Skagway’s charming port is a springboard for some truly memorable full-day excursions. Thanks to its prime location at the edge of the Yukon and close to Alaska’s wilderness, it offers a mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and wildlife adventures. These tours are perfect for travelers craving a deeper connection with the region’s rugged beauty and history—without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re after panoramic mountain views, wildlife encounters, or a taste of the Yukon, Skagway’s full-day tours deliver immersive experiences with expert guides and authentic settings.
While many tours operate year-round, the best time to visit depends on your interests—summer brings longer days and active wildlife, while early fall highlights vibrant foliage. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for popular excursions like those discussed below.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find two of the best full-day tours in Skagway: one that takes you on a scenic journey into the Yukon with historical and wildlife stops, and another that combines a water-based wildlife safari with a ferry ride and kayaking. Both tours offer unique ways to experience Alaska’s wild landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife, all with highly praised guides and memorable moments.
For more detailed options, visit Skagway Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of the Yukon and Full-Day Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Skagway.
1. Skagway Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of the Yukon
This full-day tour of the Yukon is about experiencing the wild beauty and historic highlights of Canada’s westernmost territory. Traveling along the Klondike Highway by minibus, you’ll pass stunning mountain scenery, wildlife-rich areas, and charming towns like Carcross. The tour includes visits to the Caribou Crossing Trading Post, where you can explore a wildlife museum and see sled dogs in action at the dogsled camp—an authentic taste of Yukon life.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on scenic photo stops and cultural insights. Highlights include panoramic views at Tutshi Lake and Tagish Lake, the iconic “Larger than Life” Yukon sign, and the Carcross Desert, known for its surprising sand dunes. The visit to Carcross provides a chance to experience Native culture and historic buildings, while a stop at Lake Bennett offers a tranquil setting to relax.
Guides like Michael and Connor are praised for their wealth of knowledge, humor, and friendliness, making the 6.5-hour trip both informative and fun. Reviewers consistently mention the breathtaking scenery and engaging commentary, with many calling it a “fantastic trip” and “well worth the price.” The included wildlife museum and sled dog camp add educational value, and the trip is ideal for those who love a mix of nature, history, and authentic Alaskan/Yukon culture.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a comprehensive Yukon experience packed with scenic stops, wildlife, and cultural insights, this tour offers excellent value for its $169.08 price and 6.5-hour length.
2. Full-Day Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Skagway
This full-day canoe safari combines water, land, and wildlife in a way that’s hard to beat. Starting in Skagway, you’ll take a ferry across Lynn Fjord to the historic town of Haines, renowned for its Fort Seward, the first Army base in Alaska. From there, a scenic drive through the Chilkoot River Valley offers ample opportunities to spot brown bears, mountain goats, eagles, and spawning salmon—all narrated by guides with expert naturalist knowledge.
The highlight is paddling around Chilkoot Lake in a voyageur canoe, a stable and quiet vessel that allows for close-up wildlife viewing. The guides emphasize natural history, geology, and Gold Rush tales, adding depth and context to the landscapes. After canoeing, you’ll enjoy a beachside picnic overlooking the lakes and mountains—an ideal setting for soaking in the scenery and wildlife.
At just over 6.5 hours, the trip’s price of $264.68 reflects its all-included nature: ferry ride, guided drive, paddling experience, and picnic. Reviewers mention the incredible wildlife sightings and “the perfect mix of adventure and education,” making it more than just a boat trip. Its emphasis on small-group paddling and naturalist guides makes it suitable for active travelers or families comfortable with light physical activity.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an immersive, water-based wildlife experience with a ferry crossing and boat paddling, this safari offers a memorable, well-rounded adventure in pristine Alaskan wilderness.
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your interests and stamina. The Yukon tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive land-based experience with a focus on scenery, history, and wildlife. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer comfortable transportation and a diverse itinerary.
If your passion is wildlife viewing on the water with a mix of paddling and ferry rides, then the Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari is the better fit. It suits active travelers and those eager to see Alaska’s animals in their natural habitat up close.
Cost is a factor too— the Yukon trip offers great value for a full day of sightseeing at $169.08, while the wildlife safari, at $264.68, includes more physical activity and a ferry crossing, justifying the higher price. Booking early is advisable as both tours are popular, especially in summer.
Final Thoughts
Both tours give you a genuine glimpse of Alaska’s wilderness and history, but they cater to different preferences. If you favor scenic drives, cultural stops, and wildlife, the Yukon tour provides a rich, comfortable experience. For active travelers who want to combine boat travel, paddling, and wildlife encounters, the canoe safari delivers a more hands-on adventure.
Consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests when choosing. Both tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking early will ensure you get your preferred date. No matter which you pick, you’re set for a memorable day exploring some of Alaska’s most captivating landscapes.