If you’re visiting Skagway and want to experience some of Alaska’s most breathtaking scenery and historic highlights, this White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour is a solid choice. Priced at $60 per person and lasting around three hours, the tour takes you up the Klondike Highway aboard a cozy 24-passenger mini-bus with expansive windows. Led by a knowledgeable guide—often praised for humor and storytelling—you’ll journey past waterfalls, glaciers, and historic cemeteries, reaching an altitude of 3,922 feet at the White Pass Summit.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines gorgeous views with engaging storytelling, offering an authentic glimpse into the area’s gold rush past. The stops at Reid Falls and the Skagway Overlook provide picture-perfect moments, while the chance to spot wildlife like mountain goats and black bears adds a touch of spontaneity. Plus, the tour’s flexibility with multiple stops for photos and short hikes makes it particularly appealing for families or those wanting a more relaxed experience.
One consideration: the weather can significantly impact visibility. Several reviews mention fog and rain sometimes obscuring the vistas, so timing your trip for early in the day or during clear weather can make a big difference. This tour suits travelers who love scenery, history, and a bit of adventure, especially those who prefer a smaller, more intimate group rather than a crowded train or bus.
Key Points
- Scenic Drive: Experience stunning mountain vistas, waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife along the Klondike Highway.
- Historic Stops: Visit the Gold Rush Cemetery and learn stories about Skagway’s gold rush days.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture incredible views at the White Pass summit, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Skagway Overlook.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bears, marmots, and ptarmigans—nature’s own show.
- Waterfalls Tour: Enjoy stops at Reid Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Pitch Fork Falls, with optional short hikes.
- Cost & Duration: Great value for a 3-hour tour that balances scenic beauty, history, and photo ops.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Meeting Logistics
The tour begins with a convenient pickup from Skagway’s docks, where a guide or representative will be waiting 30 minutes before departure with distinctive Klondike Tours signs. The small size of the bus—comfortably accommodating 14 to 24 guests—creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for engaging with your guide and fellow travelers. No need to worry about transportation logistics; just remember to bring your passport for border crossing and your camera.
The Scenic Drive: Coastal Mountains and Rainforest
Once onboard, the journey quickly reveals its charm. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife, making each stop more meaningful. As we traveled over rugged mountain ranges dotted with glacier-fed waterfalls, it was clear that this area’s natural beauty is undeniable. The temperate rainforest setting adds to the lush, vibrant landscape, making every turn of the road worth admiring.
Historic Highlights: Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls
One of the tour’s most touching stops is the Gold Rush Cemetery, where your guide will share stories about the brave—or sometimes not-so-brave—fortune seekers that once called Skagway home. It’s a quiet place that feels like stepping back into a different era. From there, a short hike takes you to Reid Falls, a stunning 300-foot waterfall. Several reviews mention that this stop is a favorite; one traveler called it “absolutely beautiful” and a perfect backdrop for photos.
More Great Tours NearbyWhite Pass Summit: The Highlight
The climb to the White Pass Summit provides jaw-dropping views and a tangible sense of achievement. Standing at 3922 feet above sea level, the summit is an iconic backdrop for photos—especially at the Alaska sign. Weather permitting, you’ll get sweeping vistas of mountains and glaciers. A common theme from reviews is that weather can be unpredictable; fog or rain might limit visibility, but even then, the experience of being up high in the mountains is memorable. If you’re lucky with the weather, the scenery here is truly breathtaking.
Waterfalls and Photo Stops
This tour features a built-in waterfall itinerary, which is a real bonus. Stops include Bridal Veil Falls, where travelers can dip their fingers in the cold water—something that many reviews rave about—and Pitch Fork Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Southeast Alaska. The guide will explain each sight’s significance and history, enriching your appreciation of the natural surroundings.
Skagway Overlook: Ship and Town Views
The Skagway Overlook provides a panoramic view of the town and harbor, with an excellent vantage point to photograph your cruise ship and the fjord stretching into the distance. It’s a prime spot for capturing that perfect travel shot, and many reviews emphasize how this stop offers postcard-worthy views.
Wildlife and Nature
A major perk of this tour is the chance to spot wildlife along the drive. Reports of sightings of mountain goats, bears, and marmots are common, adding an element of excitement—especially for nature lovers. The guide often points out signs of animal activity, making each trip unique.
Final Thoughts on the Tour
This guided bus tour offers a comprehensive experience, blending natural beauty, historic sites, and lots of photo opportunities. The small-group setting makes it more personal and flexible, allowing for spontaneous stops and questions. Its value lies in the combination of scenery, storytelling, and accessibility—a well-rounded choice for most travelers, especially those who want to see a broad swath of the White Pass area without the physical demands of hiking or the expense of a train trip.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, historic storytelling, and photography, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a smaller, more intimate group. If weather looks promising, you’ll love the vistas, but be prepared for the possibility of fog or rain. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights, given the mountain summit stops.
Those on a budget or with limited time will find this tour offers excellent value—covering a lot of ground in just three hours. However, if you’re seeking a rail experience or more extensive hiking, you might prefer to look elsewhere.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including all stops and sightseeing.
Where do I meet the tour?
Guests are picked up at the Skagway docks, with representatives ready 30 minutes before departure. You can also check in at the tour office on 3rd Ave. and State St.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport for border crossing, camera, and possibly some snacks or drinks, as food is not included.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children who are comfortable with short bus rides and outdoor stops will enjoy it. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, and strollers are not allowed on the bus.
What if the weather is foggy or rainy?
Visibility of mountain vistas may be limited, but the waterfalls, historic sites, and wildlife sightings still make the trip worthwhile. Timing your tour earlier in the day can improve chances for clear views.
Can I see wildlife?
Yes, wildlife such as mountain goats, bears, and marmots are often spotted along the route, especially in good weather.
Are there any additional costs?
The tour fee covers the bus, guide, and stops. The shuttle to the tour office is typically included, though one review noted a small fee for the shuttle if not part of the tour package.
The Bottom Line
This White Pass Summit Guided Bus Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historic insight, and picture-perfect moments—all within a comfortable, small-group setting. It’s a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes of Skagway without the physical exertion of hiking or the higher cost of train rides. The knowledgeable guides and multiple stops make it engaging and flexible, ensuring you get a true feel for this rugged corner of Alaska.
Ideal for travelers who love scenic drives, photo opportunities, and local stories, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Alaska’s mountains, waterfalls, and history. While weather can be unpredictable, most reviews suggest that even on foggy days, the experience remains worthwhile. If you’re short on time or budget but want a rundown, this tour hits the sweet spot.
For those seeking an authentic, scenic, and fun introduction to White Pass and Skagway’s surroundings, this guided bus trip is hard to beat.
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