Wild Adventure Yukon Tour into Canada including City and Summit

Experience the Wild Side of the Yukon with a Guided Tour from Skagway

Imagine stepping aboard a comfortable van just outside the Skagway cruise terminal, ready to explore some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes Canada has to offer. For around $169 per person, this Wild Adventure Yukon Tour propels you on a roughly 6.5-hour journey into the wilds of British Columbia and the Yukon. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic spots like the Welcome to Alaska and Yukon signs, the Carcross Desert, and Emerald Lake — all packed into one memorable day.

What really shines about this tour is the balance between sightseeing and storytelling. The guides do a fantastic job weaving in local history, wildlife facts, and fun anecdotes, making each stop both informative and enjoyable. Plus, the numerous photo opportunities mean your camera will be busy. We especially appreciated the lunch at Wild Adventure Yukon (formerly Caribou Crossing), which features a delicious BBQ chicken meal with vegetarian options, served in a family-friendly setting that’s perfect for all ages.

A small caveat? Since the tour involves traveling through scenic areas with limited amenities, the success of some stops—like the Carcross Desert—depends on weather and timing. It’s not a strictly structured, minute-by-minute tour but more of a flexible adventure that adapts to the day’s conditions. If you love nature, wildlife, and authentic local experiences and don’t mind a full day on the road, this tour suits you perfectly.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery: From glaciers to lakes, the views are consistently stunning.
• Expert guides: Guides like Monica and Connor receive high praise for their knowledge and engaging personalities.
• Wildlife sightings: Keep your eyes peeled for animals along the routes, as many guests have spotted bears and other wildlife.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal makes it easy for cruise travelers.
• Flexible stops: Plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views, with optional visits to downtown Skagway.
• Good value: The tour includes a hearty lunch, entry fees to Wild Yukon, and all taxes, making it a comprehensive experience.

A Detailed Look at the Yukon Tour Experience

Starting in Skagway: A Gateway to Wilderness

Your day begins with pickup at the Skagway Cruise Terminal, where the bus awaits to whisk you into Canada’s stunning landscapes. The first stop is at the Welcome to Alaska Sign, perched atop the White Pass and Klondike Highway. This is a classic photo spot — imagine capturing the moment with the vast mountains as a backdrop. The 15-minute stop is free, giving you just enough time for a quick snapshot without feeling rushed.

Exploring Skagway’s Historic Heart

Depending on your schedule, you might enjoy a quick tour of downtown Skagway either before or after the Canadian leg. This charming town is rich in gold rush history and offers a glimpse into the frontier past, making it an enjoyable side note to the wilderness adventure.

The Scenic Drive and Waterfalls

Next, the journey takes you along the Klondike Highway, famous for its dramatic scenery. One of the highlights here is Pitchfork Falls, a 2,000-foot cascade visible from the highway, especially striking in good weather. As the falls pass beneath the White Pass and Yukon Railway bridge, you get a sense of the area’s rugged beauty that fueled the Klondike gold rush. Many reviews highlight how memorable this stop is, with guests marveling at the power of the rushing water.

Learning About the Gold Rush

A visit to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center offers context about the history that shaped this region. It’s a brief stop, but you’ll learn enough to appreciate the rugged terrain and the stories of prospectors who once panned for gold here. Many guests comment on how the guides make this history come alive, enriching the scenic experience with stories and local lore.

Entering Canada: Yukon Sign and Cultural Flair

Crossing into Canada, one of the tour’s most popular stops is at the Welcome to Yukon Sign. Here, you can snap photos alongside First Nations artisans selling crafts and souvenirs. This stop is about 15 minutes, and it’s a chance to learn about First Nations culture and humor — many reviews mention friendly vendors and good photo ops. In some cases, guests have enjoyed watching or participating in dog sled mushing demonstrations nearby, depending on the day.

Emerald Lake: Nature’s Masterpiece

Just 10 minutes north of Carcross Village, Emerald Lake offers a stunning view — a vivid, almost unreal shade of green, thanks to mineral deposits. Here, you can take a quick stroll or simply soak in the scenery. Guests consistently remark on how this spot’s tranquil beauty makes it worth a brief stop, with many capturing beautiful pictures to cherish later.

The World’s Smallest Desert? The Carcross Desert

The Carcross Desert is an unusual feature — a tiny inland desert formed from receding glaciers thousands of years ago. It’s a fun, quirky stop that’s weather-dependent, but many visitors find it fascinating to walk among sand dunes in a landscape that feels more like the Sahara than the Yukon. The 10-minute visit may be brief, but reviews suggest it’s a memorable photo opportunity.

The Heart of the Tour: Wild Yukon and Lunch

The highlight for many guests is the Wild Adventure Yukon stop in Carcross, which includes a family-style BBQ lunch with vegetarian options. The host offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect break to refuel. Many reviews praise the tasty food, with some noting the gluten-free and vegan options are readily available.

Following lunch, visitors can explore the Yukon Wildlife Museum and petting zoo, where kids and adults alike enjoy seeing animals and possibly petting puppies. This stop adds a playful, interactive element to the day that many guests find memorable.

Wildlife and Scenic Stops: The Real Reward

Throughout the tour, guides like Monica, Connor, and Adam keep guests engaged with stories about local wildlife, flora, and local history. Several reviews mention sightings of bears and other animals, though wildlife can’t be guaranteed. Still, the opportunities to see nature in its unspoiled state are plentiful, and guides often point out birds and other creatures along the way.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The tour operates via van or bus, with a group size capped at around 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. Pickup and drop-off at the cruise dock is included, simplifying logistics for cruise passengers. The cost of $169 covers all fees, taxes, and the lunch, representing solid value given the number of stops, scenic views, and the guided narration.

The duration of about 6.5 hours is well-paced; guests never feel rushed, and there’s enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the scenery and take photos. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews mentioning that even kids and older adults have a good time, provided they’re comfortable with a full day’s travel.

Guides and Guest Experience

One of the strongest points of the tour is the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Guests rave about guides like Monica, Connor, and Adam, who are described as personable, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion for the area. Many reviews mention that guides make the trip lively with stories, humor, and insights that deepen the enjoyment beyond just scenery.

Overall Value and Appeal

For the price, this tour offers a lot of scenic diversity and cultural insight. The stops at Emerald Lake, the Yukon Sign, and the Carcross Desert alone make it worth considering. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch and entry fees boosts its value, especially when compared to pricier excursions like train rides or private tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Yukon adventure that combines scenic beauty, wildlife spotting, and cultural interactions—all in a manageable day trip. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, plenty of photo ops, and authentic local flavor, you’ll find this tour both fun and enriching. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have praised its relaxed yet engaging pace, making it a good choice for most ages.

While weather can influence some stops, many guests have found that the highlights — like Emerald Lake and Yukon Sign — make this tour worthwhile, regardless. If you’re seeking a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich experience during your Skagway visit, this guided trip deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s particularly popular with families and older adults. Just be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and some walking at stops like Emerald Lake and the petting zoo.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and your passport for entering Canada. A sense of curiosity and patience will also enhance your experience.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a family-style BBQ lunch is part of the tour, with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options available upon request.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 6.5 hours, including transportation, stops, and sightseeing.

Are there additional costs I should expect?
No, all entry fees, taxes, and lunch are included. Tipping your guide is not included but appreciated.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Yukon tour from Skagway provides a genuinely memorable slice of northern wilderness, blending natural beauty with engaging stories. It’s perfect for those looking to see a variety of landscapes without sacrificing comfort or depth. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll leave with plenty of photos, new knowledge, and perhaps a few puppy stories to share.