Scenic Drive into the Yukon – Skagway, Alaska

The Scenic Drive into the Yukon is one of the most breathtaking road trips in the region, taking you from Skagway’s coastal rainforest into a world of alpine lakes, glacier‑carved valleys, and sweeping tundra landscapes. This route follows the Klondike Highway, climbing past the White Pass summit and continuing into British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. The scenery changes dramatically every few miles, offering endless opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.

For cruise travelers, this drive is an easy, flexible way to experience the vast wilderness beyond Skagway. Whether you join a guided tour or rent a car, the journey can be tailored to your schedule, with stops at lakes, waterfalls, overlooks, and historic sites. It’s perfect for travelers who want big scenery without strenuous activity — and it pairs beautifully with a visit to Carcross or Emerald Lake.

Fun Facts

• The Klondike Highway follows the route used by stampeders during the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush.
• The drive crosses three regions: Alaska, British Columbia, and the Yukon Territory.
• The landscape shifts from coastal rainforest to subalpine terrain and finally to open Arctic tundra.
• Emerald Lake, a popular stop, is known for its brilliant turquoise color caused by glacial silt and light‑reflecting marl deposits.
• The highway passes through the Tormented Valley, a surreal landscape shaped by retreating glaciers.
• Wildlife sightings may include bears, mountain goats, foxes, and porcupines.
• Carcross, a small Yukon community, is home to the world’s smallest desert, the Carcross Desert.
• The road is open seasonally and maintained for safe summer travel.

What to Expect During Your Visit

The drive begins in Skagway and quickly climbs into the mountains, offering dramatic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and glacier‑carved valleys. After crossing the White Pass summit, the scenery opens into a rugged, windswept landscape dotted with lakes and granite outcrops. As you continue into British Columbia and the Yukon, the terrain becomes more expansive, with wide valleys, turquoise lakes, and rolling tundra.

Most travelers stop at key viewpoints such as the Welcome to Alaska sign, Bridal Veil Falls, the Tormented Valley, Summit Lake, Bove Island Lookout, Carcross, and Emerald Lake. Guided tours provide narration about Gold Rush history, geology, and wildlife, while self‑drivers enjoy the freedom to stop wherever the scenery inspires them. The full round‑trip experience typically takes 3–5 hours, depending on how far you go.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

The Scenic Drive into the Yukon is ideal for travelers who want a high‑reward adventure with minimal physical effort. The landscapes are incredibly diverse, the photo opportunities are endless, and the journey feels like stepping into another world. It’s perfect for families, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the vast wilderness beyond Skagway.

Where It’s Located

The drive begins in Skagway and follows the Klondike Highway (Highway 98) north toward British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Guided tour: The most popular option; pickup is typically at the cruise dock.
• Rental car: Available in Skagway; allows maximum flexibility.
• Taxi or private driver: Possible but must be arranged in advance.
• Distance: The Yukon border is about 45 minutes from Skagway; Emerald Lake is about 1.5 hours each way.

Best Time to Visit

• Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the best road conditions.
• Morning departures provide softer light and fewer crowds at viewpoints.
• Summer brings lush greenery and the best chance for wildlife sightings.
• Fall (September) offers stunning golden tundra colors.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring a passport — you’ll cross the Canadian border.
• Wear layers; temperatures vary dramatically with elevation.
• Charge your camera or phone fully — the photo stops are constant.
• If driving yourself, fuel up in Skagway; services are limited along the route.
• Stop at Carcross for shops, snacks, and cultural exhibits.
• Book guided tours early — this is one of Skagway’s most popular excursions.

Common Complaints

• Weather can be cloudy or foggy at higher elevations.
• Border crossings may add a few minutes to the trip.
• Some travelers wish for more time at Emerald Lake on guided tours.
• The drive may feel long for those who prefer active excursions.

Final Thoughts

The Scenic Drive into the Yukon is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have from Skagway, offering dramatic landscapes, wildlife viewing, and a fascinating look at Gold Rush history. It’s a flexible, high‑impact adventure that fits beautifully into a cruise‑day itinerary. For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do in Skagway.