Embark on an enchanting day-trip from Whitehorse, Yukon, to the historic town of Skagway, Alaska. You’ll traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Yukon, exploring the vibrant Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert. Discover the charm of Carcross and learn about the region’s Indigenous heritage. As you journey through the breathtaking White Pass, you’ll be captivated by snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls. Finally, arrive in the vibrant and historically-rich Skagway, where you can stroll along the colorful main street and uncover the allure of the gold rush era. This is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Key Points

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Key Points

  • This day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway lasts approximately 10 hours and includes convenient pickup and drop-off in downtown Whitehorse.
  • The tour features stops at Emerald Lake, renowned for its vivid green hue, and the Carcross Desert, known as the ‘world’s smallest desert’.
  • Guests have the opportunity to explore the historic town of Carcross, learn about First Nations’ history and heritage, and browse local shops and cafes.
  • The tour provides breathtaking views of the majestic White Pass scenery, including snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine alpine lakes.
  • Skagway highlights include its vibrant atmosphere, well-preserved historical charm, and opportunities to explore local restaurants, shops, and learn about the region’s gold rush history.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Tour Overview

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip

Tour Overview
This day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway lasts approximately 10 hours and is led by a live tour guide who provides commentary in English.

Guests will be picked up from their accommodations in downtown Whitehorse and returned around 6:00 PM.

Along the way, they’ll stop at Emerald Lake, known for its tranquil, intensely colored water surface, as well as the Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert.

In Carcross, visitors can learn about First Nations history and explore the town’s restaurants, cafes, and art shops.

The tour also includes stops at the scenic White Pass and the colorful, vibrant town of Skagway, home to restaurants, souvenir shops, and jewelers.

Pickup and Dropoff

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Pickup and Dropoff

The tour picks up guests from their accommodations in downtown Whitehorse and returns them around 6:00 PM.

This day-trip to Skagway includes three key pickup and drop-off features:

  1. Convenient downtown Whitehorse pickup locations, ensuring a hassle-free start to the adventure.
  2. Punctual return to Whitehorse around 6:00 PM, allowing ample time for guests to enjoy the rest of their evening.
  3. Reliable transportation throughout the day, with the tour guide handling all the logistics and ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.

With these thoughtful pickup and drop-off arrangements, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant towns along the way.

Emerald Lake

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Emerald Lake

As the tour departs Whitehorse, one of the first stops is Emerald Lake, a tranquil body of water renowned for its vivid green hue. The lake’s unique coloration is the result of light refracting through mineral deposits, creating a mesmerizing, almost surreal appearance.

Visitors can stroll along the lakeside trails, taking in the serene surroundings and snapping photos of the stunning natural scenery. The lake’s calm surface perfectly reflects the towering mountains that rise up in the distance, creating a picturesque scene.

Emerald Lake is a truly picturesque introduction to the natural wonders that await on this day-trip from Whitehorse to Skagway.

Carcross Desert

One of the tour’s highlights is a stop at the Carcross Desert, often referred to as the ‘world’s smallest desert.’

This unique geological formation, spanning just a few square kilometers, features a landscape of fine sand dunes and sparse vegetation, a stark contrast to the lush, mountainous regions surrounding it.

Visitors can expect to learn about the desert’s fascinating history and formation, which was shaped by glacial retreats and wind erosion over thousands of years.

The tour offers three main activities at the Carcross Desert:

  1. Exploring the sand dunes and taking in the sweeping views.
  2. Hiking along the marked trails to observe the local flora and fauna.
  3. Visiting the nearby historic town of Carcross to learn about the region’s Indigenous culture.
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Carcross Experiences

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Carcross Experiences

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip

Carcross Experiences

After exploring the vast Carcross Desert, visitors can enjoy the rich cultural experiences the nearby town of Carcross has to offer.

Here, they’ll learn about the First Nations’ history and heritage at local museums and art galleries. Visitors can browse the charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, discovering unique artisanal products and Indigenous crafts.

The town’s vibrant spirit and striking scenery provide ample opportunities for photo ops. Whether it’s sampling regional cuisine, perusing local art, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, Carcross invites travelers to connect with the Yukon’s indigenous roots and modern-day allure.

White Pass Scenery

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - White Pass Scenery

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip

White Pass Scenery

The White Pass scenic route offers breathtaking vistas of majestic mountains and dramatic landscapes, captivating visitors with its natural splendor. As the tour vehicle winds its way up the mountain pass, travelers are treated to stunning panoramic views that showcase the raw beauty of the Yukon wilderness.

Some of the highlights along the way include:

  1. Towering snow-capped peaks that stretch towards the sky
  2. Cascading waterfalls tumbling over rocky cliffs
  3. Pristine alpine lakes reflecting the surrounding mountains

These awe-inspiring sights make the journey to Skagway through the White Pass an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Skagway Highlights

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Skagway Highlights

Upon arrival in Skagway, visitors often find themselves captivated by the town’s vibrant atmosphere and well-preserved historical charm.

The colorful main street, lined with wooden storefronts and saloons, transports travelers back to the Klondike Gold Rush era, offering ample opportunities to explore local restaurants, cafes, and unique artisan shops.

Visitors can peruse the shelves of jewelers and souvenir shops, discovering one-of-a-kind treasures.

The town’s history is on display at the Skagway Visitor Information Center, where guests can learn about the region’s past and its significance during the gold rush.

With its lively energy and picturesque setting, Skagway provides a delightful conclusion to the day-trip from Whitehorse.

Inclusions and Exclusions

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Inclusions and Exclusions

The day-trip to Skagway includes a range of services and amenities, though there are certain items visitors will need to cover separately. The inclusions feature a live tour guide, beverages, and snacks to keep you energized throughout the journey.

However, the tour doesn’t cover:

  • Gratuities for the tour guide
  • Personal expenses such as meals and souvenirs
  • The White Pass and Yukon Railroad Train Ride, unless the option is specifically selected

It’s important for travelers to be aware of these exclusions to ensure they budget appropriately and have a seamless and enjoyable day-trip experience exploring the highlights of Skagway.

Frequently Asked Questions

From Whitehorse: Skagway Day-Trip - Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Operator Licensed and Insured?

The tour operator is licensed and insured to ensure the safety and quality of the day-trip. They’re committed to providing a professional and reliable service for all travelers on the tour.

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

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, beverages and snacks are already provided as part of the tour package, so bringing additional items is optional.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any specific age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the day-trip. However, it’s recommended that parents monitor their children’s safety and behavior during the excursion.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 48 hours in advance. There may be partial refunds for shorter notice cancellations, but the specific policy should be checked with the tour operator.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

There is no mention of Wi-Fi availability on this tour. It’s likely there’s limited or no internet access during the day-trip, as the focus is on sightseeing in remote areas between Whitehorse and Skagway. Travelers should plan accordingly for their connectivity needs.

Recap

Set out on a captivating day-trip from Whitehorse to the historic town of Skagway, exploring the Yukon’s picturesque landscapes, Indigenous heritage, and the allure of the gold rush era.

Discover the vibrant green Emerald Lake, the unique Carcross Desert, and the breathtaking scenery of the White Pass before arriving in the charming town of Skagway, where you can learn about its rich history.

You can check availability for your dates here: