So, you’ve heard chatter on Facebook groups that renting a car and driving in the Yukon is way better than any excursion you can book in Skagway?

I both agree and disagree with that. (I’m partial to a few excursions here in town.)

Many visitors to Skagway enjoy renting a car and driving into Canada because we are so close to the border. It’s a way to explore beyond the cruise port, escape the crowds, and experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

The drive along the Klondike Highway is an adventure in itself. You’ll cross the U.S.-Canada border, climb over White Pass, pass turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and mountainous landscapes, and have the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye. Whether you drive as far as Emerald Lake, Carcross, or Whitehorse, it’s one of the most memorable day trips you can take from Skagway!

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know before you go, including where to rent a car, what documents you’ll need to cross the border, the best stops along the way, and tips to help you make the most of your day in the Yukon.

Why Renting a Car Is One of the Best Things to Do in Skagway

While the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is famous for a reason, renting a car gives you something no tour can: complete freedom.

Instead of following someone else’s schedule, you decide where to stop, how long to stay, and whether to keep driving.

Some of the biggest advantages include:

Exploring at your own pace
Stopping whenever you see wildlife
Spending extra time taking photos
Visiting places most tours skip
Avoid crowded buses

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, this is easily one of the best day trips you can take from Skagway!

Can You Drive Into Canada from Skagway?

Yes! The Klondike Highway leaves Skagway, crosses into British Columbia, and continues into Canada’s Yukon Territory.

Before you go, make sure you have:

A valid passport (required to enter Canada and return to the U.S.)
Your driver’s license
Permission from your rental car company to cross the border (most allow it here, but always confirm beforehand)

Both border crossings aren’t always busy, but always budget extra time in your day in case there’s a line.

A few things to keep in mind:

Your cell phone may switch to Canadian roaming.
Always download offline maps before leaving Skagway.
If you are traveling during daylight saving time, you’ll gain one hour entering the Yukon and lose it again when returning to Alaska.

How Long Does the Drive Take?

Driving times are surprisingly short, but don’t let that fool you – you’ll probably stop dozens of times for photos!

Approximate drive times (without stops):

Destination	Drive Time
White Pass Summit	15-20 minutes
Fraser	35 minutes
Carcross	1 hour 25 minutes
Emerald Lake	1 hour 30 minutes
Whitehorse	About 2 hours

Most visitors spend six to eight hours exploring before returning to Skagway.

Best Stops Along the Way

Welcome to Alaska Sign

This is one of the last stops before reaching Canada and makes a fun photo opportunity on your return trip.

White Pass Summit

One of the highlights of the drive.

The road climbs nearly 3,300 feet above sea level through rugged mountain scenery that looks completely different from the lush forests below.

Even during summer, it’s not unusual to see snow lingering on nearby peaks.

There are numerous pullouts where you can safely stop for photos.

Canadian Customs & Fraser

You’ll pass through Canadian Customs shortly after crossing White Pass.

Have your passport ready and answer the officer’s questions honestly. Most visitors are through in just a few minutes!

Tutshi Lake

This beautiful lake offers several scenic viewpoints along the highway! On calm days, the mountains reflect beautifully across the water.

The Yukon Sign

Just a few minutes after crossing into the Yukon, you’ll come across the iconic Welcome to Yukon sign. They recently changed the Yukon sign a few years ago! It’s one of the most popular photo stops along the drive and a must for first-time visitors.

There’s a small pullout where you can safely park, making it an easy place to stretch your legs and snap a quick picture before continuing toward Carcross or Emerald Lake.

If you’re visiting during peak cruise season, don’t be surprised if there’s a short line of people waiting for their turn with the sign. The scenery around it is beautiful too, so it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to soak it all in before getting back on the road. We frequently see goats up on the mountain across from the sign!

Bove Island Viewpoint

One of the lesser-known photography stops along the drive. If you’re looking for a quieter place to enjoy the scenery, don’t skip this one.

Carcross Desert

Known as the world’s smallest desert, the Carcross Desert is a fun and unexpected stop! Who would’ve thought there was a desert in Canada?!

The sand dunes formed from old glacial lake deposits and make for some unique photos.

Carcross

Carcross is one of my favorite stops on the drive.

This small Yukon village is full of colorful buildings, Indigenous history, local shops, and excellent coffee.

Take time to stroll the boardwalk, visit the visitor center, browse local art, or grab lunch before continuing.

Emerald Lake

If you’ve seen photos of this drive online, chances are you’ve already seen Emerald Lake! Its brilliant green water comes from glacial minerals suspended in the lake.

Midday often brings out the brightest color, especially on sunny days. Plan to spend a little extra time here as it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in the Yukon. 😍

Whitehorse

If your cruise schedule allows enough time, you can continue to Whitehorse. Just remember to leave plenty of time for the drive back to Skagway!

In Whitehorse you’ll find:

Museums
Restaurants
Grocery stores
Local breweries
Shopping

Wildlife You Might See

Spotting wildlife is one of my favorite things to do on this trip! Keep your eyes open throughout the drive.

You may see:

Black bears
Mountain goats
Caribou
Moose
Foxes
Bald eagles
Rabbits

If you spot wildlife:

Stay inside your vehicle!
Never feed the animals.
Use binoculars or a zoom lens instead of approaching.

What to Pack

Weather changes quickly in the mountains, even during summer.

I recommend bringing:

Passport
Driver’s license
Light rain jacket
Snacks
Water
Phone charger
Sunglasses
Offline maps downloaded to your phone

Bear spray isn’t necessary unless you plan on doing longer hikes away from the road.

Road Conditions

The Klondike Highway is fully paved and generally easy to drive.

That said, there are a few things to know:

Expect steep grades climbing White Pass just outside of Skagway.
Fog can reduce visibility quickly; be weather aware.
Construction is common during the short northern summer season in both Alaska, British Columbia and Yukon sections of the highway.
Wildlife frequently crosses the highway.
Speed signs change from MPH to KM during the drive.

Always drive the speed limit, especially around corners, and don’t stop in the roadway for photos unless there are pull-off spots.

Fuel

Always start with a full tank in Skagway. Fuel is available in Skagway, Carcross and Whitehorse. Even though the distances aren’t huge, it’s a good habit not to let your fuel level get too low!

Is Whitehorse Worth It?

It depends on how much time you have.

Go to Whitehorse if:

You’re spending a full day exploring.
You enjoy museums, restaurants, and small cities.
Your ship has a long port day.

Skip Whitehorse if:

You have less than eight hours ashore.
You’d rather spend more time enjoying scenic stops.
Emerald Lake is your main goal.

For most cruise visitors, Emerald Lake is the perfect turnaround point. We have made that drive when we just wanted to get out of town (hence all the above photos 🙂).

Sample Itineraries

4-5 Hours

White Pass Summit
Fraser
Carcross
Emerald Lake
Return

This is what I’d recommend for most visitors.

Full-Day Adventure

White Pass Summit
Fraser
Carcross
Emerald Lake
Whitehorse
Return to Skagway

Ideal if your cruise schedule gives you plenty of time.

Tips for Cruise Passengers

A little planning goes a long way.

Reserve your rental car as early as possible; rentals fill up quickly!
Consider renting a car through Turo instead of a traditional rental company.
Double-check your pickup time.
Bring your passport.
Confirm your rental company allows border crossings.
Watch the time carefully and leave yourself plenty of time to return before all aboard.
Check road conditions if you’re visiting early or late in the season – either one can mean snowy conditions up on the Pass.

Remember that your ship won’t wait if you’re delayed!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cruise passengers drive into Canada?

Yes, as long as you have a valid passport and your rental company allows border crossings.

Do I need a passport?

Yes. A passport is required to enter Canada and return to the United States.

Is the road scary?

Most visitors find it to be an easy drive. The highway is paved, well maintained, and has plenty of pullouts. That said, it can be bumpy at times and there are some points where you are close to the edge of the mountains.

Is there cell service?

Service is incredibly spotty after leaving Skagway. Download offline maps before you go. You will likely not have signal again until you reach Carcross.

Can I visit Emerald Lake in one day?

Absolutely. Emerald Lake is one of the most popular destinations for a self-guided day trip from Skagway!

Do rental companies allow border crossings?

Most do, but always verify before booking.

Can I stop anywhere?

There are many designated pullouts and viewpoints along the highway. Always use these instead of stopping in the middle of the road. There are a lot of hills, curves, and some slide/avalanche zones. Always be mindful of road signs along the road!

Final Thoughts

If you love scenic drives, flexibility, and discovering places at your own pace, renting a car and driving from Skagway into the Yukon is absolutely worth it.

From the dramatic cliffs of White Pass to the turquoise waters of Emerald Lake, this route showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in all of North America. Whether you drive for a few hours or spend the entire day exploring, it’s an unforgettable adventure that lets you experience the Yukon Territory on your own schedule!

The Yukon