Whitehorse to Skagway Day Trip — White Pass, Emerald Lake & Carcross Desert | other | wildlife

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Whitehorse to Skagway Day Trip — White Pass, Emerald Lake & Carcross Desert | other | wildlife | city-tour

Read the full experience

You pull away from Whitehorse before the first light warms the Yukon horizon and the road becomes a ribbon of stone and alpine air through the scarred shoulders of White Pass.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

9–10 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels: mostly seated travel with short moderate walks; be prepared for standing and light walking on uneven surfaces.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a passport for this tour?

Yes. The itinerary crosses the Canada–U.S. border; all passengers must carry valid passports and be prepared for customs checks.

How long is the driving portion each way?

Expect roughly 3–3.5 hours of driving each way between Whitehorse and Skagway, with stops for photos and short walks factored into a 9–10 hour day.

Is there time to explore Skagway independently?

Yes. The tour includes about two hours in Skagway to walk the historic downtown, visit the Gold Rush Cemetery, and see Lower Reid Falls.

Are any attractions closed seasonally?

Some sites and local businesses may operate on limited hours outside summer months; check seasonal availability before booking.

Local insights

Wildlife

Dall sheep often on higher rocky slopes
Bald eagles near coastal inlets and river mouths

History

This route follows veins of the Klondike Gold Rush era; Skagway served as the coastal gateway while prospectors funneled over White Pass toward the Yukon goldfields.

Conservation

Stick to designated parking and walking areas, pack out trash, and respect local Indigenous sites and private property—heavy visitation can strain fragile alpine and desert microenvironments.

About EPIC NORTH Tour Experiences

EPIC NORTH Tour Experiences operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationSkagway, Alaska

Tours offered4+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring your passportThis tour crosses an international border—carry a valid passport and any required documentation for U.S. entry.

Dress in layersWeather over White Pass can change rapidly—pack a windproof midlayer and a lightweight rain shell.

Comfortable shoes for short hikesShort walks at Emerald Lake, Carcross Desert and Lower Reid Falls involve uneven terrain—supportive footwear helps.

Plan for a long dayThe tour is 9–10 hours with multiple stops; bring snacks, water, and any personal medications.

Recommended gear

Sturdy walking shoes: Support and traction for short walks on rocky or sandy surfaces.
Layered clothing: Insulating midlayer and a light fleece for rapidly changing temperatures over the pass.
Waterproof rain jacket: Light, breathable shell to stay dry during coastal rain or pass squalls.
Refillable water bottle: Hydration for a long day of travel and short hikes; water sources are limited at stops.