From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip

Set out on a captivating day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway, where you’ll discover stunning landscapes and rich history. This 10-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature, with stops at the vibrant Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert. Keep your camera ready for potential wildlife sightings, and enjoy the scenic drive along the South Klondike Highway with a live tour guide and complimentary snacks. What awaits you in Skagway is a journey worth taking.

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Key Points

This day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway, Alaska, lasts around 10 hours and costs approximately $262.03 per person.
The itinerary includes stops at Emerald Lake, Carcross Desert, and the historic gold rush town of Skagway, with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
The tour provides a live guide, complimentary beverages and snacks, and gratuities, offering an all-inclusive experience focused on scenic enjoyment.
Participants must have a valid passport or government-issued ID for the border crossing, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain.
Recommended packing includes weatherproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery along the South Klondike Highway.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway lasts 10 hours and costs from $262.03 per person.

Pickup is included from downtown Whitehorse, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary highlights include stops at Emerald Lake, Carcross Desert, and the historic gold rush town of Skagway. Wildlife sightings like black bears, grizzlies, and moose are possible.

Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Yukon with stops at Emerald Lake, Carcross Desert, and the historic town of Skagway. Spot wildlife like bears and moose.

The tour includes a live guide, beverages, snacks, and gratuities, but the White Pass and Yukon Railroad Train Ride is an optional extra.

Passport and visa are required to cross the Yukon-Alaska border.

Looking for more options in Whitehorse? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

After guests are picked up from downtown Whitehorse at 8:30 AM, the first stop is Emerald Lake, renowned for its vibrant colors caused by sediment deposits.

Next, the tour visits the Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, and the settlement of Carcross.

The scenic drive along the South Klondike Highway provides ample opportunities for photography.

Finally, the tour explores the historic gold rush town of Skagway.

Throughout the day, travelers may spot wildlife like black bears, grizzlies, and moose.

The tour includes a live guide, beverages, snacks, and gratuities, but the White Pass and Yukon Railroad Train Ride is an optional add-on.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the highlights of the day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway is the potential wildlife sightings along the way.

As you travel through the scenic landscapes, keep an eye out for black bears, grizzlies, moose, and other local wildlife. These majestic creatures are often spotted in their natural habitats, providing a thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts.

While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the chances are good, especially in the more remote areas. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture any memorable wildlife encounters during this unforgettable journey.

Inclusions

The day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway includes several key amenities to enhance the overall experience.

A live tour guide accompanies travelers, providing expert commentary and insights throughout the journey. Complimentary beverages and snacks keep guests refreshed during the trip. Gratuities for the guide and any other service providers are also included, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

However, personal expenses like meals, souvenirs, or additional activities in Skagway aren’t covered. The trip package offers a convenient, all-inclusive experience, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the scenic route and historic town.

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Important Information

When planning the trip, travelers should bring their passport or government-issued ID as they’ll need to cross the Yukon-Alaska border.

The day-trip isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and activities involved.

To be prepared, travelers should pack:

Comfortable, weatherproof clothing, hiking or sturdy shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery are essential for this trip.

Comfortable, weatherproof clothing
Hiking or sturdy shoes
A camera to capture the stunning scenery

Plus, visitors should be aware that personal expenses aren’t covered in the tour package.

There's plenty more to explore in Whitehorse

Hotel Pickup and Departure

The day-trip begins with a hotel pickup in downtown Whitehorse at 8:30 AM. Travelers are collected from their accommodations and transported to the starting point of the journey.

The tour guide ensures everyone is present and accounted for before departing. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks passengers away, heading south along the scenic South Klondike Highway.

This early departure allows ample time to explore the day’s highlights, with the first stop coming at the vibrant Emerald Lake.

From there, the adventure continues, offering opportunities to witness the vast landscapes and local wildlife of the Yukon.

Exploring Emerald Lake

After departing Whitehorse, the day-trip first stops at the stunning Emerald Lake. Known for its vibrant colors due to sediment deposits, this natural wonder offers a breathtaking sight.

Visitors can:

Admire the lake’s distinct emerald hue, created by the suspended glacial flour in the water.
Stroll along the shoreline and take in the surrounding boreal forest and mountain scenery.
Snap photos of the picturesque landscape, capturing the vivid contrast between the lake and its rugged environment.

This tranquil stop allows guests to stretch their legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the Yukon before continuing their journey.

Visiting Carcross Desert and Skagway

From Emerald Lake, the day-trip continues on the South Klondike Highway, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Yukon.

The first stop is the Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, a surreal sight amid the rugged terrain. Visitors can explore the settlement of Carcross, known for its historic buildings and Indigenous culture.

The tour then arrives in Skagway, the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush. Guests can wander the town’s wooden boardwalks, visit museums, and enjoy the region’s rich history.

Throughout the journey, wildlife sightings, including black bears and moose, are possible.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the trip. The tour includes complimentary beverages and snacks, but guests are welcome to bring additional items if they prefer.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Guests of all ages are welcome to participate, though the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Parental supervision is recommended for minors.

Is There a Tour Guide Who Speaks Multiple Languages?

The tour includes a live multilingual guide who can provide commentary in several languages during the day-trip. Guests can expect a informative and engaging experience with the ability to ask questions in their preferred language.

Can I Leave the Group During the Tour to Explore on My Own?

Participants can explore on their own during the scheduled stops, but they must rejoin the group at the designated meeting time. The tour guide provides a structured itinerary and ensures everyone returns safely.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Day of the Trip?

If the weather is poor on the day of the trip, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary as needed. They’ll provide guidance on appropriate clothing and ensure guests’ safety and comfort throughout the day.

Final Words

This captivating day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. With stunning landscapes, rich history, and the chance to spot wildlife, it’s an adventure not to be missed. The included stops at Emerald Lake and Carcross Desert, along with the scenic drive, make for a well-rounded and enjoyable excursion. Don’t forget your camera – this trip is sure to create lasting memories.