If you’re looking for a way to see some of the best natural scenery Skagway has to offer without hiking for hours, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour might just be your best bet. This three-hour bus adventure whisks you through lush landscapes, past shimmering waterfalls, and over the border into Canada—all with a friendly guide sharing stories and insights along the way.
What makes this tour appealing? First, you get close enough to waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls to feel the mist—an experience that feels both invigorating and memorable. Second, the tour includes a visit to the Welcome to Alaska Sign, perfect for a picture to frame your trip.
But a slight caveat is that this experience is primarily outdoors and on a bus, so if you prefer strenuous hikes or in-depth history, it might not satisfy every curiosity.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy easygoing excursions with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views, especially those who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a relaxed, visually stunning overview of Skagway’s natural beauty.
Key Points
- Comfortable, scenic bus ride with informative commentary
- Close-up views of waterfalls like Bridal Veil and Pitch Fork Falls
- Photo stops at iconic sites including the Welcome to Alaska Sign
- Optional rainforest hike to Reid Falls in the Gold Rush Cemetery
- Cross into Canada and see the International Falls
- Modern pedestrian bridge crossing added in 2020 for easy access
- Affordable price considering the scenic value and guided experience
- Suitable for travelers with moderate mobility—less so for those with physical limitations
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What to Expect from the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour
We’ll start with a short walk to the tour meeting point at the Richter’s Souvenir and Popcorn store, about a 10-minute stroll from the cruise ships. Once inside, you’ll meet your guide, who will give a brief overview of the tour, including safety tips and a quick outline of the stops ahead.
The journey kicks off with a drive to Reid Falls, located within the Gold Rush Cemetery — a spot that combines natural beauty with a hint of local history. Here, you’ll have the option to hike for about 10 minutes through rainforests to reach the falls, which adds a bit of adventure for those who like to stretch their legs. The guide will share stories about Skagway’s gold rush past while you soak in the verdant surroundings.
Next, you’ll visit Bridal Veil Falls. This is one of the highlights, especially because you can get close enough to feel the spray and reach out to touch the rushing water. Many reviewers mention how memorable it is to put your hands in the water or to stand breathless at the viewing platform while the mist surrounds you.
From there, the tour heads to Pitch Fork Falls. Known as the second-largest waterfall in Southeast Alaska, it offers a dramatic cascade that looks perfect for photographs. The guide will explain its formation and significance, adding context to the natural spectacle.
Crossing the border into Canada is a key part of the experience. You’ll make a quick stop at the Welcome to Alaska Sign for a classic photo op, then continue to International Falls just over the border. Here, the landscape changes subtly, and you can appreciate the vastness of the region.
A noteworthy feature is the Captain William Moore Bridge, a newer pedestrian walkway that opened in 2020. It’s a modern addition that allows easier access to scenic views and a unique photo opportunity, especially for those interested in infrastructure or just wanting a different perspective on the river below.
Finally, the tour concludes at the Skagway City Overlook, offering one last panoramic view of the town and surrounding mountains—an excellent way to wrap up your three-hour journey.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Skagway.
The Guide and Commentary
One aspect travelers consistently praise is the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Reviews mention guides who are eager to share facts, stories, and personal insights, making the experience more engaging than just a bus ride. For example, one traveler from Australia described their driver Clay as “incredible” with “informative and very interesting” commentary, noting how each waterfall surpassed the last in beauty.
The commentary enhances the natural sights with background stories, often touching on Skagway’s gold rush history, local flora, and the region’s geology. This adds depth to what might otherwise be just pretty views, making the tour both scenic and educational.
Value and Practical Considerations
At $83 per person for a 3-hour guided tour, the cost is reasonable, considering the scenic stops and the convenience of transportation. You won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding parking at each waterfall. For many, the guided nature means you get a lot of information without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple stops.
However, keep in mind that meals and drinks are not included, so bring a water bottle or snack if you’d like. Also, since the tour involves some outdoor walking, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must—especially in unpredictable Alaskan weather.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. It’s mainly designed for those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor environments.
The Experience from Past Travelers
Many reviews echo the sentiment that this tour offers stunning, memorable views. One traveler from the United States rated it a perfect five stars, calling it the “best tour we went on,” highlighting the friendly guides and affordable price. Another reviewer appreciated the spectacular photos taken during the stops, especially of the waterfalls, noting that each falls was “more beautiful than the last.”
The combination of scenery, informative guides, and the opportunity to cross into Canada makes this tour appealing for those wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience. Some mention the optional rainforest hike as a nice bonus, giving a taste of adventure without a strenuous commitment.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour offers a relaxed, scenic exploration suitable for a broad range of travelers—families, first-timers, or anyone craving stunning nature without heavy exertion. If you love the idea of close-up waterfall views, easy transportation, and engaging stories from knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the mark.
It’s especially good if you want a cost-effective, comfortable way to see some of Skagway’s natural highlights without the need for long hikes or complicated planning. The border crossing and the chance to photograph iconic landmarks like the Welcome to Alaska Sign add a fun and memorable element to the experience.
However, if you seek deep historical exploration, strenuous hikes, or have mobility limitations, you might find this tour a bit limiting. Still, for those content with scenic vistas and easy comfort, it’s a solid choice.
Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with bus rides and outdoor scenery. The stops are relatively short, making it manageable for families.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, passports are required for crossing the border into Canada, so bring yours along.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not part of the tour, so plan to bring a snack or water.
How long does the tour last?
It runs about 3 hours, usually in the morning or afternoon.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors frequently.
Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, it’s best to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Some stops might be wetter than others.
Is the guide local?
Yes, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing local insights and stories.
What makes this tour unique?
The combination of waterfalls, border crossing, and the modern pedestrian bridge, along with professional commentary, creates an engaging and scenic experience.
To sum it up, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour offers an accessible, picturesque, and informative way to experience some of Southeast Alaska’s most beautiful waterfalls and landscapes. Its friendly guides, convenient stops, and reasonable price make it a worthwhile option for a broad spectrum of travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure.
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