Full-Day Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Skagway

Discover Alaska’s Wilderness on a Full-Day Voyageur Canoe Safari from Skagway

If you’re looking to connect with Alaska’s wild beauty in an authentic and memorable way, this Full-Day Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari offers a perfect blend of scenic travel, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventure. Starting in Skagway, this tour combines a ferry ride across the Lynn Fjord, a scenic drive through the Chilkoot River Valley, and a peaceful paddle around Chilkoot Lake in a traditional voyageur canoe. For around $265 per person, you get a roughly 6.5-hour immersive experience that’s enjoyable whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply eager to see Alaska’s wildlife.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guides who share their naturalist knowledge, making each stop both educational and visually stunning. Plus, the opportunity to paddle a sturdy voyageur canoe in a serene setting feels like stepping back in time, connecting you more intimately with Alaska’s past and present. The small group size (limited to 10 travelers) really ensures you get personalized attention, making the whole experience more engaging and less rushed.

A small consideration to keep in mind is that your physical fitness should be moderate. While the tour is accessible, paddling and walking around some scenic spots require a reasonable level of activity. Also, as the tour operates rain or shine, dressing appropriately is essential. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure, especially if you’re traveling in a small group and value guided insights.

Key Points

• Authentic outdoor adventure with scenic boat rides, wildlife sightings, and paddling.
• Expert naturalist guides enrich every part of the journey.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and better wildlife viewing.
• Includes a waterfront picnic with stunning views of lakes and mountains.
• Operates rain or shine—dress accordingly to stay comfortable.
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy nature and learning about Alaska’s ecosystem.

A Detailed Look at the Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in Alaska’s natural landscape, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances transportation, wildlife viewing, and hands-on paddling. From the moment you start, you’re stepping into a carefully curated adventure that combines scenic travels with authentic encounters.

Starting Point: Fort Seward and Scenic Drive to Chilkoot Valley

Your journey kicks off with a short visit to Fort Seward, the historic first Army base in Alaska. Here, you get a quick but fascinating glimpse of Alaska’s military past, with a commanding view of the coastline. It’s a perfect spot to snap some photos and get a sense of the area’s history before heading inland.

Next, a scenic drive takes you from downtown Haines through lush forests and past snow-capped peaks, offering plenty of opportunities for photo stops and wildlife spotting. Your guides, often naturalists, take this time to share stories about the geology, Gold Rush history, and the diverse animals that inhabit this part of Alaska.

Wildlife Viewing in the Chilkoot River Valley

The highlight for many travelers is the Chilkoot River Valley, renowned for its spectacular wildlife sightings. Here, you might see brown bears fishing for salmon, eagles soaring overhead, and mountain goats clinging to rocky cliffs. The guides are seasoned naturalists who love sharing their knowledge, making every sighting both educational and awe-inspiring. One reviewer mentions, “Our guides were expert naturalists and enjoyed sharing their love and knowledge of the Alaskan wilderness,” which makes a big difference when you’re trying to spot elusive wildlife.

The area’s salmon runs attract various predators, giving you a good chance to witness nature in action. The guides’ keen eyesight and experience help you maximize your wildlife encounters.

Paddling at Chilkoot Lake: Traditional Voyageur Canoe

Once in the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area, the real paddling begins. You’ll step into a sturdy and comfortable voyageur canoe—a vessel that’s both stable and quiet, perfect for observing nature without disturbing it. We loved the way the canoe’s design allows you to get close to the water’s surface, offering a more intimate connection with the surroundings.

The 1.5-hour paddle takes you through inlets, small coves, and past waterfalls tumbling off the mountains. The guides will steer you past salmon spawning streams—an incredible sight—and point out waterfalls spilling into the lake, creating a symphony of natural sounds. One reviewer recalls that “the canoe holds ten people, but only our group of four was on board, which meant plenty of space and personalized attention,” adding to the sense of peace and quiet on the water.

The Waterfront Picnic: A Delicious Break

After paddling, everyone gathers for a beachside picnic. Sitting on the shoreline, you look out over the Alaskan lakes and mountains—a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights. The included lunch features local fare, with vegetarian options available if you specify ahead. The setting, coupled with the fresh air and stunning views, makes this break a memorable part of the day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour begins with a short drive from Haines after the ferry from Skagway, with a total duration of about 6 hours and 30 minutes. The small group limit of 10 ensures a more personalized experience, and the price of $264.68 reflects a premium experience that includes transportation, guiding, a boat ride, paddling, lunch, and safety gear like PFDs, rain ponchos, and rubber boots.

While the tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, paddling and walking are involved, so travelers should be comfortable with some activity. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dressing in layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes is a must.

Authentic Experience with Knowledgeable Guides

One of the most praised aspects—based on reviews—is the guides’ expertise. “Hannah was our guide and she was amazing,” one reviewer shares, highlighting the value of a knowledgeable naturalist who makes wildlife and natural history accessible and fun. These guides enhance the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a learning adventure.

Potential Drawbacks

The one thing to consider is that cancellation policies are strict—if weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, but a full refund or alternative date will be offered. Also, the cost may seem high for some, but the combination of transportation, activities, and the small group setting provides a level of quality and intimacy that many travelers find worth the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This voyage is ideal for active travelers who love wildlife, scenic landscapes, and small-group experiences. It’s particularly suitable if you appreciate guided insights and want a hands-on way to explore Alaska’s wilderness. Nature lovers and those interested in wildlife behavior will find the stops especially rewarding. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy outdoor activities, this full-day experience offers both adventure and education wrapped in one.

Final Thoughts

This Alaska wildlife canoe safari from Skagway offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and hands-on paddling in a small-group setting. The combination of expert guides, stunning scenery, and authentic outdoor activities makes it a standout choice for those wanting to experience Alaska’s wilderness more intimately.

While it’s not a casual sightseeing tour—expect some physical activity—the rewards include close-up wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and a peaceful paddle that immerses you in the natural world. If you’re looking for a meaningful, engaging day that combines adventure with education, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Alaska journey.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, sightseeing, paddling, and the picnic.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While it’s designed for moderate physical fitness, the paddling is manageable for most, and guides are experienced with naturalist insight that appeals to all ages. Always check your comfort level with paddling and walking.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s best to wear layers, bring rain gear, and wear sturdy waterproof shoes or boots.

Does the tour include wildlife sightings?
Yes, you can expect to see brown bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon. Guides are skilled at spotting wildlife and explaining their behaviors.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers ferry transportation, guides, lunch, PFDs, rain ponchos, and rubber boots if needed.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes. The tour operates in all weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or another date.

This full-day Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari provides a rare chance to enjoy Alaska’s wilderness with knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, and a memorable paddle. It’s perfect for those eager to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife, enjoy stunning landscapes, and embrace outdoor adventure in a small-group setting.