Skagway: Klondike Highway & Yukon Bus Tour with Husky Kennel

Taking a trip from Skagway into the Yukon offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, historical insights, and unique wildlife encounters. This 5.5-hour guided bus tour promises a scenic ride along the legendary Klondike Highway, crossing the Yukon Suspension Bridge, and ending with a fun meet-and-greet with sled dogs. It’s an experience that combines adventure, photo opportunities, and a taste of Alaska and Canada’s rugged wilderness—all without the hassle of planning your own route.

One of the standout features we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural vistas with engaging activities like visiting a husky kennel. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off directly from the cruise ship makes it easy to fit into your day.

However, a key consideration is that this tour involves crossing an international border, meaning you’ll need your passport in hand—no copies or alternative IDs accepted. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and a touch of history, especially if you’re keen to see the famous White Pass Railroad route or meet sled dogs in action.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: The tour follows the historic Klondike Highway, offering stunning views of waterfalls, glaciers, and mountains.
• Wildlife & Wildlife Viewing: The Yukon Suspension Bridge and surrounding wilderness are great for animal sightings and photography.
• Cultural & Historical Insight: Stops include the Outdoor Interpretive Museum and the stories of the Gold Rush era.
• Unique Activity: Meet sled dogs and puppies at the Tagish Lake Kennel, with optional sled rides.
• Convenience & Comfort: Pickup and drop-off at the cruise dock simplifies logistics.
• Passport Required: Entry into Canada means travelers need proper documentation.

The Route and Attractions in Detail

Starting Point in Skagway

Your adventure begins right at the cruise ship dock in Skagway, where a friendly representative from Skagway Tours will meet you with a bright red sign reading “SKAGWAY TOURS.” From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable, spacious bus—crucial for a smooth journey through some of North America’s most scenic terrain. Expect to be surrounded by other travelers eager for the same adventure but also appreciate the intimacy and relaxed pace of a guided tour.

The White Pass Summit

The first major stop is the White Pass Summit, a historic site that played a vital role during the Klondike Gold Rush. Here, you’ll get a quick 15-minute photo stop and a guided tour of the area, which is rich in stories and scenic beauty. As one reviewer noted, the route closely follows the famous White Pass & Yukon Route railroad, providing excellent photo ops of the train chugging through the mountains.

Crossing into Canada at Fraser, British Columbia

Driving into British Columbia adds a layer of adventure—your guide will help you navigate border crossings, so keep your passports handy. Fraser offers a brief 20-minute stop for photos and scenic views, giving you time to stretch your legs and take some shots of the lush wilderness. Remember, this is a border crossing, so be prepared for possible customs procedures, though delays are usually minimal.

Yukon Suspension Bridge

The highlight for many is the 200-foot-long Yukon Suspension Bridge. Nestled in the remote wilderness, the bridge over Tutshi River offers panoramic views of rapids, waterfalls, and wildlife. The 45-minute stop includes time for a self-guided walk, taking in the sights and snapping photos of the roaring rapids below. Reviewers emphasize the solid construction and the breathtaking scenery—many found it to be a “great photo opportunity” and a memorable part of the trip.

Sled Dog Farm at Tutshi

The final activity is a visit to the Tagish Lake Sleddog Tours. Here, you’re introduced to the history of sled dogs in the region, with plenty of opportunities to meet puppies and watch dogs in action. Some travelers even opt for sled rides, which cost around $40 per person. One review describes the visit as “fun and educational,” especially enjoyed by those interested in dog sports like the Iditarod or Yukon Quest.

Return to Skagway

After the kennel visit, you’ll hop back onto the bus for the return trip, passing through scenic areas like the Tormented Valley and Summit Lake. The entire experience, including all stops, lasts approximately 5.5 hours. Keep in mind that the trip may run a bit longer—one reviewer noted it took about an hour more than expected, so plan accordingly if you have a tight cruise schedule.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to nature lovers, history buffs, and animal enthusiasts alike. The combination of scenic drives, wildlife observation, and interaction with sled dogs creates a sense of authenticity that many tours lack. The guided commentary enriches each stop, providing context and stories that bring the landscape and history to life.

The scenic drives alone are worth the price, especially if you’re a fan of mountain vistas and waterfalls. The Yukon Suspension Bridge stands out as a thrilling photo spot, with the roaring rapids below providing a dramatic backdrop. The visit to the husky kennel allows for hands-on interaction—playing with puppies and meeting mushers adds a fun, personal touch that many travelers find memorable.

The Guide and Logistics

Our reviews highlight guides like Chelcie, who are friendly, informative, and quick to handle any hiccups—like the bus engine trouble that was quickly sorted out. The small group size and organized schedule help maximize sightseeing opportunities without feeling rushed.

Price and Value

At $164 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the inclusions: transportation, guide, entry to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, and the kennel visit. While food and drinks are not included, the stops at scenic spots allow for quick snacks and souvenirs, which can be purchased at each location. Many reviews mention the tour’s generous number of stops and flexibility, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive Yukon experience without the hassle of self-driving.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters, and a touch of history. It’s ideal for cruise passengers wanting a structured, all-in-one day trip with minimal planning. Families with children will enjoy the puppy playtime, but those with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. If you’re keen on photo opportunities, love dogs, and want a manageable, scenic journey into the Yukon, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Skagway: Klondike Highway & Yukon Bus Tour with Husky Kennel delivers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun activities. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and authentic dog sledding experience make it a compelling choice for many travelers. While there are logistical considerations like border crossing documentation and the potential for slight delays, the overall experience offers immense value for the price.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines natural splendor with engaging encounters, this tour will leave you with plenty of memorable moments, photos, and stories to tell. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to see the Yukon’s wild side with a comfortable, guided approach.

FAQs

Do I need my passport for this tour?
Yes, you must bring your passport as the tour crosses into Canada, and copies are not accepted. Ensure it’s valid for international travel.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including travel, stops, and activities.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might find opportunities to purchase snacks at stops or bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy meeting the puppies and seeing the scenery, but note that the tour isn’t accessible for mobility-impaired guests.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers for variable weather; waterproof clothing is recommended if rain is forecast, and sturdy shoes for walking the suspension bridge.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Availability varies, so check ahead. The tour is popular, especially in peak season, so booking in advance is advisable.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
Many say the Yukon Suspension Bridge and the chance to play with sled dog puppies are the most memorable parts.

How much does the sled dog ride cost?
Sled rides are approximately $40 per person but are optional. Watching the dogs in action is included in the visit.

In summary, the Skagway: Klondike Highway & Yukon Bus Tour with Husky Kennel offers a carefully curated taste of Yukon’s stunning scenery, historical significance, and wildlife, all wrapped into a manageable half-day adventure. Perfect for those wanting a mix of sightseeing and authentic wildlife encounters, it’s a route that leaves many travelers eager to explore more of this wild, remote corner of North America.