Skagway Shore Excursion: Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Tour

The Skagway Shore Excursion: Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Tour offers an engaging day out for cruise visitors looking to experience Alaska’s natural beauty and unique dog-mushing culture. Priced at $229 per person and lasting approximately 6 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the Yukon’s landscape, wildlife, and sled dog training camps. It departs from Yukon Heath’s Popcorn Emporium at 9 am and returns to Skagway around 4:30 pm. The tour features small buses accommodating up to 32 travelers, guided commentary, and all logistics taken care of, including lunch, entrance fees, and admission tickets.

While the overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 from 93 reviews reflects strong satisfaction, potential participants should note some travelers found the ride lengthy and the dog-sledding experience somewhat rushed or in a motorized buggy rather than traditional sleds. This tour suits those eager to see scenic highlights, meet sled dogs, and enjoy a full, well-organized day away from the port. It’s especially appealing for animal lovers and those wanting a hassle-free adventure with included meals and activities.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $229 for around 6 hours, this tour balances sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and dog sledding.
• Departure Point: Starts at Yukon Heath’s Popcorn Emporium in Skagway at 9 am.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch (chicken or vegetarian), entrance to wildlife museum, petting farm, and the dog-sledding session are included.
• Scenic Stops: Highlights include Capt Moore’s Suspension Bridge, Emerald Lake, and the “Welcome to Alaska” sign at White Pass.
• Dog-Sledding Adventure: Features a 15-minute mushing experience at a training camp, with opportunities to play with puppies.
• Small Group Size: Buses hold up to 32 travelers, with live commentary from a professional driver-guide.
• Weather Preparedness: Tours operate in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers is recommended.
• Passport Requirement: A valid passport or passport card is mandatory for re-entry to the U.S. from Canada.

Starting Point at Yukon Heath’s Popcorn Emporium

This tour begins at 216 Broadway, Skagway, with a departure time of 10:30 am. It’s essential to arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure smooth check-in and boarding. The meeting point is near public transportation and offers easy access for cruise passengers. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, maintaining a more intimate experience.

Participants should remember to bring passports, as they are required for crossing into Canada and re-entering the U.S. The tour includes commentary and narration from the driver-guide, who shares insights about the landscape, local history, and sled dog culture.

Exploring the Stops: From Fjords to the White Pass

The tour visits Capt Moore’s Suspension Bridge, where stunning views of the fjord below are a highlight. This spot showcases the rugged beauty of the Yukon’s terrain, perfect for photos and appreciating Alaska’s dramatic landscapes.

Next, travelers stop at Tutshi High, a scenic location offering panoramic vistas and photo opportunities. The journey continues to Caribou Crossing, home to the Iditarod training camp, where visitors spend about an hour. This stop includes admission to the wildlife museum, petting farm, and puppies, making it a favorite for animal lovers. The camp is especially notable for the 15-minute dog-sledding session, where visitors get a taste of mushing—and enjoy playing with playful puppies afterward.

The scenic drive also features a visit to Emerald Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the Yukon. Its vibrant color and tranquil surroundings make it a must-see stop.

Finally, the tour stops at the “Welcome to Alaska” sign, perched at White Pass with sweeping views over the border into Canada. This spot offers breathtaking scenery and a perfect photo op to mark the crossing from the Yukon into Alaska.

The All-Inclusive Lunch and Food Options

Lunch is included in the tour price, with two choices: chicken or vegetarian options. The meal comes with coffee, tea, or water. Based on reviews, the food is generally appreciated, and the vegetarian option ensures dietary preferences are accommodated. The meal is served at the camp or designated stop, giving travelers a chance to relax and refuel before the last part of the day.

Dog-Sledding and Puppy Encounters in Yukon

The dog-sledding session is a key feature of this tour. It takes place at the Caribou Crossing Iditarod Training Camp, where visitors experience a 15-minute mushing adventure. Although some reviews mention the ride is in a motorized buggy rather than a traditional sled, the experience still offers excitement and an up-close look at sled dogs in training.

Participants also enjoy playing with puppies, which are lively, friendly, and available for interaction. Many reviews highlight the joy of meeting the dogs, with some wishing for more time or the chance to adopt a puppy. The staff at the camp are friendly and answer questions, making the experience both fun and informative.

Scenic Drive and Viewing Highlights

The drive to and from Yukon is praised for its beautiful scenery and informative commentary. Stops are well-placed to allow photography and sightseeing, with guides providing details on landmarks and local history. The trip includes stunning vistas of fjords, lakes, and mountain passes, making it a visual feast despite the lengthy journey.

Some travelers note that the ride can be uncomfortable, especially if the vehicle’s heater isn’t properly managed or if the ride feels lengthy. Still, the views and stops generally compensate for these minor issues.

The Guide and Group Experience

The professional driver-guide is a highlight for many, with Kenton and Eric earning praise for their knowledge, humor, and helpfulness. They explain the sites and the culture of sled dogs clearly, making the experience engaging and accessible for all.

Group sizes are small enough to foster interaction, and the live commentary ensures everyone stays informed. The limited group size also helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for photo opportunities and questions.

Weather and Clothing Recommendations

Because tours operate in all weather conditions, travelers should prepare for rain, cold, or sunshine by dressing in layers. The Yukon’s climate can change rapidly, so packing waterproof gear, warm clothing, and sturdy shoes is advisable. This ensures comfort regardless of weather fluctuations.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

The included meals, admissions, and activities make this tour a good value compared to similar options, especially considering the cost of the cruise line excursions. Some reviews mention that the dog-sledding ride was shorter or in a motorized buggy, which could be seen as a drawback, but the overall experience remains positive, with many guests expressing willingness to do it again.

This tour excels for animal lovers, scenic enthusiasts, and those seeking a hassle-free day with impressive views, engaging stops, and a taste of Yukon culture. It’s particularly recommended for travelers who appreciate guided commentary, photo opportunities, and animal interactions.

Final Thoughts on the Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Tour

The Skagway Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Tour offers a well-rounded day filled with stunning scenery, engaging stops, and the thrill of meeting sled dogs. It provides all logistics, meals, and admissions, making it a convenient choice for cruise passengers.

While some may find the dog-sledding segment brief or in a motorized vehicle, the overall value, scenic drive, and friendly guides make this tour a popular pick. It’s best suited for adventure seekers who want a mix of outdoor fun and cultural insight in a manageable, organized package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, a valid passport or passport card is required because the tour crosses the U.S.-Canada border.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch (chicken or vegetarian), admission to the wildlife museum and petting farm, a dog-sledding session, and guided commentary.

How long is the drive each way?
The trip involves approximately 1.5 hours each way, with stops along the way for sightseeing.

Can I hold the puppies?
Guests can play with the puppies at the training camp, but may not always have the opportunity to hold them depending on the schedule and camp policies.

Is the dog-sledding experience authentic?
The 15-minute mushing adventure is at a training camp. Some reviews mention the ride is in a motorized buggy rather than a traditional sled, which may influence expectations.

What should I wear?
Dressing in layers is recommended, as the weather can vary greatly and the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children 18 and under only need a birth certificate, but physical fitness is required to participate fully.

What are the group sizes?
Buses hold up to 32 travelers, fostering a small-group experience.

Is food available for special diets?
A vegetarian lunch option is available; inform the guide before departure.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Tru North Enterprises, LLC DBA Southeast Tours.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for animal lovers, scenic sightseeing, and those seeking an organized, all-inclusive Yukon adventure during a cruise stop.