Yukon: Self-Drive Day Trip with Audio Guide & Carcross

Summary

Drive Yukon’s wild highways to Carcross desert lakes & mountain views

You’ll set your own rhythm on this Yukon day trip—windows down, narrated stories guiding you past waterfalls and wild valleys toward Carcross village. Sip coffee by Lake Bennett, walk barefoot in Canada’s smallest desert, then pause at Emerald Lake’s unreal colors before heading back with your own playlist of memories.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to slow down here—moose sometimes cross early,” the guy at the rental place said, handing over the keys and a battered binder. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a DIY Yukon tour, honestly. The morning felt sharp and clean as we rolled out of Skagway, windows cracked just enough for that piney air. The audio guide kicked in right away—some local voice telling stories about gold rush towns and old train lines. It was weirdly comforting, having someone in my ear while the road stretched ahead all empty and open.

The White Pass snuck up on us—one minute it’s forest, next it’s sudden cliffs and those waterfalls that seem to appear out of nowhere. We pulled over more than once, not because we had to but because it felt wrong not to. There was this one overlook where the wind just cut through everything; I could smell wet stone and something almost metallic in the air. Crossing into Canada was surprisingly chill (don’t forget your passport though), and then suddenly we were winding along the Klondike Highway, half-hoping for wildlife but mostly just soaking up those impossible blue lakes.

Carcross is small but lively—kids darting around, a couple of shops with bright murals, coffee that tasted like someone actually cared about it. I tried to pronounce “Tagish” right; Li behind the counter grinned but didn’t correct me. We wandered out to the Carcross Desert after—sand everywhere, totally unexpected in this part of the world. My shoes are still full of it. And then Emerald Lake—honestly? It looked fake at first, that green so clear under the clouds. We sat on a log for a while without talking much; sometimes you don’t need words when you’re staring at water like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Drive Yukon route and visit landmarks

• Drive through historic town
• Stop for snack or shopping
• Visit a museum
• Drive White Pass, see waterfalls
• Enter Canada, drive Klondike Highway
• Watch for wildlife and mountain views
• Visit Carcross village and Lake Bennett
• Have coffee or shop at Carcross Commons
• Walk Carcross Desert sand dunes
• Visit Emerald Lake turnaround point

Top questions

Do I need a passport for this Yukon self-drive tour?

Yes, you must bring a valid passport since you'll cross into Canada during the drive.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is provided; you start from the rental location in Skagway.

Can I bring kids or infants on this tour?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Is this day trip suitable for wheelchair users?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What vehicle is used for the tour?

You’ll drive a Jeep Wrangler equipped with GPS-coordinated iPad and an audio guide binder.

How far is Emerald Lake from Carcross?

Emerald Lake is about 10 miles outside of Carcross along the recommended route.

Is insurance required for driving?

You must provide proof of US or Canadian auto insurance covering rentals or purchase onsite coverage for $50 if needed.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point in Skagway.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Jeep Wrangler for up to five people with GPS-coordinated iPad narration, Alaska Murrays Guide Binder packed with local stories, all taxes and fees handled up front—and plenty of time to stop anywhere between Skagway and Emerald Lake before returning when you’re ready.