chocochoux Posted September 1, 2016 #1 Share Posted September 1, 2016 Hi all! Excited for our first Alaskan cruise, especially after all of the research I've done, but I'm torn over shore excursions in Skagway. We're going to be in port from 7 am to 8:30 pm on Sep 22, so I know we'll have lots of time to wander around town, but my parents (early 60's) and sister (late 20's) aren't really interested in sitting down for hours on the White Pass Railway. If possible I'd like if we could do something adventurous and outdoorsy that's also unique to Skagway/Alaska. These are the options I'm considering and my reservations with each: Glacier dogsledding with TEMSCO - obviously the most expensive, maybe a little contrived? and I'm really only interested in the dogsledding (on ice) rather than the included helicopter ride. As such, is it worth the money for a 20-25 minute ride? Also, is it generally even available so late in the season? Glacier Point Wilderness Safari - I really like the idea of seeing native wildlife (esp bears, seals and whales!) as well as getting a close up look at a glacier, but from what I've heard, it's mostly a sightseeing tour and not quite as active as the description makes it out to be. I think I'd like it more if there was more hiking on the glacier. Short Glacier Trek by Helicopter - Focusing on experiencing the glacier itself and getting some exercise sounds awesome, but again a helicopter ride, and only a 40 minute walking tour on a glacier. I've heard out of Juneau there is a glacier trek with 2 hours out on the ice, which would be ideal, but we already have group plans for the whole time we are in port there. Is it worth it for 40 minutes to explore? Green Jeep rental up to Emerald Lake - the most economical, but also potentially the most hassle. Potential for seeing lots of wildlife and stop for hikes is a big plus. Also, apparently there's a summer dogsledding camp on the way, so puppies! However, I've heard it rains a lot in September and we'd prefer not to drive/hike in a downpour on an unknown road. Would you recommend booking the car before we get into port or could we just walk over depending on the weather? I'd appreciate any recommendations or advice - thanks! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
paulajj Posted September 1, 2016 #2 Share Posted September 1, 2016 We did this glacier hike. It was really good. http://www.packerexpeditions.com/skagway-day-tours/laughton-glacier-wilderness-hike-and-white-pass-train/ Sent from my iPad using Forums Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cruisen Elf Posted September 2, 2016 #3 Share Posted September 2, 2016 We are doing the Yukon Rail and Pass tour with Chilkoot Charters and Tours. It combines a van ride with the train so you don't spend all day on the train. Perhaps one of their tours would suit your group. https://chilkootcharters.com/# Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sacto Rick Posted September 2, 2016 #4 Share Posted September 2, 2016 We've taken the train before, did a city tour and the Dangerous Days show. This time we're going to take the Glacier Point Wilderness SafarI. It has great reviews and we want to get out there. I'm just hoping for decent weather. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NancyIL Posted September 2, 2016 #5 Share Posted September 2, 2016 From what I have read here - the glacier dogsledding is likely to get cancelled that late in the season. I have done Chilkoot Charter's rail/bus trip to the Yukon twice, and enjoyed it a lot. I'll be on b2b Alaska cruises next May, and plan to do the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari on one of my days in Skagway. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Budget Queen Posted September 3, 2016 #6 Share Posted September 3, 2016 Sorry, Glacier dog Sledding is long shut down when you are there. FIRST- I suggest you need to verify what is still running for your late date. THEN select. You may run into something else not available. Contact vendors direct for their operation dates. NOT through cruise line bookings. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rvorcruise Posted September 6, 2016 #7 Share Posted September 6, 2016 The glacier dogsledding closed for the season a couple of weeks ago. Once the snow melts off the ice, it's too hard on the dogs. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eandj Posted September 6, 2016 #8 Share Posted September 6, 2016 Know too that anything involved with flying can easily be cancelled due to heavy overcast/foggy skies. Our friends tried three different stops for flying adventures and didn't get out for any. Just the luck of the draw. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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