Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour

If you’re visiting Skagway, you’ll find that this tour offers a neat combination of natural beauty and a taste of local history. The Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour is a well-rounded experience that takes you on a 3-hour bus ride to some of the area’s most picturesque waterfalls, along with iconic Canadian border crossings and a few historic stops. It’s a tour that’s particularly appealing if you love nature, photography, and a dash of local lore but don’t want to spend the whole day on the move.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes the stunning waterfalls, especially Bridal Veil Falls, where you can feel the spray and get close enough to put your hands in the water. The second is the chance to cross into Canada at the Welcome to Alaska Sign, making it a fun and memorable photo op. A third plus is the engaging and knowledgeable guides who add context and stories to each stop, turning a simple sightseeing trip into something more informative. A potential downside? The three-hour duration means you might wish for a bit more time at each site, especially if you love to linger in nature. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, quick but memorable stops, and learning a little history along the way.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: The tour features Bridal Veil Falls and Pitch Fork Falls, offering excellent photo opportunities and close encounters with nature.
• Border Crossing: You’ll pass through the Welcome to Alaska Sign and cross into Canada, adding an international twist to your day.
• Informative Guides: Expect lively, knowledgeable commentary that makes each stop more meaningful.
• Historic Highlights: Learn about Skagway’s Gold Rush Cemetery and the new Captain William Moore Bridge.
• Accessible and Convenient: The tour is about 3 hours long and includes transportation from a centrally located meeting point.
• Cost-Effective: Priced at $83, it offers good value for those wanting a scenic overview without a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour from Southeast Tours provides a guided bus trip through some of Skagway’s most scenic spots, emphasizing waterfalls and historic sites. For $83 per person, you get around three hours of sightseeing, including stops at key viewpoints and opportunities for photos. The tour features informative commentary—guides share stories about the waterfalls, local history, and Skagway’s gold rush past—which makes the experience both enjoyable and educational.

The itinerary begins with Reid Falls, which you can choose to visit via a quick 10-minute rainforest hike through the Gold Rush Cemetery. We liked this option because it adds a bit of an adventure and a chance to see peaceful nature and historic graves. Then, you’ll move to Bridal Veil Falls, where the proximity allows you to feel the mist and even dip your hands in the water—a simple but memorable thrill.

Following that is Pitch Fork Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Southeast Alaska. It’s a striking sight, and the views from the bus make it a photo-worthy destination. You’ll also get a chance to snap a picture at the Welcome to Alaska Sign—a classic shot that every visitor treasures—and see the International Falls, right after crossing into Canada.

Crossing the Captain William Moore Bridge, a new pedestrian bridge opened in 2020, adds a modern touch to the tour, giving you a chance to appreciate local infrastructure. The tour concludes with a stop at the Skagway City Overlook, presenting panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.

The Waterfalls: More Than Just Pretty Pictures

The waterfalls are, of course, the stars of the show. Bridal Veil Falls, with its soothing spray and close-up access, offers more than just a view; it’s a sensory experience. The guide’s description of the falls’ geology and history adds depth, making it more than just a pretty sight.

Pitch Fork Falls, the second-largest in Southeast Alaska, towers impressively, offering a different type of scenic grandeur. Its name comes from its shape, resembling a pitchfork, which adds a playful element to sightseeing. The views from the bus and designated stops are excellent, and many travelers note that each waterfall surpasses the last in beauty.

A Border Crossing with a View

Crossing into Canada isn’t just a logistical step; it’s part of the adventure. The Welcome to Alaska Sign provides a unique photo opportunity, especially for those who enjoy collecting border-crossing memories. The International Falls further enhances this experience, giving a sense of stepping into a different country, even if just for a short while.

More Great Tours Nearby

History and Infrastructure

The inclusion of the Gold Rush Cemetery and the Captain William Moore Bridge emphasizes the tour’s blend of natural beauty and local history. The cemetery offers a glimpse into Skagway’s past, with stories of miners and gold prospectors. The new pedestrian bridge stands as a symbol of local development, offering a smooth crossing and modern engineering that travelers can appreciate.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

From reviews, it’s clear that guides are a highlight. As one traveler noted, their guide was “very friendly and knowledgeable,” willingly helping with photos and sharing interesting stories. The small group size means you get personalized attention and more chances to ask questions.

The tour’s timing and route make it ideal for those with limited time but who still want a taste of Skagway’s natural and historic attractions. The three-hour duration is manageable, especially after a morning or afternoon ship arrival, and the price feels reasonable given the scenery and expert commentary.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a quick, scenic overview without the fuss of a full-day tour. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate waterfalls, photos, and quick bursts of history. However, travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more immersive or extended experience might find it a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a price of $83, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour offers a solid blend of natural beauty, local history, and fun border-crossing moments. The well-rated guides and picturesque stops make it a worthwhile addition to your Skagway visit, especially if you’re short on time but want a varied experience.

While it’s not a lengthy or exhaustive exploration of the area, it hits many high points that will leave you with memorable photos and a deeper appreciation for Skagway’s landscape and history. Keep in mind, the stops are brief, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy quick scenic snapshots rather than long hikes or detailed exploration.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic ride with plenty of photo opportunities and a friendly guide, this tour is a strong choice. Just remember to bring your camera, dress for the weather, and have your passport handy for border crossing fun.

FAQs

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, passports are required for crossing into Canada during the tour, so be sure to bring yours along.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable option for those with limited time in port.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or a snack if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking or uneven terrain.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. The tour can be wet or cool, especially near waterfalls.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

To sum it up, the Skagway Scenic Waterfall Tour strikes a good balance between natural beauty, practical convenience, and historical storytelling. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview with excellent photo opportunities and engaging guides. While it doesn’t linger long at each site, the highlights are memorable enough to justify its value—just make sure you’re prepared for a short but sweet adventure through Skagway’s stunning landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby