Dog Mushing and Yukon Experience

Imagine a day where luxury meets adventure, and history blends seamlessly with the thrill of the wilderness. For those headed to Skagway, the Dog Mushing and Yukon Experience offers just that. Priced at $1,599 and lasting about six hours, this private tour takes you on an intimate journey from Skagway’s historic streets into the heart of the Yukon. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll travel in a comfortable Cadillac Escalade ESV, enjoying sweeping views along the Klondike Highway and engaging commentary on the region’s past and present.

What we love about this experience is its combination of authentic dog mushing insights from Michelle Phillips, a veteran Iditarod musher, and the opportunity to witness some of the most stunning scenery in North America. The ride itself feels tailored and personal, thanks to the small group size, and the chance to see Emerald Lake and Carcross adds authentic charm to the day. As a bonus, the tour features an exciting 1.5-mile race track through the Boreal Forest, giving you a taste of real sled dog action — a highlight for adventure lovers.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite a hefty price tag. For travelers on a budget, it may seem steep, but considering the private, luxurious transportation, personalized commentary, and exclusive experiences, many find it offers good value. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate comfort, a touch of history, and a love of outdoor adventures. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a more intimate, tailored experience rather than a large group bus tour.

Key Points

• Luxurious private transportation provides comfort and personalized service.
• In-depth commentary from Michelle Phillips gives authentic insights into dog mushing and the Yukon.
• Scenic route along the Klondike Highway offers breathtaking views and interesting stops.
• Historic stops like Skagway’s old town and Carcross enrich your understanding of the region’s past.
• Active experience with a 1.5-mile sled dog race track adds excitement to the day.
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind in case plans change.

In-Depth Review of the Dog Mushing and Yukon Experience

The Journey Begins in Historic Skagway

Starting at 8:00 am, your private tour kicks off in Skagway’s downtown district, where the echoes of the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush are still palpable. Walking through this town, you’ll notice the preserved architecture and hear stories that bring this frontier town back to life. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the region’s rugged past before heading into more remote territory.

The comfort of your Cadillac Escalade ESV makes the hour-long drive north feel more like a scenic excursion than a transit. Your guide’s enthusiastic historical commentary helps you appreciate the significance of each vista, from original gold rush sites to the modern-day wilderness. We loved the luxury vehicle’s spaciousness and panoramic windows, which made every mile a visual delight.

Crossing the Canadian Border and Fraser Lake

Leaving Skagway, your journey leads across the Canadian border—a quick but interesting checkpoint where you might find the Arctic Tundra-like landscapes emerging. The 15-minute stop at Fraser Lake provides a brief but memorable glimpse of this unique ecosystem. It’s a fleeting moment, but one that hints at the wilderness so characteristic of the Yukon.

Emerald Lake and the Scenic Drive

Crossing into the Yukon, you’ll spend approximately two hours traveling along the Klondike Highway, one of North America’s most celebrated routes. The scenery here is what many travelers come for: rugged mountains, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. Your guide’s commentary enriches this experience, sharing stories about the area’s gold rush history and wildlife.

Emerald Lake, with its striking turquoise waters, is a highlight. It’s a perfect photo stop and a great place to stretch your legs. This spot offers a chance to appreciate the stark beauty of the Yukon’s wilderness — a landscape that feels both untouched and timeless.

Carcross: A Historic First Nations Village

Next, the tour takes you to Carcross, a small village brimming with First Nations history and charm. You’ll have about two hours here to explore. The village showcases First Nation’s art, totem poles, and local shops, making it a cultural highlight. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy local coffee, and browse handcrafted souvenirs. We found Carcross’s authenticity refreshing — it’s more than just a tourist stop; it’s a living community with stories to tell.

The Heart of the Experience: Dog Mushing and the Race Track

The real thrill begins with a visit to the race track around Tutshi Lake. Here, Michelle Phillips, a seasoned Iditarod veteran, shares her experiences and passion for dog mushing. Her stories add depth to the activity, making it more than just a tourist attraction.

Feeling adventurous? You can watch or even participate in the 1.5-mile race around the Boreal Forest. It’s a unique opportunity to witness sled dogs in action, with their boundless energy and teamwork. This segment truly sets the tour apart, appealing especially to those who crave hands-on outdoor adventure.

Practical Aspects and Value

The private nature of this tour means you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, with flexible timing and tailored commentary. For six hours, you’re transported in style, with snacks and plenty of scenic stops to break up the drive. Given the cost, the value lies in the exclusivity, comfort, and depth of experience — especially compared to larger, more rushed group tours.

Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, it’s important to note the price point. For some, $1,599 might seem steep, but the private vehicle, detailed guiding, and exclusive access justify this for many travelers. Also, the itinerary is quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine luxury, history, and adventure in a single day. It suits those who appreciate comfortable transportation and personalized attention, rather than large group settings. If you’re interested in dog mushing, historic towns, and stunning scenery, this tour covers all bases.

It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or families seeking a memorable, tailored adventure. If your time in Skagway is limited but you want an authentic taste of the Yukon with a touch of luxury, this could be your perfect match.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including families and seniors. The tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, guided commentary, and the guided activities at the race track. It does not specify additional inclusions like meals or souvenirs.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long is the drive between stops?
Travel times between stops vary but typically include about an hour from Skagway to Fraser Lake, then two hours to Emerald Lake, and additional time to Carcross.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Is alcohol or food included?
The description doesn’t specify, but it’s safe to assume that food and drink might need to be purchased separately, especially during stops.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to participate in or watch the sled dog race.

To sum it up, the Dog Mushing and Yukon Experience offers a well-rounded, luxurious, and authentic taste of the Yukon’s wilderness and history. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and an active dog sled race makes for a memorable day. While it’s priced steeply, the personalized nature and high-quality amenities make it worth considering if you want a private, immersive adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to blend comfort, storytelling, and outdoor fun into one seamless excursion.