have reported seeing bears, mountain goats, eagles, and other wildlife, especially with guides like Monica or Daniel actively searching for animals.

How long is the stop at Wild Adventure Yukon?
The typical visit lasts about an hour, giving you time to explore the exhibits, visit the petting zoo, and enjoy the BBQ lunch.

Is lunch included, and are there vegetarian options?
Yes, lunch is included, and vegetarian options are available. Portions are generally sufficient to satisfy most appetites.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any restrictions for mobility or wheelchairs?
This tour requires some light walking, and it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or those requiring service animals or assistive devices unless accompanied by a caregiver.

How big are the tour groups?
Group sizes are comfortable, whether in a van or bus, allowing for a relaxed experience and good interaction with guides.

What kind of transportation is used?
Transport is via van or touring bus, with multiple scenic stops along the route, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Can I book this tour on the day of my cruise?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility to fit your schedule. Just remember to bring your passport on the day.

Exploring the Yukon doesn’t have to be complicated. This tour combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and history into a memorable six-and-a-half-hour journey that all types of travelers can enjoy—just bring your curiosity and your passport.

You can check availability for your dates here: