Full Day Emerald Lake Tour with or without Huskies

If you’re planning a trip to Skagway, this full-day tour offers a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and local culture of the area. Offered by Skagway Yukon Custom Van Tours, this private excursion combines scenic views, engaging storytelling, and chances to see iconic animals like mountain goats and eagles — all led by a guide with over 30 years of knowledge about the South Klondike Highway.

It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that caters to travelers seeking authenticity, personal attention, and a true taste of the Yukon and Alaska wilderness.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the guide’s extensive local expertise and the opportunity for excellent wildlife sightings, thanks to top-notch spotting scopes and insider knowledge. We also love the flexibility of the experience, including optional husky encounters, which add a uniquely Yukon flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at $980 for a group of up to seven, it’s an investment — but one that many find well worth it considering the personalized service and memorable scenery.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who appreciate a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, want to see wildlife in its natural environment, and are comfortable with a full day of exploration.

It’s ideal for those craving a deeper, more authentic connection to the landscape rather than a cookie-cutter bus tour. If you’re looking for a day that balances adventure, education, and stunning vistas, this might be just the right fit.

This experience made our article of Skagway’s 4 Top Full-Day Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

• Expert Guide: Over 30 years of local experience, providing insightful commentary and photography tips.
• Wildlife Success: 99% success rate for spotting mountain goats and other animals, thanks to expert spotting and equipment.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes stops at Skagway’s historic downtown, Yukon Suspension Bridge, Carcross, and Emerald Lake, plus optional husky encounters.
• Authentic Experience: Short hikes and off-the-beaten-path views add depth beyond typical sightseeing.
• Private & Customizable: Only your group participates, allowing for tailored pacing and focus.
• Value for the Investment: A full seven-hour day packed with scenery, stories, and animals, all guided by a professional photographer.

A Detailed Review of the Full Day Experience

Starting in Skagway’s Historic Downtown

The tour begins in the heart of Skagway, where the charm of the Klondike Gold Rush era is still very much alive. The historic buildings and exhibits provide a glimpse of the town’s rich past, setting the tone for a journey into both history and wilderness. This initial 15-minute stop is a good warm-up and allows the guide to share stories that add context to the landscape we’re about to explore.

South Klondike Highway and White Pass

From Skagway, we climb over the White Pass, where the scenery becomes more spectacular with each turn. The highway itself is a marvel — winding, steep, and lined with towering mountains. Here, the guide’s analogy of calling it “my Office” really hits home; with over three decades of exploring every twist and turn, he knows where the best wildlife sightings happen, and he’s eager to share that knowledge.

Yukon Suspension Bridge

At about 25 miles north of Skagway, the Yukon Suspension Bridge offers an awe-inspiring view of the river valley below. It’s a well-managed spot with facilities like a cafeteria and gift shops, making it easy for travelers to stretch their legs and take photos. While the bridge cost ($11 per person) isn’t included, the view and the feeling of crossing a real suspension bridge over such dramatic terrain make it worthwhile for many.

Carcross: A Tlingit and Tagish Heritage Hub

Next, the small native village of Carcross introduces travelers to the deep indigenous roots of the area. The setting itself is picturesque, with a narrow channel between lakes and mountains. As one of the reviews notes, the guide loves sharing stories about the region, which makes the visit more meaningful. Visitors can enjoy a quick look around, soak in the scenery, and learn about the First Nations presence that predates the Gold Rush.

The Surprising Carcross Desert

While calling it a desert might seem strange in the Yukon, the Carcross Desert is actually a 50,000-year-old beach formed from the remnants of a glacial lake. It’s one of those unexpected sights — dunes of sand in a landscape that feels more like a desert than a forested wilderness. Just 10 minutes here, but enough to snap some fun photos and appreciate how diverse this region is.

Emerald Lake: The Tour’s Highlight and Turnaround

Located about 5 miles north of Carcross, Emerald Lake is the tour’s turnaround point. Its colors are striking — deep greens and blues reflecting off the shallow waters, creating an almost surreal scene. The guide frequently takes time to point out the best angles for photos and shares insights into the unique geology of the lake. Guests only spend about 10 minutes here, but that’s enough to breathe in the crisp air, snap photos, and marvel at the vibrant hues.

Wild Adventure Yukon and the Husky Camp

The final stop is at Wild Adventure Yukon (formerly Caribou Crossings), where visitors meet real professional sled dogs and mushers. For many, petting puppies and visiting the petting zoo is a highlight, especially for animal lovers. Guests can also explore the museum, which offers a deeper look into the life of sled dogs and the Yukon’s sledding history. The optional cost ($not included) is worth considering if you’re keen to get up close and personal with these incredible animals.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Several guests praise the guide, Tom, for his knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer notes he is “super knowledgeable, kind, helpful, and hilarious,” which makes the long day both enjoyable and informative. Others highlight the stunning scenery — from mountain goats and bears to eagle nests — and say that without the guide’s spotting skills, many of these sightings might have been missed.

A recurring theme is the value of the personalized, private nature of the tour. Guests appreciate the ability to customize their experience, take photos with expert help, and enjoy the scenery at their own pace. The combination of scenic stops, wildlife sightings, and cultural insights makes it a well-rounded option.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 7:30 am from the Skagway Cruise Terminal. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable, flexible journey, with bottled water, binoculars, and even pro photo tutoring provided. The small group size (up to 7 people) means a more intimate experience and the chance to ask questions or focus on specific interests.

The cost is $980 per group, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the personalized attention, expert guide, and multiple scenic stops, many travelers find it a good value, especially for a full-day experience that includes wildlife, culture, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the Yukon.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day excursion is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing and truly connect with the landscape and wildlife. If you appreciate expert guides with local knowledge, enjoy a personalized experience, and are keen on wildlife spotting, this tour offers remarkable value. It also suits those interested in photography, given the guide’s professional tips and the opportunity for stunning photos at iconic locations.

While the price isn’t cheap, the private nature of the tour, expert guidance, and access to spots rarely visited by larger groups make it a compelling choice for those looking for an authentic, memorable Alaskan and Yukon adventure. If your group enjoys a mix of scenery, wildlife, culture, and the chance to learn from someone who truly loves the area, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored experience.

What is the meeting point and start time? The tour begins at 7:30 am from the Skagway Cruise Terminal.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 7 hours, including multiple stops and sightseeing.

Are there any additional costs? The Yukon Suspension Bridge entrance fee ($11 per person) is not included but is optional.

Can I see wildlife on this tour? Yes, the guide has a 99% success rate for sightings, including mountain goats, bears, eagles, and more.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, camera, binoculars, and a sense of adventure.

Is it suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour involves some short hikes, weather permitting.

This tour offers a thorough, engaging way to experience the stunning scenery and wildlife-rich landscapes around Skagway, with the added bonus of expert insights. It’s the sort of experience that leaves you with lasting memories and plenty of stories to tell.