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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Ketchikan to Fairbanks?
The direct drive from Ketchikan to Fairbanks is 1,002 mi (1,612 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 6 hrs in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Ketchikan to Fairbanks, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Juneau, Skagway, Whitehorse, and Sitka, as well as top places to visit like Wrangell Museum and Alaska Vistas Tours, or the ever-popular Anan Wildlife Observatory Site.
The top cities between Ketchikan and Fairbanks are Juneau, Skagway, Whitehorse, and Sitka. Juneau is the most popular city on the route. It's 8 hours from Ketchikan and 22 hours from Fairbanks.
Juneau, also referred to as the City and Borough of Juneau, is the capital of Alaska, situated in the Alaskan panhandle and Gastineau Channel. It serves as a consolidated municipality and ranks second in size among American cities.
Most popular city on this route
17 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to Fairbanks
2
Sitka
Sitka is an Alaskan city and borough near Juneau, the state capital. It's spread over Baranof Island, part of Chichagof Island and others. It was part of Russia until 1867 and St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral is topped with an onion dome. The 1842 Russian Bishop’s House is nearby. Sitka National Historical Park is the site of Russia’s defeat of the indigenous Tlingit people and has a trail dotted with totem poles.
21% as popular as Juneau
10 hours off the main route, 35% of way to Fairbanks
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Skagway is a small town situated in the southeastern region of Alaska, located on the frequently-traveled cruise path called Inside Passage. The area contains historic architecture from the gold-rush era, which has been preserved as a component of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Visitors can also experience breathtaking mountainous vistas during their journey towards Canada via White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad's antique trains that travel past the infamous Chilkoot trail.
47% as popular as Juneau
43 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Fairbanks
Whitehorse is the chief city of the Yukon territory in northwest Canada. The region boasts of Miles Canyon, which has tall basalt cliffs and used to house a town during the gold rush era. Visitors can take a leisurely walk from the canyon through the Yukon River Loop Trail towards S.S. Klondike, an old sternwheeler that navigated through this river in times past.
26% as popular as Juneau
46 minutes off the main route, 63% of way to Fairbanks
Best stops along Ketchikan to Fairbanks drive
The top stops along the way from Ketchikan to Fairbanks (with short detours) are Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, and Tracy Arm. Other popular stops include Mount Roberts Tramway, Glacier Bay Wilderness, and Santa Claus House.
1
Anan Wildlife Observatory Site
Vista point
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
A must-do trip if you’re in southeast Alaska. We took our own boat to the floating dock and walked the trail to the viewing platform. We went the day after the permit season ended, and we’re the only people when we arrived at the site at 9am. More people and the bears arrived around 9:30. The guided tour groups made a sign up sheet for people to take 15 minute shifts in the photographer’s blind and everyone was cooperative where that was concerned. We stayed about three hours. We only saw black bears, and didn’t see any while hiking on the trail.
Shelley Johnson — Google review
Whatever it takes to get here, do it. It’s so surreal that it’s akin to another planet. The bears are fascinating to watch and the eagles are plentiful! Harbor seals, otters, salmon, black bears and brown bears are everywhere you look! Unless you work for National Geographic you will never be this safely close to nature again. Do not bring small children who are loud.
Katy Rudie — Google review
Most amazing place. Saw a lot of bears feeding on salmon. Many bald eagles were there to eat the scraps. Also saw a mamma bear with her cub. They have a blind that you can go down to creek level and take pictures. Some bears are within feet of you when they walk around the observation deck.
Nancy Robertson — Google review
The trail is breathtaking and very well maintained. The guides were knowledgeable and gave out interesting information. The place is magical.
Gosia And Ali — Google review
We loved AnAn observatory. Fun watching bears in nature hunting salmon and feeding. Best time is late July when the salmon are coming in droves to spawn.
Scott Freburg — Google review
Best tour I took in Alaska. It was with Alaska Waters. Bears were amazing! Our guide was knowledgeable.
Patty Erdos — Google review
Great place to see bears close up. The photo blind was great for eye level viewing.
Christian Utheim — Google review
I loved it seeing all the eagles too many to count, the 🐻 bears were so close you could almost touch them, on the trail there was a mama and her cub it was incredible 👏 I will do it again! It was a dream come true!
Cynthia Courtney — Google review
Most wonderful places to go to see wildlife in the actual wild! Rainforest was beautiful!!
The Wrangell Museum in Alaska is a fascinating attraction that provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the town's rich history. This small yet impressive museum showcases a wide array of captivating artifacts and informative exhibits, offering a glimpse into Wrangell's past. The entry fee is definitely worthwhile, considering the surprising amount of interesting information it presents. For those who appreciate mountains and trees, this peaceful and beautiful place should be on their travel list.
I visited the museum why I was in Wrangell Alaska visiting my brother first time out of state of Florida they had a lot of cool stuff in the museum the whole town of Wrangell was wonderful if you like mountains and trees this is a place to go visit so peaceful beautiful can't wait to go back
Larry W Kersey — Google review
Great place to get a glimpse of Wrangells history
Tanya Markham — Google review
Justified the cruise stop all by itself. Surprisingly good museum for a small town.
Tour was safe, exciting, and relaxing all in one. Saw lots of Alaska wildlife, ice, fast river water and beach exploring. Fast stable jet boat with lots of room and comfortable seating. Great view of a massive and active eagles nest. Crew was informative with many years of experience in the area, all eager to share the history and ever changing dynamics of the Stikine River flow. Glad to have chosen Alaska Vista Tours.
Thomas Logan — Google review
Kim Severson — Google review
We could not have been happier with our incredible wildlife tour. We spend an hour following a pod of 3 whales bubble feeding while the captain educated us on what they were doing and how to tell whales apart by their tail markings. Then she quickly took us to see otters and sea lions, and of course we spotted a bald eagle to top off the excursion. Everyone was in awe of my pictures of the whales - they were awesome because we were so close up.
Judy Nordseth — Google review
Had a great 3 day adventure when in Wrangell with them. Day 1 was out to the anan bears, day 2 they arranged with Alaska waters for the Petersburg/Laconte glacier, and day 3 was sitkine river with another glacier!
Maura Harkins — Google review
Very friendly tour operator. Very knowledgeable of the area. Nice 3.5 hour trip to see Shakes Glacier.
KG M — Google review
We did a tour to see LeConte glacier and it was fantastic all around. We didn’t book the tour for ourselves - it was facilitated through a cruise company, but we would pick Sylvia and team for sure ourselves if we’re lucky enough to come back to Wrangell or Petersburg. The jet boat driving was great fun, the area around LeConte is so special and our guides were kind and insightful and just great people to get to know. We actually lost an important document and they went out of their way to help us sort it out. We’re really glad we got to be on their tour! Dankeschön :)
Stephanie Dzionara — Google review
Stunning bear experience at Anan, great guides, it was a lifetime dream come true.
Carl Rianhard — Google review
I had a great excursion with John to Le Conte glacier, and Sheila showed us around the town the next day. Great experience all around!
Tracy Arm Bay is a narrow inlet with floating ice, glaciers, and wildlife. It's popular for boat tours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Amazing views. This tour was great but we couldn't get as close as they normally do because the ice was still very thick at the beginning of May. Also saw part of the glacier fall off. An amazing trip if you get the chance to go
Melissa W — Google review
Amazing views of the High cliffs and mountains either side, barely wide enough for the cruise ship. Ship managed to get to within 1k of the glacier but was so sunny you couldn't see it due to glare. Nevertheless amazing experience to cruise through. You also see icy blue mini icebergs or growlers, floating down from the glacier.
steve&alfie — Google review
If you have the chance to go through the fjord, definitely take it! Everywhere I looked I would see something so beautiful. Our captain did such a great job navigating through the icebergs, the other ship couldn't make it through (felt bad for the individuals on that boat). We saw so many whales, seals, icebergs, the glacier, a breathtaking waterfall. Such an experience!
Yachai Reilly — Google review
We enjoyed the Tracy Arm Fjord. We visited on our way from Seattle to Skagway
s34nVideos — Google review
We arrived here with a Royal Caribbean cruise. We saw the glacier but not too close. The fiord is beautiful.
Gal N — Google review
We made the trip to Juneau to explore Tracy Arm Fjord. It was an amazing day. The ice bergs were so blue and the glaciers enormous. It’s difficult to tell from pictures how spectacular it all was in person.
Ryan Bibler — Google review
Wow what an amazing place. Beautiful fjords . A lot of waterfalls along the mountain cliffs, glaciers and icebergs.We took an Alaskan cruise and it’s in one of our itinerary. Absolutely beautiful..
Manny Alonzo — Google review
WOW. We had a perfect day. Sunny and warm. Boat took us to both sides of Sawyer glacier. Had a Glacier-iata. Beautiful landscape and tour. It's worth getting close.
Michael Mathews — Google review
Breathtaking views when you sail through this fjord. It ends in an equally stunning glacier! Well worth it and a must see.
Sandra Karr — Google review
Amazing experience boating through the tracy arm fjord! Highly recommend this experience if you're on a cruise or staying near Juneau. The fjord cliffs had waterfalls with rushing water in early June. Beautiful icebergs, glaciers, and animals.
Monica Herron — Google review
Beautiful fjord. Some of the prettiest landscape I have ever seen. I cannot recommend it enough. We went after a rain, so there were waterfalls everywhere. If you can get a tour boat into the fjord, take the opportunity. It is worth it.
Stephen Betz — Google review
What a magnificent glacier! Even it need over 2 hrs to reach but worth it👍.
Compared with few months ago ,we could see how different there are.
The Mount Roberts Tramway is a gondola lift that takes tourists from the cruise ship dock in downtown Juneau to the 1,800-foot level of Mount Roberts. From there, visitors have an expansive view of Southeast Alaska.
The best $25 spent in Juneau. Tickets are $25 and you can ride as many times you want. The views are great , the bar and dinning area on top very reasonably priced . The tram travels 1800 ft from street level to top of the mountain which offers some great views of the valley.
Steve Chuckrey — Google review
Weather was great for us ( just a bit foggy) so no snow blocking paths etc. Price was$45/person for whole day pass. We liked the idea of coming back later to watch the sunset. This was our first cruise port. The souvenirs were a pricier here than later in the trip. They did have some unique gifts, particular to the indigenous Tlingit tribe that included masks, paintings, carvings that I did not see highlighted as much at other port stores. The movie discussing Tlingit history was VERY informative and helpful and a great launching point to the rest of the journey. All people in my group were excited to study this people and their culture more. All individuals that worked there were kind and responsive. There were some trails and a coffee shop and a birds of prey rescue spot. One of our group was on crutches so we didn’t explore that much out and about.
Tamara R — Google review
Having done the hike up, we were very happy to take the tram down!
It’s a quick and scenic 8 minute ride.
If you spend a combined amount of $20 per person in cafe, restaurant, and gift shop, then you’re entitled to a free ride down- the one way fee is $20 per person so it’s a no brainier!
We bought some ice cold drinks and a few souvenirs, but you could have a nice lunch up there too.
Highly recommended!
Gustav — Google review
Great views of the town overlooking the port! The ride was quick and smooth going up and going down. There's a nice gift shop at the top with lots of souvenirs! One of the highlights of our trip to Juneau!
S H — Google review
Well worth it. Amazing views, very quick and efficient. Lines move quickly. LeAnn is very knowledgeable and even more funny! Incredible views. Take time at the top for the totem pole hike. Definitely worth doing.
Vince Golla — Google review
I loved the native performance and informative video. The ticket for the tram is $50, but you can ride it all day long. My friend told me there was a live eagle, but it isn't there anymore. The outdoor views from the restaurant are incredible but we didn't eat there. If you bring binoculars, you can watch mountain goats from your table. The gift shop is huge and has a wide variety of souvenirs you can buy. Beautiful views from the tram and very short ride.
Erin Ford Stiles — Google review
Lacking. The tram, the views and the experience was nice and worth the time and price but it could have been so much more. Maybe covid ruined it a bit but the restaurant was not too good and the gift shop could have been better too. It’s a closed space so the only things up there are managed by the tram. A little variety of places and restaurants and choices would make it better. My favorite thing was the video and native speaker in the auditorium.
Mark Tremel — Google review
Nice ride to the top. Informative short film on Native American history.
Also a rescued Bald Eagle is there with a very informative guide/caretaker that talks about this particular eagle and eagles in general.
Great views if the weather cooperates.
Ken P. — Google review
Very cool experience. The tram takes you up to the mountain where there is a nice restaurant and beautiful hiking.
Ash Diane — Google review
Definitely pretty views, but for $50 US a person it’s in my opinion not overly worth it. Juneau is very touristy to begin with, if you do the tram, wait until a little later in the day- there aren’t as many people and your pass is good for the entire day anyways. We went around 3:30 and had no line up. Nice staff!
As for things to do at the top, there’s a cafeteria style restaurant and a coffee shop and gift shop. Most things are just more expensive versions of what is at the bottom in the town Center.
Andrea White — Google review
Rode the Mount Roberts Tramway up to and down Mount Roberts (Roberts Peak) in early June 2023. Quick way to get in a short hike on the mountain. The tram operator provided facts about the history of the area during the trip up and down the mountain.
Saw a few bald eagles during my hike on the mountain. Gorgeous, lush area. The summit has a restaurant. When I visited there was a short film and talk about the indigenous people of the area.
Jani O — Google review
Located near the cruise dock but not affiliated with it, everyone is welcome to buy a ticket. The Mount Roberts Tramway is very much worth the trip. The views are quite nice and there is an interesting bar and restaurant. A film on the indigenous peoples from the area is informative and interesting. The tram ride is surprisingly fast and very stable and very worthwhile when in Juneau.
Louis and Elaine — Google review
If in Juneau and the weather is clear you have to go. Gorgeous views up and down the river. Hike to Father Browns cross for an even better view. Only a half mile, but uphill and on dirt and rock. Pretty easy.
Scott Freburg — Google review
A bit on the pricy side but the ride and views were outstanding. The operators are happy to answer questions and give you information about the trams and the local area.
Hiking trails are well marked. There are various difficulty levels so be sure to keep that in mind before heading out. Wear good shoes and watch your step as the trails can be a bit slick after it rains.
Well done movie about the native people and their history. The host was excellent and did a great job of making the pre-film talk interactive. He is an excellent drummer and storyteller.
We were disappointed that the nature center and eagle were not available to view.
Sally Garrison — Google review
While in Juneau, we took the Mount Roberts Tramway up to the top - it's definitely worth it. The views from the lodge and trails are really great. The trails were a bit on the muddy side when we went, and some were partially covered in snow - but were well worth the trek. We saw a number of bald eagles perched on the tops of some of the trees overlooking the town as well. We stopped in for a few drinks to the bar area - beers were reasonably priced, and the staff were friendly and helpful.
The hiking area Mt. Roberts Trailhead is a great place to hike and see the city from behind. It's a pretty easy hike, depending on your shape, and there are usually few people there so you get plenty of time to enjoy it alone. If you want to take the tram down for $10, it's an amazing way to finish the hike!
Amazing hike!
If you spend $15 (now) in the gift shop or restaurant, you can get the tram way down.
Highly reocmmend!
s34nVideos — Google review
It was a beautiful 22’c summers day, so we decided to do the hike up to the upper tram station.
Note: June & July you may need to pack your mosquito repellent!
It’s a very quick but steep walk from downtown up to the place where the trail starts - you could take an Uber if you wanted to safe energy for the hike.
The whole trail is well laid out and well signed. And it felt very safe too. We passed several people doing the walk in the opposite direction. I’m not sure which is easier/ better as it’s a constant incline and muddy / slippery in places.
It’s an absolute gorgeous hike through the pine forests with all the lush green undergrowth. There are several stopping spots with benches, and a few view points too. It took us 90 min to do the complete walk from Downtown.
There were tons of mosquitoes and we were so glad we had packed the Deet mosquito repellent, otherwise we’d have been eaten alive!
Apparently mid June - end July is mosquito season, so be prepared.
We reached the top and had some well deserved refreshing beverages at the restaurant.
Be sure to keep your receipts from the Cafe/ Restaurant/ gift shop for your free tram ride down - you need a combined spend of $20 per person to qualify. The price for a one way ticket down is $20 per person anyway, so it’s a no brainier.
You queue for the tram and when the person come round to check tickets you just need to show your receipts to prove your spend.
A wonderful experience, and highly recommended!
Gustav — Google review
If you want to save some money on the tram and feel huge accomplishment, walk up the mountain! It’s a steep walk to get to trail head from the town, and the incline continues the whole way. The track is pretty well marked out but be careful under foot with slippery rocks and tree roots as it’s so steep, and there are also loads of bugs and flies so use repellant. Including walk from town to the tram at the top, it took 2 about hours. You can pay $20 for the tram down if you don’t want to walk back. Great exercise and worth it at the top.
Rebecca — Google review
Beautiful views from the top, was a nice day to go when I went. If you have the chance to go I highly recommend it. You may want to bring good hiking boots as there was snow when I went.
Kristofer Valadez — Google review
Trail was wet and muddy but not awful. Our feet never got wet, you could avoid most of it. Instead of taking the tram up for 100 bucks, just hike up and enjoy Alaska beauty. This trail takes about 3 hours round trip.
Denny Brenny — Google review
You got off the ship, now what?
Take a casual jog over to the trailhead, check out the layout of the town while you’re at it. Decent cell coverage throughout, plethora of nice views along the way.
The actual hike will bring you up to the lift, which you may choose to take down. Overall, I think you should have plenty of time to take the hike up and down, give yourself about 2-3 hours, slightly less if you are jogging a bit.
Bring some snacks, water, and dress appropriately!
Jason W — Google review
A 1.5-mile hike from Basin Road to the Tram station and Mt.Roberts. The trail is in good conditions, some steeper sections and switchbacks. It in the forest and on the back side of the mountain, so only one lookout until you reach the Tram station. It rained and the trail was a bit muddy, but with dirty boots you can be proud of yourself when you reach the Tram station with all the cruise ship folks in flip-flops. The trail continues to the Father Brown's Cross and Mt.Roberts, or one can take the 0.5 mile Alpine Loop trail. As the other reviews recommend, take the Tram down. It's free with a minimum of $15 purchase in the restaurant or the gift shop. Frankly, nobody checked it when we board the Tram. A great half day activity while in Juneau.
Pavel F — Google review
Nice and steep hike. Nice view at the end, you get to the same stop as the tram. Up to 1.5 hour to the top
Patricio — Google review
Yes, you can do this trail in the winter! (Tram is closed in the winter, so you’ll have to hike down.)
Gear:
- Spikes help, not 100% necessary but highly recommend
- Snow pants are a must
Time:
- 1hr 45m going up
- 45m coming down
Quite enjoyable, not super difficult but snow will really slow you down.
Hudson Hopper — Google review
It’s a good hike on the backside of the mountain and behind the city. It’s a pretty easy hike( depending your shape). Not many people will hike it, so you get plenty of time enjoying the trail alone, most people take the tram. But you can take a tram ride down for $10 if you get s souvenir or buy something in the restaurant for $10.
Nugget Falls is a 377 foot tall waterfall that cascades into Mendenhall Lake at the base of the Nugget Glacier. The views of the nearby Mendenhall Glacier and large waterfall are particularly beautiful during autumn, when the colors pop. The hike to get to Nugget Falls is easy and takes about an hour, with plenty of great wildlife viewing opportunities on the way.
Great place to take in the sites while checking out the Mendenhall Glacier. The falls are amazing. I'm the flow is huge in the summer. We caught the early springfor on a spectacular day in April. Lots cool trails in the area
Joe Spadea — Google review
Wow what an amazing experience to see this place. The waterfall is a short 30 minutes walk from the Mendenhal glacier Visitor center. This place has glaciers, waterfalls, lake, forest and a beach. We came on a tour from a recent Alaska cruise last August and we’re really amazed how beautiful this place. There’s several viewpoint to the glacier and there’s a short 30 minutes hike to the nugget waterfalls. The hike is nice because you have some mini waterfalls along the trail and it’s forested areas. If you’re lucky you might see some wildlife like bears. Overall a nice place to visit if you’re in Juneau..
Manny Alonzo — Google review
It was an easy, out-and-back trail of about 40 minutes to reach the falls. The path was wide and clear. Well worth the walk to get a good view of the falls.
Pam S — Google review
Went on a 2 mile hike out and back on a flat trail to see the falls! It was just jaw dropping to see the power of the water as it descends down and creates this waterfalls! Definitely a check off my bucket list! It's amazing to see!
S H — Google review
I’m just now getting to adding all my adventures from my trip to Alaska. Time flies when you’re having fun and I couldn’t stop for reviews lol. Located near Mendenhall Glacier Nuggets Falls is a must! We paid for a tour to a few spots around town and the National Park was one part. Nugget Falls Trail itself is beautiful. Even more if you’re from the desert in Arizona like myself. I love for all things green and beautiful. The trail to the falls is paved and while pretty easy it could be a little far for some with issues walking etc. while you may make part of it with a wheelchair I wouldn’t recommend it. It was raining pretty good the day we went, but it didn’t detour us in the slightest. It was even more fun honestly . The end result was worth every second. The falls are beautiful and the sound of the water is unreal. You get an even more spectacular view of the glacier itself. Great photo opportunities.
Janelle — Google review
Breathtaking scenery, cool and relaxed environment. Trail is super easy and you get to enjoy seeing other smaller falls as you make your way to the beautiful and exhilarating Nugget falls.
Roberto ?RC_CH? Chacon — Google review
Highlight of my trip to Mendenhall Glacier! Walking at a moderately fast pace it took me about 15- 20 minutes to walk to the falls from the start of the trail. It's a good size waterfall and you can get pretty close. Easy flat trail with kids and seniors able to do it. The trail is busy and I didn't see any wild life. Definitely worth the short hike!
Nat A — Google review
What an incredible waterfall. The sheer force of the water was incredible to be next to. Short easy walk from the visitors center. It rained when we went so we were soaked but still was magical and awesome.
Wenter S. — Google review
Nugget Falls trail is a great place to hike to from the Mendenhall Visitor Center. It’s a brisk 30 minute hike 1 way on a pretty flat trail that takes you directly to the falls and next to the glacier. The sheer force of the falls can be felt wherever you’re standing.
Formed by the creek from the Nugget Glacier, the waterfall drops 377 feet in two tiers of 99 feet and 278 feet onto a sandbar in Mendenhall Lake, which is the freshwater pool at the face of the Mendenhall Glacier. The lake then drains via Mendenhall River into the Inside Passage.
This is a MUST SEE fun activity if you’re coming here and well worth the hike!
Michelle Foy — Google review
Such a wonderful area to enjoy some light hiking and photos. Be prepared for the trails at times to be congested but the overall trail is easily accessible by anyone walking and a decent portion is wheelchair accessible. Make sure to bring water as the gift shop doesn’t sell any drinks.
Michael Beckham — Google review
Stunning views! Cute and easy trail! Definitely one of my favorites in Juneau!
Monica Nieto — Google review
Worth the extra walk. Recommend taking the left path instead of the more paved right turn. It has creek crossings on rocks and lake side views. Way prettier!
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a stunning tourist destination with exhibits and trails about the glacier. The center offers a unique perspective on the glacier, as well as information on climate change and the ecosystem of the area.
What a sight! The wife and I enjoyed the afternoon here very much. Everything was clean and well maintained. Plenty of walking trails to get different views of the waterfall and glacier.
Nathan DeMers — Google review
Wonderful experience. If you come on a shuttle, experienced hikers should go to the visitors center first for a more comprehensive trail map and the opportunity to get off the very well beaten path. The nugget falls and creek trails are almost too well made to even be called trails anymore. Very accessible and a brisk walk to see the glacial view and water fall. All-in-all, a beautiful and well kept park with attentive rangers and staff who look after the safety of visitors and more importantly, the wildlife and delicate ecosystems.
Hannah Smart — Google review
If you are able rent a car while in Juneau so you can relax and take all the time you need to explore. Mendenhall Glacier is one of those places you can go back to several times. But if you are not able to do this, and only have limited time, try your best to make the hike to Nugget Falls. It's a two mile round trip easy terrain walk. And if you are up for longer hikes there are plenty of trails for you to discover. If that's not possible no worries! There are several viewing stations and another area that has an elevated walkway that will give you quick and beautiful glimpses of the glacier and rainforest. You might even see of a bear there. 🐻 Always be bear aware anytime you are hiking or walking around brush and forest areas in Juneau. The elevated walkways are also ADA accessible. You can also book tours like kayaking in the lake or land on the glacier in a helicopter. Like I said, tons to do here!
Kitty Conroy — Google review
You can buy tickets right there if you want. If you have a park's pass it would cover you anyway. Seeing the glacier was amazing as well as the lake around it, but we got to see super blue ice and they even had a piece of the glacier inside of the visitor center that you could touch. There is a great viewpoint out the back of the visitor center on a deck where you can take some awesome photos. There are trails that you can take all around. We did not take the trails because of mobility issues, but there is an elevator right into the visitor center for accessibility if you need to and accessible parking very close by. The museum inside is really great at helping you understand how the glaciers changed over even the last 10 years all the way back to more than that and understanding the effects. There is also a short movie I want to say like 18 minutes long you can watch. My whole family enjoyed it. Ranging an age from 12 up to seniors so it was a great place to go in Alaska. We didn't take a tour bus. We took a rental car so that we could go as much or as little as we wanted.
Lynn Morgan — Google review
Wonderful experience go to the waterfall if you can. The hike is not hard. I have an injured ankle and was able to do it fine.
Trevor Shelby — Google review
We enjoyed the glacier and the museum. We watched a video and looked at exhibits. It was a great time. I'm glad we went. We took a city bus and walked instead of paying out the nose for a cruise excursion. Got a little exercise and saw some great views.
Laurie Powers — Google review
This is an amazing place. The rangers on duty were full of knowledge and their passion was infectious. The visitor center is a great place to start your journey and take in the exhibits and view from the front windows.
Kaweka Stoney — Google review
The view from the visitor center viewing area is incredible for those that don't want to or can't hike the trail. The trail to Nugget Falls was easy-moderate. Our young kids (ages 6-7) made the trip easily. There were several other trails as well that weren't as heavily trafficked. Recommend having water with you as NO food/beverage sales. Coming from a cruise we used The Blue Bus service instead of a planned excursion so we had as much time as we wanted to hike the trails and didn't have to be rushed.
Jenny B — Google review
We stopped here as a cruise destination on Norwegian Bliss. This was a beautiful stop and the hike in and out were stunning. Shuttles in Juneau were easy to find and with a bit of work much better deals than buying through the cruise. The only complaint is this is at least a 30 minute drive and the cruise ships don't give enough time in this port.
Phillip Wilson — Google review
Beautiful glacier to visit with the family with a few moderate trail options. It was more crowded when we went than other places we’d been in Alaska, but not too congested. I would highly recommend Nugget Falls trail, which is short, paved, and provides a wonderful view.
Gabriella — Google review
Beautiful place for hiking and photography. Lot's of cool spots for pics. You can easily spend half a day here.
Rafael Gonzalez-Arnau — Google review
Beautiful Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls visit! Wish we had more time to spend here as we were part of a tour group. There was a trail two miles round trip to see Nugget Falls. The glacier is best seen from where the Mendenhall sign is located although it was next to Nugget Falls, it's hard to really see it from that vantage even though you are close to it. This was definitely the highlight of our cruise besides Glacier Bay Park.
S H — Google review
The Mendenhall glacier in Juneau, Alaska is located next to a lake and has a visitor's center. I believe it is the only glacier you can drive up to. I visited in the end of July 2022. It was a good time to go as it was not raining and the glacier was not covered by fog. I took a short walk to the base of the visitor's center and got a spectacular view of the glacier. You can also hike in to get a closer view. The blue glacier colors were breathtaking. The visitor's center showed a short informational film about glaciers that I enjoyed.
Patricia Sarmiento-Orozco — Google review
It's cool. But don't get your hopes up too high. I mean, if you've never seen a glacier, then it'll be a 5 star visit. On the other hand, if you've been to several, it's mountains and ice...same. We had 12 hours in Juneau so we took the public bus for $2 each way. There's a walk involved, but I'll walk a couple miles to save $300 all day, every day.
Chris Walhof — Google review
If coming on a cruise, buy shuttle tickets from any of the many tour companies. We used Juneau Whale Watch tours and it was $60 for transport 40 minutes each way, a history tour of downtown, and entrance fee. They give you ticket to either ride their shuttle back or take another companies. We loved the hiking and photos so much that we stayed a few hours.
Overcast days provide the bluest glacier color. Bathrooms in the Visitor center building as well as trail maps and telescopes setup to see mountain goats.
Eating Food or flavored drinks, and smoking is strictly forbidden in the park due to bears and sensitive moss.
Hiking to the falls is very flat and easy for all ages. Many photo ops. Look for salmon in the creek if it is the right time of year. Eggs nest mushrooms, flowers and moss blooming. Keep an eye out for the friendly black wolf or bears who want to take you to dinner.
Shuttles back run every 30 minutes depending which company you choose.
Chris Glick — Google review
We loved this place! Our cruise stopped at Juneau and we took a combo tour including the glacier. Absolutely stunning! Make sure you check out the salmon in the stream going to spawn. You may or may not see a bear, but it is still worth it. We paid for a tour but you can go individually and an annual national Park pass will be accepted there
Beverly Meyer — Google review
The breathtaking view of the glacier leaves you in awe of the raw beauty of nature. As you stand before the massive ice formations and shimmering blue ice, you can't help but feel humbled by the grandeur of this glacial marvel.
Apart from the glacier itself, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center houses a delightful museum that adds an educational touch to the visit. It's an excellent opportunity for kids to learn about the fascinating world of glaciers, their impact on the environment, and the unique wildlife that thrives in this icy ecosystem.
The accessibility features at Mendenhall Glacier ensure that everyone can enjoy this natural wonder. With handicap accessible paths and bathroom facilities, the needs of all visitors are well catered to, enhancing the experience for families and individuals with mobility challenges.
Exploring the surroundings of the glacier is a treat in itself. The lush greenery, scenic trails, and occasional wildlife sightings offer an immersive encounter with nature. It's a great way for kids to burn off some energy while staying connected to the great outdoors.
From its awe-inspiring views to its educational museum and family-friendly facilities, it's a place that fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world and creates cherished memories for families and adventurers alike.
Overall, Mendenhall Glacier is an enchanting destination that captivates the hearts of both young and old. Mendenhall Glacier is a true natural wonder that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination to explore with kids.
Ali Dibo — Google review
A remarkable Alaskan wilderness experience! We arrived during a shower so we felt the wintry elements of freezing temperatures and rainy wetness up front and personal! The natural environment here is lovely but so very harsh that we cannot even imagine how tough and hardy the local inhabitants have to be to survive and alongside the wild life especially bears.
The Visitor Centre was small but well equipped as a refuge when the exterior gets too overwhelming. Simple interpretative displays give good insight into the surroundings. Enjoyed the short video. Excellent toilet facilities. Didn’t have enough time and endurance to walk to the Nugget Falls but the panorama from the viewing point does give you a very good impression of the glacial magnificence.
eddie chan — Google review
Great place to visit, go with company the walk may feel lonely and lots of signs about wildlife and bears although I did not see any on the way to the waterfall
Rishi P — Google review
Incredible place, beautiful trails, I would highly recommend visiting this spot. We only had 4 hours as our cruise ship stopped in Juneau, but we got a tour off the dock with a local company, they were awesome! The tour was about 75usd each. Basically a narrated ride to the glacier visitors centre, and they drop you there and you can walk to the actual glacier. Definitely not to be missed if you go to Juneau!
Ian Jolicoeur — Google review
Wonderful hike from the visitor’s center, around Mendenhall Lake, and up to the glacier. The visitor’s center itself is a beautiful piece of architecture. And it is so interesting to see where the glacier used to be before climate change has made it recede.
Jacob Gellman — Google review
Wonderful spot. Lots of trails. Sometimes some of them are closed because of bears. The glacier, though landlocked, is impressive. There's also a very scenic waterfall there. If you're not a hiker there still a lot to see. There are great viewing areas right near the parking lot. The facilities are great as well, with flush toilet bathrooms and a big viewing deck at the visitor center.
Casch52 — Google review
Outstanding experience. The visitor center has lots of information and is staffed by knowledgeable park rangers who can answer any questions you may have. The glacier is visible from the visitor center and they have convenient telescopes so that you can see it up close. Plenty of picture taking opportunities. Short 2 mile round-trip hike will get you two nugget falls which is well worth the trip.
Sean & Kristin Parsons — Google review
We had a limited amount of time here during a combo ship excursion and had a fantastic little hike to Nugget Falls. Highly recommend. Easy and beautiful walk and a one of a kind experience. Took us about 40 mins there and back, with a few stops to take photos.
Emily J. McDaniel — Google review
Amazing to see the waterfall. Short hike with very nice trail
Justin Eltoft — Google review
Fantastic! Took the walk to Nugget Falls which took approximately 16 minutes each way. Car parking plentiful and easy to find! No one checks that you’ve paid, however would recommend doing so as it contributes to the upkeep of the park.
Nugget Falls has some fantastic picture opportunities and would 100% recommend visiting.
Craig Eaton — Google review
A beautiful natural experience that's an easy short walk from the parking lot. Great facilities, readily available information and maps, clean parking area. Enjoyed my visit.
The Shrine of Saint Therese is a Catholic religious landmark located in Juneau, Alaska. This site is frequented by people from various religious backgrounds and features a small chapel which has become popular for weddings. The shrine also includes gardens and a stone chapel which is often visited by pilgrims.
This place is always Beautiful. My Mom and Me go to the gift shop and purchase coffee and a snack for our walk to the Chapel. Whether you are going for prayer or to sightsee or to just sit, it's a very welcoming establishment.
Victoria Cascio — Google review
The views were amazing! There is a gift shop, a small labyrinth, and during the summer there are beautiful flowers on the grounds.
Marie Stackhouse — Google review
Absolutely stunning and so serene. I enjoyed it much more than I expected to. The rosary trail was beautiful in the foliage.
Sarah M387 — Google review
Truly majestic! Great detail in the maintenance of the grounds! The water goes on forever with the most beautiful blue colors. The walk out to the chapel is short. Once you are at the chapel you can enter and sign the visitor log and take a moment to connect spiritually. The stations of the cross are outside in the garden around the chapel. Worth the time to meander to each one and see the gorgeous art.
Rebecca Rementer — Google review
Oh my! The cab driver told us about this and you have to go! An air of history and sacredness enfolds you as you walk amongst flower gardens ( blue meconopsis poppies!), historical buildings, surrounded by mountain ranges and gentle lapping shores. Don't miss this!
Diane Howerton — Google review
Just a few miles outside of Juneau. Beautiful towering trees, impressive mountains and lots of water. Plenty of space to walk around and enjoy the scenery. St. Therese Catholic Church on the grounds for those who wish to visit. Highly recommended.
Tony Fallone — Google review
Excellent place to see some native birds and some beautiful gardens. The scenic views are astonishing It's a short little but well worth it. Wish we were able to stop during mass.
Christopher K — Google review
This chapel is amazing. It is set in a beautiful tranquil area. The craftsmanship is fantastic yet the chapel has a humble simplicity about it that really helps provide a feeling of reverence and closeness to God. This is a must see.
Paul S — Google review
This is my second time visiting, and this time, I had the pleasure of introducing my brother and his family to this peaceful and serene Shrine located on the water. Stations of the Cross have been constructed throughout the wooded area around the church. As you make your way along the pathways, the subtle lapping of the water and the sounds of local birds surround you. One of my favorite things here is a labyrinth, a beautiful space for walking meditation. It is evident that much time and effort have been put into creating this homage to Saint Therese. It’s a beautiful place for prayer and reflection. ☀️
Thresa Kussman — Google review
Stunning place. There's quite beautiful plants and flowers in the garden. A chapel for prayers. Little trails around the peninsula connected by a rock concrete covered bridge. The view is astounding. Although have in mind this is a religious place.
Silvette Mayorquin — Google review
Such a beautifully preserved sanctuary. I don't know much of its history or anything, nor can I speak to the religion that it represents as I was visiting on neutral terms and observing in admiration of nature. It's incredible. The atmosphere, the energy, the life... it was surreal! This sacred ground really is a sacred place and I loved everything about it
Eagle Beach in Canada is a serene getaway that provides a reprieve from the busy city life. With its vast spread of sandy beaches and crystal clear water, it is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful day by the sea. The beach is adorned with lush greenery that enhances its natural beauty, making it a picturesque spot for relaxing or taking a romantic walk.
Technical Jamali — Google review
Nice place to relax, take a nice walk and picnic. Perfect place to slow down and admire the gorgeous Alaskan landscape. The views are just breathtaking.
Rebecca Rementer — Google review
We visited on our way back from traveling to where the highway ends. On the drive we saw a porcupine, two brown bears, eagles, and a bumble bee flew into the car (we set the bee free at Eagle Beach).
Dawn Strojny — Google review
Amazing!!! The scenery is amazing here. It definitely lives up to its name too! We spotted upwards of 20 while walking along the beach and everything is just gorgeous
Madison Cruz — Google review
First time to Eagle Beach during the winter (really my first time to Juneau at all) and we had a blast. It was beautiful during sunset and enjoyed playing with pieces of ice washed up on shore. It was like I was a kid again!
Melissa Kratz — Google review
Do not miss this scenic viewpoint. There are picnic tables and restrooms, so a great place for lunch with a view.
Julie Perry — Google review
Great location for a quick getaway from the busy city life. About 35min from downtown offering solitude and gorgeous views with covered picnic areas, grills and public restrooms. Bring water and firewood and something to throw on the grill and you will have a fantastic time camping for free or just spend your day in the last frontier.
Attila Benoit — Google review
Beautiful place to walk around and see the sights: mountain and ocean views, sea life, and eagles, just like the name says.
Steve G — Google review
Beautiful beach! Lots of open area!
skillert69 — Google review
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Juneau, AK 99801, USA
I'll never travel to Fairbanks without this trip planner again
Icy Strait Point is a tourist attraction in Hoonah, Alaska that features tours of the salmon cannery and cultural exhibits. The port also provides shuttle service to nearby towns and features a restored salmon cannery as well as trails through the surrounding rainforest.
It was very relaxing and peaceful here. The walk by the water was beautiful and has a nice view of mountains. There is plenty to do here, including taking the tram or getting some food. Be on the lookout for bald eagles and be sure to bring your camera.
Jeremy Dessert — Google review
Loved the Crab House! Great food and drink. The one local bartender was the best. Service was slow, prices where high, but hey!, your on vacation. It was an experience and I would do it again. Lots of gift shops with a great selection of everything. You are sure to find something. Scenery in area was amazing and plenty of photo 📸 opportunities.
Ozzie Os — Google review
I don't even know where to start other than to say that throughout the several AK towns I visited, this was my favorite. Fresh air, sea air, bear sightings, mountain views, free gondola ride, campfires, totems, fishing boats, wild flowers, local homes, cemetary, cannery museum, walking along the beach, finding sea shells, and the sound of the sea rolling the beach rocks on the shore.
I didn't partake in the zipline or other excursions. They looked fun, but I was enjoying just walking around.
Tammy Schur — Google review
A magical play land in a truly gorgeous setting! A free tramway whisks you to the base station from which you can ride another steeper tramway to the top of the mountain for $50. Worth every penny! For an additional fee you can zip line to the bottom and then take the tramway back up as many times as you want. The views are spectacular in every direction! There are trails leading to various natural attractions such as an icy lake, a cannery. Be advised that we went in April with the snow season just behind us and the rainy season just ahead. The air was crystal clear, and the 5-10 feet of snow was just starting to melt making for incredible wintry views in every direction. A visit in the summer would be warmer and greener with a high chance of rain.
Harry VanDyck — Google review
We came here in a cruise. We did not go into the tourist port, so can’t say first hand what the amenities are. We took a whale watching tour right from our dock. However, the place is very new and nice. For us older folk, a long walk up a big ramp to get to the tourist area, but there is a large golf cart to help. We heard there is a free gondola from our dock to the tourist area. There is a gondola up the mountain, a zip line, restaurants and shopping.
Jim Earp — Google review
It was a cute little cruise stop after glacier bay. They had lots of fun things to do while walking around. Only gave it 4 stars because the gondola up the mountain was too expensive. All the staff was great and the free gondola between docks was excellent and clean. The zip line looked amazing.
Peter Collins — Google review
The zip rider is amazing and the tribal dance was wonderful. The shops are cute, but they are missing an opportunity to sell high end authentic tribal art.
The Museum has some very interesting items and displays. The nice thing is that it is free. We toured it between doing the Zip rider and going to the Tribal dance show.
Rahul Sawant — Google review
Icy Strait Point is an enchanting cruise port that promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. This picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventures, making it a must-visit spot for any traveler. The gondola ride and zip line activities provide an exhilarating way to soak in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the standout features of Icy Strait Point is its dedication to accessibility. The presence of handicap accessible paths ensures that everyone can explore and enjoy the splendor of this place without any limitations. This inclusivity makes the destination truly welcoming to all, adding an extra layer of warmth to its already inviting charm.
The moment you step foot in Icy Strait Point, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. The pristine waters, majestic mountains, and lush forests create a postcard-worthy setting that will leave you in awe.
Beyond the natural beauty, the friendly locals and the rich cultural experiences offered by the indigenous Tlingit community make the visit even more special. Their art, history, and traditions add a meaningful depth to the journey.
Icy Strait Point is a beautiful gem in the world of cruise ports. From its magnificent views to its accessible paths and cultural richness, it is a destination that promises an extraordinary adventure for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement. Support the Alaskan locals.
Ali Dibo — Google review
Yes, it's a tourist trap. But it's very well laid out, and lots of wonderful views. There's a very long zip line that kind of runs backwards taking you on a powered trip up the hill before bringing you back down.
There are a couple of restaurants there and a few curio shops. It's laid out like an Alaskan native village. If you're only there a couple hours it's a great visit.
Casch52 — Google review
A lovely area built up by the cruise lines. A short gondola ride through the forest brings you to a small shopping, historical and food area. Liked it, but don't plan on it taking along to do unless you go up the big gondola to the top of the mountain.
Ed Henderson — Google review
So our excursion was cancelled due to snow on the mountains, so we took a shuttle to the town of Hoonah. It's small. Nothing to do but walk around and take photos of the beautiful scenery. Gift shop is there. The gondala ride was cool. And the snow crab at icy straight was super tasty and filling!!
Jennifer Nillaga — Google review
Super cool cruise ship stop, amazing how it was built up since my last visit and now they can take two cruise ships at the same time as they have added one more dock. The whole area is easily accessible on foot but even if you are looking to take it easy without too much walking you can simply ride the free gondola to transport you from one side to the other. Definitely recommend to enjoy the world's longest zip line or to take the (paid) gondola all the way up to the mountaintop as the views are incredible. In case you don't like heights, no worries, there's plenty to see and do at the bottom, just stroll around and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife (if you're lucky you might see Bears, Whales or even Orcas). Icy Strait Point, 5 stars, absolutely amazing stop!
Tomislav Pajtak — Google review
Best port to see humpback whales all around. Took excursion on boat to see them up closer. Really not much to do at this port. Walk through the woods 10 minutes or take the free sky tram. See the old fish Cannery building, browse some shops and have a local beer. Bring your binoculars to watch whales out feeding.
Chris Glick — Google review
This place is so beautiful. I was taken there during my cruise to Alaska. It is one of the few places that are not filled with jewelry stores. There is a free tram ride which allows you to see the beauty from above. There is also nice fireplaces to sit by and relax. My favorite was taking the trail and walking through the trees where I got to see an eagles nest. You can also walk along the seaside which is filled with starfish. I also got to witness salmon jumping out from the water and a mother deer and her two babies walking by the beach. It is a beautiful place to relax and watch nature.
Deborah Ramnath — Google review
This was a fabulous stop on our cruise. We chose the whale watching and bear viewing excursion.... What a fabulous experience. We saw Orca and Humpback whales, we saw Sea Otters and Harbor Porpoise. We saw the Humpbacks feeding and performing a bubble meet method. Later was saw seven Bear. The first was beautiful. The guides were friendly and informative. We entire experience was inviting and we felt welcome. The shopping was fun and the food was great! I highly recommend Icy Point Straight.
Dan Wilding — Google review
Alaska is one of the last frontiers. It's beautiful and quiet without the hustle and bustle of large cities. We enjoyed walking into town from our cruise ship and rode a tram from the shops to the cruise dock. There's also a zip line here if you're feeling adventurous. We saw salmon spawning in the streams and enjoyed all of the natural beauty.
Debra White (Realtor Keller Williams) — Google review
This was our favorite stop on our cruise, much to our surprise. There was so much wildlife to see off the edge of the pier, a whale watching excursion wasn't even necessary. The Crab House restaurant was credible, and the staff is incredibly friendly. I can't imagine booking another Alaskan cruise without Icy Strait Point on the itinerary.
West Bielstein — Google review
I visited as part of a cruise, and WOW! What a neat place! The people here are AMAZING!!!
If you go as a tourist, please follow some "common sense" rules of decorum:
1. Don't block the gangway to stop and take pictures; do it from the boat, the dock, or the shore, as the walkway from the dock to the shore is also used to transport people with mobility issues by motorized vehicle.
2. If the sign says "Private residence," DO NOT GO AND SIT ON THE PORCH AND HAVE YOUR PICTURE TAKEN! I can't stress this enough. You wouldn't want strangers on your porch, in your chair, touching your stuff, would you?
3. Dress appropriately
4. Put your trash in the proper receptacles
5. Keep your children under control
Easy stuff, right? It's a beautiful place that feels magical, and I was lucky to say, "I got to see and experience it"
Enjoy and have fun!
Dan Paxton — Google review
This place is beautiful and the well preserved salmon cannery is such a unique site... But he prepared to wait in long lines. The sky lifts, cannery, and the town are all at different locations on the island, so there are long lines to utilize the transportation.
Cyle Hardymon — Google review
The gondola ride to the main attraction area is a low track so its doable for those afraid of heights. It's handicap friendly and very well time managed for multiple guests. Great shopping including many items by local artists and a big selection and variety of souvenirs. A small beach to look for rocks and shells. A high and fast zip line for the brave. We booked the back road Jeep Excursion. Incredibly pleasant and knowledgeable guide who also takes the safety of guests seriously in regard to wildlife, environment, and terrain. Guests over 25 years of age drive in 4 vehicles behind the guide who communicated through a radio headset. The duration was around 2 hours but we wished it were more because it was a fantastic experience. Take extra luggage on your trip because you'll find so many unique items to take home.
Diana Stafos — Google review
Arrived via cruise ship, did the whale tour. The best tour of our cruise. Very informative, great people, beautiful area. So wonderful we want to go back.
Larry Russell — Google review
Icy Strait Point was really neat. We went on the Gondolas between the ports and up the mountain. Would highly recommend as the views are stunning. We did hike along the trail to the hidden lake which was very pretty. We also visited the cannery which had some very interesting peices of equipment to see.
Cole McGinnis — Google review
Ice Straight is such a beautiful place! If you ever go, you have got to do the zipline, it is worth every penny spent. The zipline is 50ft taller than the Empire State Building
Sandy Williams — Google review
Did not expect the beauty that we experienced here. Breathtaking. It was one of my favorite stops while in Alaska. Although the tram to the top looks scary, it's a must. Super smooth ride. A view you will never forget🤩
Terri Fisher — Google review
Port stop for cruise lines. Tram to top to solido ride ziprider or hike to hidden lake. Gorgeous views.
Melanie Cline — Google review
This place was quite beautiful. The tribe has amusement rides (zip line, gondola) but they are off to the side. It does not feel like an amusement park. I recommend the bear guide tour. The gift shops by the pier are top notch. I thoroughly enjoyed this place!
Rick Thiel — Google review
Lots of fun even for the most daring. Lots of great views and beautiful nature. Got a great pic of an eagle watching all of us!
Located in Skagway, the Yukon Suspension Bridge is a popular attraction for tourists and families. It offers cultural and geological information, along with spectacular views and a reasonably priced gift shop. While the restaurant may be closed during off-peak seasons, visitors can still enjoy a great shopping experience in the commercial area nearby. The bridge is part of a scenic excursion that combines the best of the White Pass Railroad with an expedition to this unique destination.
My family and I stopped here with our tour group and it was a really cool experience. The bridge is very sturdy, they have plenty of historical information, and there’s some quick snacks to pick up. We got ketchup chips, which sound weird but taste amazing
Josh W — Google review
An interesting stop along the Highway from Skagway to Whitehorse. A Construction Group built a suspension bridge over the Tutshi river and built a number of out building and areas to view the scenery. There is a gift shop and museum along with a number of exhibits. Great views and a fun rest stop.
Joseph Dandona Jr. — Google review
It’s not really a restaurant, but more of a scenic attraction. There is a snack bar with quick to go foods and hot and cold drinks. A museum, historic poster boards throughout the place, historical artifacts, and over course the fascinating suspension bridge going over the Yukon River. Parking is limited, but it is an amazing excursion to take from a cruise. Recommended!
trl1971 — Google review
Such a nice place! Lots of places to sit, drink coffee and enjoy the scenery. The gift shop is pretty expensive so we skipped on the souvenirs. The best place to take a selfie is in the middle of the bridge! They also have cute frames on the other side to take photos with.
Danielle Daniels — Google review
Stopped here by chance and were definitely wowed! This is a fantastic place to stop and check out the sights. Wander the site and learn the history of the area and amazing displays set up by the family that runs this place! Don’t forget to stock up on snacks and supplies before you continue on your journey!
Jesse Gillis — Google review
Great test stop at the bridge.
The views on the train were amazing!
Unplug, get away!
Go to Alaska to appreciate unspoilt nature!
Kenneth Perez — Google review
This is a great place to visit. Good food, interesting kiosk and lots to see and do. The bridge itself is awesome and the views from above the river are breathtaking.
Warwick Sellens — Google review
The woman who works the gift shop was a delight to speak to. Very friendly and informative. T-shirts are amazing quality and such a great price! All set up with gifts for family.
Bridge and surrounding outbuildings are beautiful. Loved everything about this stop!
Angela Girard — Google review
We visited as part of a tour group, so our admission was included and we only had 45 minutes to walk around. We didn't have time to eat there. The views of the Tutshi River are wonderful, and the suspension bridge is interesting, but there's not much else to it. It's a bridge to nowhere, because the other side just has some observation platforms, a few information placards, and a mock up of what a gold prospector's cabin might have looked like. The main side also has a restaurant, gift shop, and 2 sets of rest rooms. Frankly, it struck me as a tourist trap, but without knowing how much they charge the general public, it's hard for me to say. They will stamp your passport for free.
Don Davidson — Google review
Definitely worth a stop on our drive to whitehorse. This is a nice facility with lots to see. They feature cultural and geological information for tourists. There's spectacular views and a great reasonably priced gift shop. The restaurant was closed when we stopped. I assume that was because we came in off season. This a a great place to bring the whole family. Wheelchairs can't go across the suspension bridge but other than that a wheelchair should have decent access to the site. They have a mammoth tooth in the restaurant.
Xochitl Castaneda — Google review
Great snack bar! Get their famous bison chili!! Make sure you read the story of the miners along the path to the bridge. Someone has a wicked sense of humor. Best outdoor museum exhibit reading I've seen in a long time. Chilkoot Charters & Tours took us out there. Mike and Heidi were the best tour guides.
Greta Johnson Sher — Google review
Beautiful views!! We went here with a group tour to the Yukon sign (Southeast Tours), and stopped here along the way. The views were magnificent, the areas were clean and organized, and the staff was friendly.
We got some food at the cafe as well - the selection was limited to spend snacks and premade sandwiches, and a homemade bison chili. We got the chili and it was great! Overall, I definitely recommend checking this place out - you won't regret it!
David Nagel-Nunez — Google review
After a beautiful drive through the Yukon, we had such a fun time at the Suspension Bridge! They had a fun scavenger hunt for all ages. The views are incredible! Keep your eyes open for wildlife along the drive!
Audrey Rygmyr — Google review
This bridge is amazing. The owner was in the restaurant and was super nice and informative. The food was great. They have plans to build a museum eventually!
The views were incredible, and they added a Canadian flag for Canada Day. 🇨🇦 Definitely worth a stop.
Landon Fillmore — Google review
A unique experience in the Yukon. It's definitely worth doing once. We came on a sunny day, and the views were spectacular. The bridge takes you to a nice wooden walkway that offers great views and the opportunity to see a reconstruction of a miners cabin.
Edward Rutherford — Google review
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South, Klondike Hwy, Stikine Region, BC V0W 1A0, Canada
Carcross Desert, located just under an hour from Whitehorse, is a unique natural attraction that offers various outdoor activities. Despite being called a desert, it's not technically one due to its humid conditions and some vegetation. The area features sand dunes popular for hiking and sandboarding, as well as winter sports like snowboarding and cross-country skiing.
Beautiful drive down the South Klondike hwy to Carcross desert. Amazing landscape, a desert in the snowy mountains!
Ellie Kate — Google review
We loved visiting The Carcross Desert on May 14, 2023. Both my kids had fun dipping their feet in the soft sand! We would give it a 5 star rating, but due to uncontrollable elements, such as the wind causing the sand blowing into our eyes, we are giving a rating of 4 stars 😀
Akvabela M — Google review
I would say it a must if you go to Yukon. Nothing really exceptional about the place but the landscape is just so different from everything else around. I would suggest to go and take a stroll in the sand and enjoy the solitude and the emptiness of the desert
Felix Girard — Google review
One of my favorite stops on the Klondike Highway. Please be respectful of the site. The sand is slowly disappearing over the years.
Michael Gray — Google review
Smallest desert in Canada. At the end of August we walked without shoes there and we enjoy the magnificent view as we also had a good weather. Try to go in summer without shoes. So much fun.
Mapolenka S — Google review
Sand dunes with a beautiful view (if you climb to the top) we'll marked, directly off the highway. Outhouses, small parking area.
Sandra Overman — Google review
Very interesting place to visit. Feels like a different world when you get there.
Jacob Sneek — Google review
Nice desert!
Not too far from Whitehorse! Offer a nice view of lake, forest, sand and mountains at the same time! Wasn’t crowded and plenty space to explore!
Bring some sunglasses to protect you from the sand flying in your eyes when there is wind! It draws some nice pattern though!
Franck Boisseron — Google review
A place where you get to see the sand dunes and snow capped mountains at the same time. Beautiful place for off-roading and to walk dogs too.
Saw many dune buggies having a good time.
The dunes are pretty steep in some places.
Sweety Tripathy — Google review
It is amazing to see a desert in this area. The kids liked playing around in the sand dunes. The view of the mountains in the horizon was spectacular.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
Fun little stop on the side of the road. Lots of tour buses from Skagway were stopping here so was pretty busy. But lots of desert to walk across and tons of plants.
Amanda Hamell — Google review
it was a welcome change of scenery, although I think I would enjoy it even more if no ATVer with noises and dust
Cindy Butyn — Google review
A local Yukon favorite in the summer for walking, quading, or motor biking, this desert is actually a dune that wss part of Lake Bennett.
In the winter this is still a great spot for snow shoeing and tobogganing. It's close to Whitehorse so it's a great way to spend a weekend afternoon hanging out.
Dylan Soo — Google review
Great strange to have a dessert near a mountain full of snow.
Great views of you climb the dunes!!!! Amazing
Caribou Crossing Trading Post is a must-visit destination in Yukon, offering a unique experience with its Wildlife Museum featuring taxidermy exhibits of ancient and modern Northern creatures. The site also boasts a wildlife gallery, petting farm, and restaurant. Visitors can enjoy dog sled rides at specific times and interact with real sled dogs and puppies available for adoption. Additionally, the trading post provides clean facilities and friendly staff.
Greedy alpacas, aggressive goats, grumpy donkeys, elegant Spirit… always feel refreshing after visiting there. Food is awesome too by the way.
HJ Marshall — Google review
A pleasant trip to see sled dogs and take a dog sled ride . No snow though. Just ATV ride with dogs attached to give them exercise in the off season. Included lunch: BBQ chicken, Cole slaw, salad, lemonade. Donuts.
Sandra Bradley — Google review
We stopped here on our Skagway Tours bus. Food was great. The museum was informative. Got to pet the Alaskan huskies. All the staff are really friendly.
Adam Wright — Google review
It's not a bad place but not great either. Too long of a drive, food is mediocre. They have petting zoo with like 10 animals. The taxidermy museum is good
but nothing that you have not seen if you have been in a Natural History Museum like the Smithsonian. The staff is helpful and nice. We didn't ride the sleds because what I saw was a extralong four wheeler pulled by the dogs. Not impressed at all. Just the scenery in the way there and back.
Iberto Hernandez — Google review
Typical tourist attraction. The lunch ( included in our tour) was average. Friendly staff. Sled dogs & puppies were great. Free museum & petting zoo
allan pearl — Google review
An excellent spot for a bus stop with a great lunch.
The BBQ chicken lunch was flavourful and filling, with unlimited coffee and cinnamon doughnuts. Who could ask for more!
The museums on site are full of curiosities and artifacts from local history.
Lots of t-shirts and miscellaneous tourist stuff. The friendly staff were helpful. The washrooms were clean and modern.
.
Stewart Loy — Google review
Came here during a bus tour and we loved everything it had to offer! They had a dog kennel with sled tours as well as a wildlife museum and spots for food & drink. Chicken lunch was quite good & they offered complimentary tea & coffee as well as donuts. Just wish we had more time here!
For the dog kennels:
Came here during the summer so it was definitely not in season but was offered a great experience regardless! Admission to the kennel itself a free but dog sled tours are $45 per person for a 15 minute tour. While pricy, you can definitely see why it’s well worth it. They take great care of their dogs & even foster puppies as a partnership with the local humane society. Definitely recommend this!
Emma — Google review
Open in the summer,Carbon Crossing attracts tourists and locals alike. Located 45 minutes from Whitehorse or about an hour and 30 minutes from Skyway Alaska you will see tourists from both sides of the border.
There is a gift shop with Yukon items including clothing and toys. A full restaurant which primarily services bus tours and a cafe which serves sandwiches or snacks like ice cream.
The real attraction though is the live animals. You can pet horses, llamas, goats, and cute husky puppies. If you're up for seeing how huskies love to run you can book a mini sled pull where they have a team pull a side by side converted for guests.
If you are looking to get close to larger and more dangerous animals you can do that too. There is an exhibit with bears and various wild cats that are showcased.
Finally if animals aren't your thing, try your hand ar gold panning where you could catch some real gold with a steady hand, a good eye, and some patience!
Dylan Soo — Google review
Interesting place to spend an hour or so. The husky ride is more of a ride on a powered golf cart while the huskies run in front. The BBQ chicken isn't the best but it's edible if you're hungry, otherwise full up on the bread.
Olly Keeling — Google review
You have to try the dog sledding. It is so much fun, and the dogs are so smart and amazing! But watch the bumps! :-)
Cynthia Okocha — Google review
So cute. The petting zoo was great. All the animals would pose with you for a pic. There were a bunch of husky puppies to play with. Inside was a large room full of stuffed animals from their taxidermist. The provided lunch was good. There was a vegetarian dish, not sure what that was. We had chicken, potatoes, bread, and coleslaw. The chicken was very tender and juicy. They have a little gift shop for souvenirs. Clean bathrooms.
melissa laks — Google review
What an amazing place! We rented a car and drove 2 hours from Skagway. We bought the package before we went, and it was worth every cent! We started with a summer dog sledding tour followed by a short talk about this amazing sport. We then had a great BBQ chicken lunch. Great gift shop and wildlife museum. The petting zoo was amazing as well. What an experience in Yukon, Canada! The drive to get there is also fantastic!
Brian Wehner — Google review
We were here 6 years ago with our teenage kids when we were in Skagway for a port day. Our kids had fond memories of the dog sled ride, petting farm with the huskies, and museum. We were in port again last month with our kids and teenage grandkids. We didn’t go with a tour company both times and beat the crowd by coming early. We rented a car in Skagway both times. The staff are very friendly. Our kids and grandkids tell us that it was one of the highlights and memorable experiences they had during our Alaskan cruise. This is a great place for the entire family.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
Chicken dinner was great !! The shop was a little lackluster.. it didn’t offer much
The museum was great and I really enjoyed it !! The animals were also great and awesome
The service is also great !!
They do not accept American Express
Only visa and Mastercard
They do take cash
Bathrooms are very clean and the staff is very friendly !!
It was amazing to also see real sled dogs and puppies !!
Keep in mind the puppies are usually shelter dogs and not sled dogs. But they are available for adoption !!!
Kevin H — Google review
Went to Caribou Crossing on a tour of the Yukon. A really cool place like walking into the wild west. The food there was not bad, the chicken didn't have a lot of flavor and tasted old. But the rest of the food was not bad. The food was part of our tour through Viator. The people were friendly. They had sled dogs and various other animals like a petting zoo. Prices for souvenirs were a bit pricey but was expected.
Mark Kline — Google review
We drove from Skagway to Carcross after coming into Skagway on a cruise ship. It was a beautiful and scenic drive even seeing a bear alongside the highway and visited Caribou Crossing Trading Post. The staff was amazing being both friendly and knowledgable and the dogsled experience was a once in a lifetime experience and well worth the trip. The lunch they served was great and nice to be able to have a cold beer in the restaurant as well. The kids loved the puppies, goats and walking through the museum. Definitely recommend!
Joe Mitchell — Google review
Great time, friendly staff, good food. Lovely animals!
Seraphina Lilje (Monkeyfury) — Google review
We arrived here on a tour bus from a CRUISE SHIP. We had a nice meal of BBQ chicken, Cole slaw & roasted potato. There was self serve coffee & tea & some delicious donuts included. There was also soda & beer for sale. All of the meal staff were friendly & upbeat.
There was a nice gift shop that lead to a RCMP Mueseum & I think also a taxidermy Mueseum. Then there was a petting zoo area with goats, donkeys, a horse & pony, & PUPPIES 🐶! The puppies were being held for the humane society but there are also sled dogs.
Our family has 5 kids from 17 to 8. We all had fun. A bonus is we made it the Yukon. WOULD go again.
Mathew Goeldner — Google review
Chicken dinner supplied as part of our excursion was OK. I found it a little difficult to eat with the supplied wooden cutlery, but it's all in the name of reducing plastic use. The BBQ sauce was tasty. I found the coleslaw a little dry, I prefer a little more mayo on, but this is just me. The baked potato was a good size. Again, I would have preferred sour cream to go with it, but in the rustic flavor of the meal, it was OK.
The RCMP museum and animal taxidermy is a must see, along with petting the puppies. Let me know if the Daal sheep have moved.
Jewell Gardens is a flower and vegetable show garden located in Skagway, Alaska. The gardens are renowned for their impressive displays of wildflowers and vegetables, as well as their annual contest to see who could grow the biggest rhubarb.
My wife and I visited in October 2019 as part of the last ship of the season. We had a great time, picked up several gifts for friends and relatives and we each got a great globe keepsakes. I bought some display lights from Amazon and keep these in the living room. Aside form a great in-depth look at glass making, everyone there was supper fun and happy. The snacks were okay, but being end of the season I’m sure we didn’t have the normal experience. Due to weather we also didn’t get to explore, just the making and snacks. But still worth every penny.
Robert Androse Glover — Google review
We booked a glass blowing experience on the website in May, only to arrive 9/15/21 to find out they have been closed all season. Had to walk the 2 miles from the ship as the shuttle driver told us they had were closed and no buses. Since they had our $284 and had confirmed our booking we thought maybe someone would be there. No luck, but the lawn guy let us look at the gardens. Hoping Max will refund my money promptly.
Suzanne Rempfer — Google review
When they're open, and when they're in the zone, this is easily one of the best restaurants in town. Great staff, epic setting, just outside town across the bridge... yes. Recommend.
William Lockette — Google review
I visited here a couple of times as a seasonal resident. The events they host are well put together and the grounds are beautiful. Staff has always been super friendly to other workers in town and are always helpful.
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a historic train ride that takes you up steep tracks carved into the sides of mountains, through charming small towns and then across glaciers and waterfalls. It is a must-do for those visiting Skagway for the first time, as it combines history and nature to give you an amazing glimpse of Alaskas stunning scenery.
Science train ride. Employees are very courteous and informative. Great value for the money. Train passes through a lot of curves and peak of the mountain. Good outing for the family.
Abhi Saxena — Google review
Great excursion! The train cars appear to be brand new and well maintained. There is a stove in each car to heat it if necessary. There is also a bathroom and water. You can either view from your seat or go outside to the viewing platform. Due to covid border restrictions, the train is currently only doing round-trip journeys to the Canadian border in 2022. The views are amazing and you are given great historical information as you travel. The track is also very well maintained and you can see evidence of constant work and upgrades.
Michelle Denault — Google review
Absolutely amazing. It's no wonder this is one of the "Scenic railways of the world"
Great narration, comfortable, incredible views. Take a car as far back as possible so you can enjoy the outside of the train snake around the curves and through tunnels. A must do if in the area
Christa L (American Girl Doll) — Google review
We did the bus ride up to the summit and rode the train back down. It was incredibly beautiful and worth every penny. The history was really interesting and very well presented. The staff on both the bus and the train know their stuff! You need your passport, as you do go through Canada 🇨🇦, so custom agents check you before you can get off the bus and again before you get off the train.
Michelle Hammers — Google review
Super unique experience in Skagway! Took this train on the way back after spending a day in Yukon and it was well worth it. The train itself is quite rustic in a good way and offers scenic views of the surrounding land. It was also narrated which was great in letting us know what to look for. They had complimentary water & washrooms on board as well as hat for purchase for $5 each.
Emma — Google review
This is a must do if you’re in the area. The train ride is very scenic and beautiful with plenty of opportunities for pictures. It is staffed with park rangers who are very knowledgeable of the area and who can answer any questions that you may have. The train cars are warm and weatherproof so if you are in inclement weather, this would not be an issue. That being said if it is very foggy out, it would be a waste of time, because so much of what makes us a great trip is the scenery which you would miss if you were fogged in. Lots of opportunities to see wildlife, especially eagles.
Sean & Kristin Parsons — Google review
Great tour! Very beautiful scenery! Took the 2.5 hour tour to the summit. Heated cars and bathrooms made the trip comfortable. I would definately go again.
Tim Lemons — Google review
We had a great time riding this train up through the mountain passes and enjoyed all the scenic vistas. The narrative was informative but sometimes difficult to hear over the click and clack of the track. The train loops at the summit so both sides get different views. Well worth it!
Robert Prejza — Google review
Highly recommend! Gorgeous scenery! Our family took this train you the top and the took Sock Eye Cycles back down the mountain. Absolutely perfect scenery and atmosphere on the train. So much snow that made many waterfalls! Fully recommend going in May.
Jodie Hodges — Google review
This was a great day. Highly recommend taking bus up from Skagway all the way to Yukon territory.
Along the way the bus will slow down/stop when you see 🐻/wildlife and also stop for lunch and other opportunities to see breathtaking views.
Then come back down to Frazer to take the train back. Gives you different prospective of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and so much more!
Simon Cope — Google review
What an amazing train ride. The history that was told along the ride was captivating. The train had about 100 people but there was plenty of window space to get your own window views. We traveled 18 miles up the mountainside. I would have loved the Yukon Route but I believe that ride was about 110 miles. (Not sure we would have had the time)
Joel Keefer — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. We did a cruise ship excursion through Alaska 360 and this was one component of the tour. Some other options are longer and stop in Canada, which requires your passport, so make sure you know if you need it! Neat trip. Loved it.
jz twinzmom — Google review
Absolutely beautiful scenery with a knowledgeable tour guide. Took the White Pass Summit Tour, and the ride can take 2-3 hours, depending on the weather.
Sarcastodon — Google review
An amazing excursion but quite expensive!
The train cars appear to be brand new and well maintained. There is a stove in each car if required. There is also a bathroom and free water. You can either view from your seat or go outside to the viewing platform, which is exposed. Due to covid border restrictions, the train is currently only doing round-trip journeys to the Canadian border. The views are amazing and you are given great historical information as you travel. The track is also very well maintained and you can see evidence of constant work and upgrades.
Pooja Pow — Google review
Just incredible. We were so happy to go in early May while the mountains were still covered in snow. The gorgeous weather offered fantastic views and the train ride through the white pass was incredible. Definitely a memory I will hold dear for years to come.
Julie Jordan — Google review
The views from this train ride were spectacular. The history comes to life riding in the old rail cars. It's amazing to think this rail line was built by hand and even more incredible, people hiked this route to get to the gold rush in the Yukon. Very cool experience. You can also take one of the scheduled rides and be dropped off and picked up at the glacier hike trail.
Cathy Anderson — Google review
Experienced the railway ride from Skagway to Bennett and the Yukon all on a glorious summer day. I would give this 6 stars if possible. The terrain covered by this railway cannot be matched. Mountains, lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, the best of our planet. The seating was very comfortable and the staff very friendly. Standing on the rear platform allowed me to capture some stunning photos and video. Easily the highlight of our 7 day Alaskan cruise. Make sure you take the full ride up to Carcross Yukon. Especially if you love trains.
Ron Hebert — Google review
This was an awesome excursion! The scenery is beautiful, the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. We learned a lot about the area and the gold rush. Definitely sit on the left side of the car if leaving from Skagway. Stop in the train store after, or before for all your train needs. If you like old trains, history, and beautiful scenery, this trip is a definite yes!
Kelly H — Google review
The White Pass Railway Tour was absolutely outstanding! From start to finish, it was an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and historical insights. The journey through the rugged Alaskan wilderness was like stepping into a postcard, with towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes all around.
The guides on the train were not only informative but also incredibly engaging, sharing fascinating stories about the construction of the railway and the Gold Rush era. I felt like I was transported back in time, experiencing a piece of history.
The train itself was comfortable, and the large windows allowed for uninterrupted views of the awe-inspiring landscape. The route, with its twists, turns, and dramatic changes in elevation, kept me captivated throughout the journey.
I couldn't get enough of the stunning waterfalls, the mesmerizing Summit Lake, and the majestic trestle bridges. And when we reached the White Pass Summit, the feeling of accomplishment and the panoramic views were simply unforgettable.
This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the region. It's an extraordinary way to connect with the natural beauty and history of Alaska. The White Pass Railway Tour exceeded my expectations in every way and left me with memories that will last a lifetime.
Jl Mendez — Google review
Beautiful ride up the mountain for a little piece of history. I would definitely plan this ride if you make this trip, it's well worth it. The views are amazing. My only suggestion would be to bring some kind of seat cushion with you because the seats are horrible and uncomfortable. Enjoy the train ride!
Jodie Wood — Google review
This train ride is the best train ride i will probably ever take! It is so comfortable and relaxing that you want to doze off at times. What wakes you up are the breathtaking sights and the freshest air you could ever inhale. I loved my time in Alaska and I loved this train ride!
Helena Aredo — Google review
We enjoyed our train ride. It felt plenty long, ample opportunity for photos and video. We even briefly crossed into Canada before looping back. I gave it five stars, but I do wish there was an option to wear a headset to listen to the guided tour. We had an unusually loud group of people in our particular train car, so we couldn't hear the majority of the information over the speakers that the guide was sharing. We enjoyed the scenery and appreciated that there was a restroom in each train car. They also offered complimentary bottled water. Overall, we loved our train ride.
Alyssa Springs — Google review
I had a fantastic experience at the White Pass Train Railway Station! Not only is it famous, but it also offers a wonderful array of amenities. The souvenirs store, with its partial sale, was a treat to explore, offering a variety of unique items to remember the journey by. The café provided a cozy atmosphere to relax and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views. The convenience of the ticket counter made the entire process seamless. This station truly enhances the already breathtaking White Pass Train journey and is a must-visit for anyone looking to make their trip unforgettable.
Formerly a brothel, the lively Red Onion Saloon in Skagway is an amazing stop for drinks and American eats in a lively setting. The bar is frequented by tourists and locals alike, with its history being a main draw. Plus, at the top of the stairs there's a museum dedicated to America's oldest profession - prostitution.
This place is hands down the best brothel I’ve ever been to. Great pizza and fantastic margaritas! Also has an amazing vibe, kind of like the dive bar you’ve always wanted in your life.
Krista Dixon — Google review
Fun, historic, restaurant serving food and alcohol in a 1800's-style brothel atmosphere. The "Ladies" (including the waitresses) wear period-style costumes and play-up the characters of the time, along with the double-innuendo and word-play you'd expect in such a location.
This is a popular site to visit when the cruise ships come in, so there may be a wait for seating - especially during meal-hours.
Dave Skorupski — Google review
We visited here on a stop during our excursion while on our cruise on the Celebrity Millennium. Great little stop. Tour guides were in period costumes and were both friendly and funny. Tour showcased some local history.
Blaise Vitale — Google review
Home of the $10 "Quickie"... Tour. Once a place for lady's of the night and men of the gold rush era to come together and enjoy the warm of each others company. The saloon gets a old time feel all staff are dressed to the era. The bar offers local brews and you can also get a bite to eat. Wraps and pizza.
Hungry Sparrow — Google review
Meet historic building that used to be a brothel. They still give tours of the upstairs, and the downstairs is a bar and restaurant. I know it seems very cliche, but we ordered the pizza and the nachos and it was fantastic. Especially after being on cruise food for several days. They offer a tour for $10. I think our meal was about $25 total. Which is not bad considering you were in Alaska
My rating system consists of a 3-star being exactly what I expected and neither good nor bad. A 4 means something was extra special whether it was service, food, staff, etc., and a 5 means I was blown away. A 2 star rating was disappointing with no offer to correct the experience and a 1-star rating was terrible
Joe Taylor — Google review
Oh just a really fun place. Good food. Atmosphere was awesome. We took the tour from the ship that included breakfast and drinks and a tour and stories. Neat ro hear of the history nad fun to have breakfast with Madam Onya Johnson and Madam Ophelia Cockburn. Take the tour if you have time. Yes they practice good covid protocols.
Tim N — Google review
Went here for dinner on a recommendation and was not disappointed. The pizza was very good and the staff very engaging. Awesome saloon vibe and great place to relax after a day of exploring. If you find yourself in Skagway for any reason, this place is a must.
Mel Brousseau — Google review
We did not want to eat dinner on the ship so we decided to walk back into town for some dinner. Red Onion Saloon was a blast. The bar and original floors are just beautiful. It's an old Brothel so a really unique experience. The food was very good and the service was nice as well. They also offer tours. Highly recommend giving this place a shot. (Beer was also cold and tasty.)
Randall B — Google review
We walked by this place at lunch and the line blocked the sidewalk and a lane of traffic.
We went back into town and grabbed 2 pizzas to take back to the ship, and I understand why.
Fantastic pizzas. Friendly service. Great vibe.
Joshua ODaniell — Google review
Fun historic Bordelello Breakfast, gold rush cemetery & city tour. Bloody Marys & other Frank's included. JIM was a great guide
Nedra Crouse — Google review
This place is unique. An old timey saloon with its own fun quirks. At one time it was a brothel and the original structure, crib rooms and trinkets are still on display. The "Quickie" was a fun 20min tour of the Brothel Museum and it was worth it. The girls were FABULOUS. They did a great job explaining the history and creating fun ways to make little things (like wallpaper, IYKYK) incredibly interesting.
The pizza is delicious. The Dirty LaVoie is wonderful. The server we had on a busy Saturday night was quite the ball of joy. Even though she stayed WAY later than her shift was (I think someone called in ? Or something) she stayed and helped set up the band coming in (New Twin) and still waited all the tables. She even recognized us the following day when we came back from the Quickie.
Definitely a stop you should make while you're in Skagway.
BreeAnna Erickson — Google review
This was a nice little stop with a brothel museum upstairs.
The food was good, and the museum tour upstairs was pretty cool. I'm not sure it was worth $10 a person, but it is what it is. The server was a little short it seemed and failed to explain that we could pay the brothel for fee to her on our bill and needed to pay cash. The madam, Willie, was pretty great actually.
Matthew Blackburn — Google review
Totally worth the visit. The cocktails are great, but make sure you try the local distillery selection of hard liquors. Our favorite was a rye from a neighboring town.
The $10 tour couldn’t have been better. Our guide was informative and funny and completely made our day.
The bartender (I think her name is Katie?) was super fun and knowledgeable. We had the best time for under $100
While we didn’t try the food, the couple next to us had the hummus platter, which looked amazing and we might go back for it on our way from the cemetery. The couple said the plate was really great and the bartenders said ‘Told ya so’, which to me means it’s a *thing* there.
The place smells amazing too. Like pizza and good times. Absolutely worth an investment of time!
J O — Google review
Our group did the brothel tour and it was very well done by our guide. They played the part in a fun but very educational way that kept you interested - highly recommend!
Madison Davis — Google review
Took the Brothel Tour with Madam Betty. No worries, it's a walking tour of Skagway. It's a great history tour that tells the sordid and dangerous times during the gold rush of the 1800s. Betty was fun, sassy and very knowledgeable about everything. It was eye opening about life back then, for both the miners and the ladies.
Richard Miller — Google review
Pizza was on point! In all honesty, the cauliflower crust was better than the regular! On top of the loaded nachos being perfectly made!
D B — Google review
A very interesting little saloon in the heart of town that should be on your must-see list for Skagway. We only had a beer here but they do have a food menu as well. Prices for both food and drink are fair. They offer upstairs brothel tours at designated times for $10.
Miles Canyon is a recreational canyon that formed about 8.5 million years ago and is located just minutes away from downtown Whitehorse. The area features basalt cliffs, rapids, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. In the past, gold prospectors faced treacherous waves at Miles Canyon before a hydroelectric dam was constructed to calm the waters.
Absolutely stunning views. Highly recommend taking a hike to view Miles Canyon. The suspension bridge offers great views and an absolute geological marvel.
Kian Shoai — Google review
Pristine water and beautiful colors of the canyon. It's a painter, photographer heaven. Lucky to visit it on a Lovely day and admire it's whole beauty.
As far as services there are a few box toilets ,a bridge that leads you to multiple trails and a information board. The hike to the bridge from the parking is hardly a minute. Though there are not a lot of parking spots, on road parking is available till a mile.
There are two small grounds which make for a nice picnic spot on both sides of the bridge.
Sumeet Sharma — Google review
Nature’s gift to man. Clean. Fresh water in canyon. Green smooth water flowing. Wonderful experience for a Naija boy.
'Kole Oladimeji — Google review
What a sweet spot. I know it's on the recommended things to do in whitehorse. But saying that it wasnt one bit busy. As you can see from the video we had the whole lot to ourselves.
Irish Outdoorsman — Google review
Beautiful spot 15 mins from downtown Whitehorse. No need to pay for a tour if you can get a cab there. We spent a few hours here. The trails are beautiful. Be sure you bring proper footwear. The Black trail and Yellow trails both have pathways that can be a little slippery. There are two access points from roads. I recommend stopping at the visitors center in whitehorse for directions and to ask which access routes are open if you are traveling in winter.
Renee Laporta — Google review
Very close to whitehorse. I loved the it. They offer guided tours on specific days/hours. This attraction is worth visiting.
Abdullah El-Safadi — Google review
This is how it looks on April first week really good place to hike. The through road is closed in winter so have to walk 10 more minutes to get here.
ASCHARYA P A — Google review
Only 10 minutes drive from downtown Whitehorse, this canyon both wild and incredibly beautiful. One of my favourite places visited during the trip driving to Tuktoyaktuk from Ontario.
Lazy Travellers — Google review
Excellent walking area along the Yukon River - and a suspension bridge! Easy access with free parking and free tours during the day.
Local walking trail map at the entrance. Careful along the edges of the river, as the 6m cliffs are not fenced. Bring a picnic and enjoy the spectacular views very near to Whitehorse.
William Szepesi — Google review
Such a beautiful location! The Color of the water is stunning! Hiking trails - two levels - upper and lower - which gives good opportunity for photos and scenery. 5:5
J H — Google review
Great lil walk for all ages. Id be a little nervous with an off leash dog. Pretty quick walk and very scenic, splits into numerous other trails further on. It has its busy moments but if you wait them out, it's worth the view!
T — Google review
A must visit if you are in the area!
Beautiful hike with so much to see.
Taha Awadhi — Google review
Lovely stop and fun to go over the bridge. Not a ton of parking at the bottom but more along the road. Tons of trails connect from here as well. Viewpoint overlook up the road.
Amanda Hamell — Google review
I have visited Miles Canyon twice, in September 2022 and September 2023. I hiked down from Whitehorse in 2022. I cycled down in 2023. It's a bit of a hike down but on a sunny day it is great! The Canyon is a 'must-do' when you are visiting Whitehorse. Cycling down is quicker of course, but Miles Canyon Road offers some incredible views from one of the Look-Outs. The Canyon and trails are easy to navigate, but be careful along areas immediately adjacent to the water below. Use common sense. Trails have decent signage. Guaranteed that you will be snapping plenty of photos. Wear good shoes with traction or hiking boots. Have a wonderful time!
Raymond Ivey — Google review
Beautiful spot for a easy and short hike with a cool suspension bridge. Not much of an elevation. Parking can get tight during busy times. Portable toilets by the upper parking lot area. Can get quite windy. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site is a vintage sternwheeler ship that played a significant role in transportation during the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush and remained an essential mode of transport for decades afterward. The largest sternwheeler of its time, the SS Klondike II was built from original parts salvaged from the first ship after it sank and transported ore from silver mines between Mayo and Whitehorse until 1955.
Enjoyed my stay at Whitehorse. The S.S. Klondike was, definitely, a highlight of my stay, being able to board and explore the Klondike was quite the experience.
Bernadette Tavares — Google review
Such a cool boat and history! Finally got to see if and knock it off my bucket list.
Michael Gray — Google review
Love the history behind the S.S. Klondike. It has been preserved beautifully. I recommend reading through the fact boards since they do have some phenomenal fun facts!
Vittoria Trinchi — Google review
Looks like a great experience, but the ship was closed for repairs. There isn't a completion date at this time. There was an outside tour available and two movies. The staff was great! They answered questions and offered information about the ship. 3 stars simply because of the closure.
Nancy Isenberg — Google review
Stopped in to visit this museum and ended up hopping on a tour that had just started for an extra $10.
The tour was interesting, very professionally done by parks Canada, and the other visitors struck up a conversation and asked good questions. I recommend the tour rather than just looking around, as you feel more like you have experienced the real thing.
William Szepesi — Google review
Very nice old historical vessel. Very good prepared and restored. We learned a lot on how shipping of freight was conducted in former decades. You can explore the ship on your own, take a self guided tour with an info flyer booklet (2$), or the guided tour aproxm. 6$. Ask and register in the visitor Centre in front of the cruiser. We met also the resident fox family. Very nice 3h trip in whitehorse.
Silvan Stucki — Google review
Nice movie detailing the history of the stern wheelers on the Yukon. The guided tour of the ship was disappointing because restoration work prevented us from going inside. That was supposed to be done in May. None-the-less, our guide was excellent and it was well worth stopping at the park.
Terry Moore — Google review
I didn’t do the tour, but there was an informative historical video (about 20 minutes) and a brochure that was about $2 which explained everything you need to know about the boat. While the boat is undergoing repairs and only the lower level is able to be accessed at the time of writing (July 2023), it was still a worthwhile place to visit while in Whitehorse.
Dane B — Google review
While they are in the midst of doing restoration, the cargo level and engine room areas were open for viewing today. The self-guided tour leaflet was a helpful guide. If you have a national park pass, you can use it for free admission. The film that was shown in the building next to the visitor center/gift shop was very Inter with original footage of the riverboats on the Yukon River.
Corinne Severn — Google review
Worth the stop, a marvel of the time. $4.70 per adult, kids go free. You can get guided or self guided tours. Free informative mini documentary next to the visitor centre.
George Barnes — Google review
Although the ship was not open, it's great to have a preserved steamship, and I like how accessible it is in terms of being able to walk around the ship so close to it, to marvel at it, take photos, and read the contents of the description boards around the ship, even at night in the middle of winter. It was also beautifully lit up! The only thing was many of the boards around the ship were dark and can't be read unless I turn my flashlights on -- it would be a lot nicer if there were illuminating lights!
Andrew Yin — Google review
It is great to see the real SS Klodike there not only on the picture. I hope to come back one day in summer time to see it inside
Aneta Lekas — Google review
The museum was closed when we arrived. But it's still a cool piece of history to go take a look at.
Phil W — Google review
Cool stop! Loved the history. Definitely hit the visitor center and watch the movie while you’re there too.
Lisa S — Google review
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4.5
(639)
10 Robert Service Way, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1V8, Canada
The MacBride Museum of Yukon History showcases the natural, social, economic, and industrial history of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits on First Nations culture and beadwork as well as artifacts from the gold rush era. The museum boasts a large collection of photographs and relics from this time period, including old machinery and tools.
Interesting exhibits and artifacts about Yukon's history and culture. Definitely larger than I expected. The bus from the airport drops you almost right in front of it - I would recommend anyone visiting Whitehorse to include this museum in their itinerary.
Janice Chau — Google review
Took an educational tour of the Gold Rush exhibit and it was fascinating! Students loved the exhibits and interactive activities. Our guide was great. The animal exhibit also proved popular.
Fiorella Calderoni — Google review
This place is really an excellent tourist spot to learn about Yukon ‘s history and local culture. There are fantastic exhibits of animals, First Nations art, photographs, detailed exhibits of the history of gold rush. Staff were very helpful and knowledgeable. Took us a couple of hours to explore.
Asmita Chakraborty — Google review
This is an excellent museum. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Parking is $2/2 hour max on street parallel with the river. If you park on Main St. Max of 1 hour only. If you want free parking, there is a park near the bridge and it is all day and only a few blocks walk along the waterfront. You can also get a 3 day free parking pass if you request it from the visitor centre and have out of territory plates.
This museum starts with some artifacts, beautiful art and history of the First Nations people that first inhabited the territory & some taxidermy animals native to area on the ground level.
There are sections with the history of the impact of the gold rush era and changes in transportation and it’s effects. Dog sleds, trains, boats and airplanes. Information about the cold and how clothing developed with it. On the pep middle floor it has an art gallery with photographs and paintings of life and people from the Yukon. Also, a few exterior cabins and displays to check out. I was there in March so some were not accessible because of the snow.
There is a small gift shop at the entrance & they host special events sometimes. When I visited they were getting ready for an art class to paint like the Yukon artist Ted Harrison.
It took me several visits to see everything but I read all of it. It was well worth the $12.
j H — Google review
We are lucky to have free entrance to the museum and we are surprised how big it is. There are tons of artifacts and we spend way longer time than we expected. Also the Japanese lady working in front desk is very nice. We came to the museum 20 mins before it’s closed and we are very worried if we don’t have enough time. However the lady said she’ll be wait for us. She is so nice :)
Norma Yang — Google review
An excellent museum about the Yukon and the history of the Yukon with artifacts galore and recreations of a saloon, radio studio, and store. First Nations art is beautifully displayed and there is a whole gallery of stuffed animals which isn't as offputting as you might think. There is also Sam McGee's cabin and the story of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Julian Worker — Google review
An excellent piece of Yukon history is presented here in a comfortable well thought out venue with twists. A mix of documentation and real artifacts, there is something for everyone. And don't. It's the gold panning daily at 2pm.
William Szepesi — Google review
Excellent museum - deceptively large. The museum gives an good history of the indigenous peoples in the area, the Klondike Gold rush as well as the communities made (or destroyed) as the Alaska Highway was built. $12 for adults is a reasonable entrance fee.
Carolyn Matson — Google review
Excellent museum. Lovely staff. Very well informed. Recommend a visit.
Louise Spraggon — Google review
Very interesting place to visit to learn about the history of the Yukon. It has several different styles of exhibits and everything is nicely laid out. The section with Yukon wildlife is especially interesting.
Julia — Google review
It’s a must do if you are in Whitehorse. Some sections were like stepping into a different time. It’s a small museum, can finish in about 2 hours easily but everything packed a punch and I was fascinated and learned a lot about the amazing Yukon. My trip wouldn’t have been complete without this stop.
girish chandok — Google review
What a beautiful place to visit. The exhibits were informative and engaging. The Yukon is so rich in history, and MacBride museum was a wonderful place to explore this?
wanda lloyd — Google review
Amazing museum with tonnes to see, a good way to spend the day. Very friendly staff as well.
Michael Gray — Google review
Really nice museum about Whitehorse and Yukon in general. I especially loved the animal exhibit. They have several small exhibit rooms inside and outside and extra arts exhibits upstairs. Admission was around 12$. Manageable in 1-1.5 hours.
Chilkoot River offers a great opportunity to witness bears at the fish weir. It's a prime spot for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as they hunt for salmon.
(Translated by Google) Good opportunity for bear sightings at the fish weir
(Original)
Gute Möglichkeit auf Bärensichtungen am Fischwehr
I had a wonderful experience filming with animals. Getting up close and interaction with the animals is unforgettable. Steve works very hard to care for all of them, and he was very gracious in accommodating our requests and making us comfortable! His animal family is fortunate for his experience and care.
Thank you for everything Steve!
Danielle Dufault — Google review
Steve is a knowledgeable host that clearly has a close bond with his animals. Patrick really made my visit so memorable, making sure my sister, son & his fiance and I had one on one time with the animals. I wish I would have gotten a photo with him. I wanted to stay in one of their cabins and never leave. I look at my photos every day. The porcupine was my favorite. And I'm from there, not even a tourist. I returned to Seattle and still think about The Wildlife Center every day.
Katrina Hooper — Google review
This place is really cool. Animal sanctuary in Haines Alaska, several miles outside of town.
The owner is a happy eccentric whose love and passion for animals pervades his life, from all indications.
Wolverines, moose, caribou, mink, bears, and other animals can be seen here - all well-cared for by the staff.
Vincent Watson — Google review
Interesting place where it is obvious that there is much love and care for the animals here. Informative tour overall.
The only downfall is that the tour group was too large so it made it uncomfortable to stand around and wait your turn to see the animals. I think that our tour could have been split into 2 groups instead of one large one.
The bus ride from the cruise port was great. The bus driver was EXTREMELY interesting and full of fun stories. The bus ride to and from the Kroschel Wildlife Centre was one of our most favorite bus rides in all of the tours we have taken... and we take A LOT!!!
Tori Carter — Google review
This place was amazing! It was hotter then Texas that day and I loved every minute of it! The guides are awesome and know so much about the animals and have great relationships with them. They work so hard at keeping the animals in a great atmosphere still wild and natural. I wish I could stay and just hang out with them.
Carrie Cook — Google review
I would give this 6 stars if I could. We went as part of a cruise ship excursion and everything was amazing from the bus driver to everyone working there. The animals were well cared for and we got amazing photos. We had a 2 year old with us and you will need to watch kids closely as these are wild animals (no fingers in fences!). Like others said it was a decent amount of walking on dirt paths and not stroller friendly. There was a gift shop at the end. There were also a couple of bathrooms.
Amanda Weissman — Google review
Toured the center as an excursion via Princess Cruise Lines and by far one of my favorite excursions of the trip. Connecting to animals was amazing and my daughter had a blast. She was very fond of Duck Henry and his caribou neighbors, although her joy of feeding them may leader to an ungulate obesity epidemic.
Derek Hissam — Google review
Steve was amazing at teaching us and keeping our kids attention. The experience is a must!!! Worth every penny and they truly care about the animals
Holly D. — Google review
We had such a great day at the Center. Mr. Kroschel was a great story teller of the animals. We learned so much and enjoyed each and every animal we were able to see. Our bus driver, was excellent. She told us so many local stories and helped us spot wildlife along the way. If you are not sure if you should do this tour or another. Choose this one. You will be happy you did.
Julie Wuerfel — Google review
An absolute one of a kind special place! Highly recommend. Steve is incredibly unique and entertaining! My family and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute here. Wish we could have stayed longer
Michelle Gratton — Google review
What an amazing experience. This is by far one of if not THE best excursions I've taken while cruising. Steve, Mario and Mario's daughter were fantastic. They are information and use humor to keep things lively. They should be nominated for a humanitarian award for all that they do for education and the environment. This is a long review so in the words of Steve. "Hey Mario, they are losing interest so it's time to move along"
The Yukon Wildlife Preserve is a vast 350-acre sanctuary located just half an hour's drive from Whitehorse. The preserve offers visitors family-friendly nature programs and stunning views of the region's varied wildlife, including moose, muskoxen, mountain goats, bison, deer, caribou, elk and two kinds of thinhorn sheep. The animals can be seen in their natural habitats within distinct environments such as wetlands and cliffs.
It's like an arctic rehab centre/zoo, there's probably about 20 species in spacious pens including cliff ranges for the mountain goats. It makes the animals hard to view sometimes but it's a natural and humane habitat. Most people seem to take driving tours where they get off on foot at designated viewing areas, but others also just bike or pull a sled the entire way around. It's very quiet and peaceful.
Janice Chau — Google review
Very welcoming and informative staff. Sights were amazing and I got to see all of the animals. There is an option to walk the area ~5.5 km/3.4 miles or you can go on a bus and stop at the various habitats in the preserve. Would definitely recommend, great experience!
Bradyn Andres — Google review
Located about 20min from Whitehorse. They have a bus you can pre arrange for groups.
I chose to walk the 5km figure 8 route. I went in April. Weather was good and fresh. A bit of ice but still easy to find bare sections for the walk. I unfortunately didn’t have my Cannon camera with me so my photos are limited by the lens of my phone camera. Still, it was a beautiful day and I did spot most of the animals. I missed the lynx and red fox and moose but I managed to get shots of the rest.
The walk was peaceful and the scenery is beautiful. They had a turnout of 400 for the Easter Egg hunt the weekend before. So they have special events and school tours as well. Staff was fantastic- personable and informative.
j H — Google review
Cool place to visit - our tour guide was Doug! He was charming and knowledgeable. There was a variety of wild
Animals, such as Moose, Elk, Mountain Goats/Sheep, predatory birds. The compound was well kept, animals all seemed content. Walking or guided tours available. Great for school
Children.
J H — Google review
Really nice visit. We booked the bus tour as it was very cold (-20C) and we were so happy we did! Andrew (our guide and bus driver) was really nice and very knowledgeable. We got lots of explanations and anecdotes about the Yukon wildlife and the history of the preserve. Definitively recommend it!
Roxane C. — Google review
We arrived later than expected but we had a great time! Beautiful wildlife and scenery! We saw most of the animals except the Arctic fox; they said she was hiding. We got to see the red fox bathing in the sun. We were struggling to return to the office on time before closing. They were so nice, they sent the bus to get us so we got to learn more about the park and the animals. Cool place to visit! Allow extra time to watch the animals and take your time to walk the distance.....
Sharon Lu Fortin — Google review
An amazing place and a wonderful experience. It was great to see all of the animals roaming freely in their habitats. Our tour guide, Andrew was knowledgeable about all of the animals and did a phenomenal job showing my husband and I around on our private tour! I highly recommend going here, nature at its finest.
Chelsea Thistle — Google review
Staff is great but get ready for walking a lot. The entrance fee for adult is $18, but if you take the bus tour is $28. I recommend to take the tour bus if you’re not into walking, or you can ride your bike as well.
It’s a 5k walking route, it might take you 2 hours to walk the whole way. We couldn’t see many animals though, they seem to be hiding away, but we could watch some of them from far.
They have public toilets all the way.
Caroline Toledo — Google review
Such an incredible experience. Our guide was so enthusiastic and informative and it was great to hear about the animals and the history of the preserve. We were lucky enough to see all the animals up close and take some amazing photos. Really cheap and easy to book and definitely would recommend to anyone visiting whitehorse. Thanks for making our trip from Aus worthwhile!
Zoe Maverick — Google review
We took a guided tour here in this reserve from Whitehorse. We saw several moose, bison, caribou, arctic fox, mountain goat , sheep , lynx here. The reserve is very beautiful in winter conditions. It is a great place for a 2/3 hour day trip and some great wildlife photography. I will recommend this place and will definitely visit in summer/ fall.
Asmita Chakraborty — Google review
I think we were just unlucky and did not get the views we thought we were going to have for some great photos.
The people were very welcoming and friendly. The walking path is easy to walk even with a cane.
Sean McConnery — Google review
Would highly recommend the bus tour, our tour guide was Maureen. She had a vast wealth of knowledge about the preserve’s history and all the different types of animals in the preserve. She was able to answer every question the tour group posed to her. The preserve does good work and it’s cool to see some of the animals so up close.
Dane B — Google review
Well worth the visit. Bring binoculars for some, they are given huge areas to roam, but some will be up close anyway because of food location or they find the bus interesting. Go here and then go to the hot springs.
Even if you like walking, the bus tour (1.5-2 hours) is really informative, and stops at each animal. You can always walk it again after if you like (probably same amount of time depending on how long you stop at each animal). Thanks Megan for the great tour!
David Caldarelli — Google review
It’s honestly beautiful, we were able to see almost every animal. We didn’t do the bus tour, just walked but the bus happened to be there at some of our stops and it was truly great to listen to the guide ⭐️
Candelaria Sartori — Google review
What a gem! I've never been anywhere with such large enclosures for the animals. Be prepared to walk, because it is a huge place. We had great views of most of the animals. It was very peaceful as well. We're fast walkers (two adults, no kids), and it took us nearly two hours to do the whole thing.
Teresa Maynes — Google review
We enjoyed the tour. Some of the wildlife were close enough to see but a few were in hiding. It is great that they have an abundance of land to roam and get away from us tourists but wish I saw the moose and the lynx on this visit.
Susan Nicks — Google review
Lovely quiet place to visit if you’re keen to go on a 5 km walk around the park or be escorted by bus.
Animals are given spacious grounds to roam on which can make it difficult to spot them sometimes.
Gioconda Ward — Google review
It was one of our highlights in Yukon! We were lucky enough to see a ton of wildlife up close. If you’re going without a bus tour, you can rent a kick sled. We also picked up a cute magnet at their gift shop, all proceeds go back to helping the animals.
Amity Chiang — Google review
We visited with our Girl Guide unit from Vancouver, BC. The Wildlife Preserve was one of the highlights of our trip to the Yukon!
Brittney, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable, and shared interesting information in a fun and engaging way. She was fantastic!
We also appreciated the large and natural enclosures for the animals.
Definitely recommend a visit to the Wildlife Preserve if visiting the Yukon!
Nicole Fritz — Google review
My partner and I had an amazing time at Yukon Wildlife Preserve in March. It was really nice to learn so much about the history of the area and our guide gave us so much information about all of the animals. I highly recommend doing the VIP tour because you get to be there while they feed either the Lynx or Fox, it was a great experience! We'll be back in the Summer months!
Callum Snape — Google review
Their educational tours are fantastic for young people, our group learned a lot. The stories of rescue animals that end up in their care, whether for rehabilitation or the rest of their lives, are moving. 100% of gift shop proceeds go to the preserve.
Fiorella Calderoni — Google review
Definitely one of the highlights every time we visit the Yukon! Highly recommended the bus tours especially when it's chilly out and the guides are great. A great activity to do with kids :)
Tessa Kenning — Google review
Highly recommend. Take a bus tour, you will learn a lot about wildlife and histories. Trying to find a silver black color red fox is really interested. Good for kids and family visits!!!!
Lonely place in the world. You can hear the Angels whispering and smell God's love. A great moment to ask why on earth we live, where are we from, and where we will go.
Ye Josh — Google review
Amazing experience!
Andrea Spallanzani — Google review
Go here! 5/5
G K — Google review
5.0
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5.0
(1431)
Gustavus, AK 99826, USA
27
Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre
Visitor center
Nature & Parks
National Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
This place is unbelievable. Love hiking on the trails and just being there.
Jim Northrup — Google review
Friendly and helpful staff; informative presentation of Kluane National Park and possible walks and hikes; great location with view of the snow-covered Elias Mountains
Hubert Trapp — Google review
This place is full of information. The staff are super helpful and they have great maps for hiking trails in the area. They have a video room where you can watch a short 20 min video of the park. Very interesting.
The building is brand new, very clean, safe and Covid aware.
Aimee & Mike — Google review
Beautiful park. Excellent & creative interactive educational programming to interest the public in conservation!
F — Google review
Amazing views of the mountains, lots of informative hands-on exhibits for kids and adults. Beautiful art exhibits. One of the nicest national parks visitor centers we have been to!
Doug — Google review
A serene and a place everyone must go and see the beauty and wilderness of Yukon. Must take a glacier tour on a plane . Expensive but worth doing this life time experience for 1.5-2 hrs flight time from Hains Junction by Glacier yours. Daniel was our pilot and he is a amazing guys and tool us to near the mount Logan and Many other glaciers on the way .
Girish Babbar — Google review
Their visitor information is full of so much rich informative information. Well worth the visit. Especially if u r not planning on hiking and seeing the wonders of the area first hand. Then stop in and get an idea of its beauty and its history, the people that lived & still live in the area. Plus the animals that live here.
Deirdre Piggott — Google review
Beautiful park. Great information along the hikes. There are hikes available for all types of hikers
Freek Jansen — Google review
The Parks Canada employee I spoke with was so helpful, giving me hike suggestions for hikes that factored in my interests, the current weather situation, etc. Very thoughtful and informative.
Dane B — Google review
Sad and weird they were closed today. I didn't read the sign, but I think the 17 other people I watched try the door did.
I drove up from the lower 48. I wouldn't know what website to check to see if they were open today, I just went by Google that's says every day. 😅
Nomadic RN — Google review
Shares a building with First Nations Cultural Centre and a Visitors Info Centre. This is an excellent place to spend time while in Haines Junction especially if you would like to go hiking and need help planning what to do. Fantastic displays with lots of hands on stuff, photos, and great stories. Very useful info centre with great selection of very useful pamphlets and booklets. Definitely stop here. Will take between 3-6 hrs to do all the displays.
Chena Hot Springs Resort is a rustic complex located 90 minutes east of Fairbanks, offering a variety of amenities such as hot springs, an indoor pool, and an ice museum. While the facilities may be considered somewhat outdated, the resort's location provides excellent opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights. Visitors can relax in hot tubs and a warm indoor swimming pool in the mineral spring area. Despite some maintenance issues reported by guests, many find it worth visiting for relaxation after exploring Alaska.
Don't forget to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙoʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏm when booking a room. This site will compare hundreds of booking websites and normally will have prices much cheaper than others! Thank me later on! This hotel is one of the best in the area. I have been coming here for a long time. If you decide to stay here you for sure will love it I'm sure!
My family loved spending a couple of days at Chena! Kids went swimming everyday at the indoor pool. Horseback riding. Ice museum was awesome! Outdoor hot springs was very nice. My wife and I enjoyed the peaceful relaxation of the hot waters and the sound of nature. Everyone wants to return again next year.
David Milner — Google review
Friendly staff and reasonable prices. I'm going to start with my complaints though, because they are very notable.
The locker room was covered in mud and dirt, I was there for over three hours and at no point had anyone gone in to clean it up. It would make sense to have someone go in hourly and rinse the floor off to maintain cleanliness. There's absolutely no reason it should stay dirty for that long.
The lockers themselves are very dated and take 50¢ every time you want to open and close them, don't lock your wallet in there! $20 fee if you loose your key, but the wrist straps do not tighten! No way to bring your own lock
The water was very nice, not too crowded in February on a weekend and decorated nicely. It's a good one time trip. Honestly as nice as it was I wouldn't make that long drive from Fairbanks again, in the winter at least.
Seth — Google review
2023.06.25 - Houston, TX visitor and group. We really enjoyed every experience this resort offered to us. The rooms were very rustic, so keep that in mind. Unfortunately, at breakfast time, our particular day that morning, only one waiter was working the entire dining room. Sitting and service was over an hour.
However, all the adventures were great. The Ice Museum is a must experience. Also, get in the Hot Springs.
Carmen Laffey — Google review
Hot springs are great. Love the looking rock setting. Especially like that kids aren't allowed in the outdoor pool. Indoor pool was too full of kids to enjoy
Very limited space for lounging in the sun.
We stayed in the rv park and thought it was very nice, loved the space. Could improve rest rooms.
Steve Yates — Google review
*Day use review*
Had a wonderful time today in the day use pools and facilities. There are adequate changing/locker/shower facilities ($0.50 for locker use).
The indoor pool looked great for kids and families.
Outdoors there's a large hot tub and the big hot springs pool! Nice mixture of hot spots and cool areas - plenty of room to accommodate many people.
Matt McMahon — Google review
I recently stayed here and overall had a mixed experience. The staff was generally friendly and accommodating. However, during checkout, I encountered an issue with the manager who informed me of a potential late fee due to checking out 10 minutes past the designated time. The exact words were “technically we should be charging you late fee since you are checking out late by 10 minutes” I was shocked hearing this from a manager. Her communication came across as rude and lacked consideration.
On a positive note, the restaurant offered delicious food. Must try Tomato Basil soup.
Improved customer service from the manager would significantly enhance the overall stay.
Word of caution for those who are booking Aurora viewing Tour, overall experience was amazing. Its one of those mind boggling experiences you will ever have while watching aurora’s dancing in front of your eyes. Natural beauty kept aside, the tour operators will take you to remote place where they have heated yurts so you can go in and out for aurora watching by keeping yourself warm. They also serve hot coffee, teas, hot apple cider, hot chocolate, cup noodles. The only thing I didn’t like about it is that you have to forcefully stay for 5 hours even though everyone on your tour are ready to go back to hotel. Tour guide just refused to leave early.
J1gg5 — Google review
My family stayed for the day to visit the hot springs and the ice museum tour. Today was -30F so we were very nervous about the walk into the springs while in our bathing suits. I’ve attached photos of the walkway and some from inside the springs. You go straight from the locker room into the indoor pools, then down a tunnel that leads right into the hot springs, literally a ramp into the water. My FLORIDA family said it was the best experience they’ve had here so far, definitely recommend even if you can’t stay for the northern lights.
Aislynn Smith — Google review
Very fun. So much to do and really feels like home while you are there. Staff awesome. Clean. Organized.
One star off:
- restaurant either too small or needs more efficiency. Wait times seemed longer than they needed to be both times we went.
- bath was too hot one of the days we were there so we couldn’t go in. No one could. It probably cooled off later but we had to leave.
If you want time away with your family, definitely go. If you just want to see the northern lights, there are less expensive options like Murphy Dome for free.
Overall - I would go again if I had family members that wanted to see Alaska!
Ken Dircks — Google review
The hot spring itself was awesome- beautiful, warm, and spacious. However, the actual stay at the resort was mediocre at best. To start, the locker rooms were dirty and unkempt. Next, Robert, the man who gave the ice museum tour/manning the activitorium, should not be customer facing. He was condescending and unpleasant. The entire ice museum tour was just re-stating over and over again how previous guests have ruined everything about the ice museum. In addition, the restaurant was overpriced and understaffed. As far as the resort rooms- they were average but the shower was disgusting. On a positive note, the northern lights tour was well worth the money and a once in a lifetime experience! Hugh and Ann were great! I would also like to mention that the waiters, bartenders, house keepers, and concierge personnel were kind and welcoming. Long story short, this whole stay felt like a fever dream.
Alysa Hackett — Google review
The hot springs was super cool, locker rooms were crowded with not much area to change. The property is really beautiful in the wintertime. The hotel room for $260/ was a dump. The bathrooms are disgusting, mold on the ceiling, the sheets are stained, honestly for the price you should definitely have a lot better quality. This entire building we were in 96 needs a complete overhaul. This place has so much potential and for what you pay they can definitely do some renovations and provide better housekeeping. The lady who ran the ice museum tour was extremely rude to multiple people. People are there to have a good time and enjoy the experience and the staff should have that same attitude. The restaurant appetizers were great but the main courses were cold, it took us over an hour to get our food and when we did it was cold. Waited another 30 minutes trying to get the check. Overpriced for what you get. This is not fine dining by any means for what you are being charged. Overall if we had it to do over we would stay somewhere else and do the ice museum and hot springs and skip the rest.
Jamie Smith — Google review
Quirky little spot for a meal and a soak. We flew in, which was pretty spectacular. (Might have felt like a very long drive though.) They have an airstrip and it’s tucked into the mountains. Overall the energy of the place was very Alaska. Food was okay, but nothing particularly special. Hot springs were nice, though I wish there were more places to sit in them (so as to post up with a book).
Maddy Thom — Google review
I had a great tent site, surrounded on 3 sides by a babbling brook. The hot springs are awesome, as is the innovative and funky vibe of the resort. Good food, incredible bar. Highly recommend. Hope to be back for Aurora Viewing.
Norton Ewart — Google review
Nice area. Very affordable hot springs compared to other places. Seems like a great place for kids with outdoor play areas, a pool, biking and hiking places. Having said that, there are some things that could be improved on. The check in process took a very long time (about 45 min for the four people in front of us to check in). When it was finally our turn we got turned away because we had not found a tent site number first. There are no signs or instructions that tell you about this process and they don't seem to keep track of which campsites have been claimed already. Because of this we had to leave and then come back and get in line again. There is no cellphone signal in the area and they have internet but charge for it and charge to make calls to anyone using their phones. The lockers in the pool area are 50 cents to use for a single opening. It would be much nicer to have a key or bracelet that allows you to open and close the locker several times. This could be included in the price of the pool pass.
Vendula Strnadova — Google review
We stayed in Chena hot spring for a night to enjoy their hot spring and also have high chances of seeing aurora lights. Sadly the day we arrived it was snowing heavily and even next day, it continued. Sky was covered with clouds and chances of aurora was 0%. Next day, we went to the hot spring and we forgot all about not seeing aurora. The snow falling on top and surrounding and we enjoying ourselves in hot spring, indeed the best experience we had. Not just that, even their outdoor hot tub is amazing. Must visit if you ever go to Fairbanks and stay for the night to get the best of the experience.
Mansi Oza — Google review
My experience here was fantastic. I only went for the hot spring and that was an experience well worth having. My wife and I ended up eating at the restaurant for lunch and even though it was kinda pricey, the quality of the food was great. The staff we interacted with were the best. Definitely going back again to do more activities for sure.
Joseph Wilson (Jay) — Google review
This is a great little resort out away from the lights of Fairbanks. There were plenty of activities to keep you moving and learning about the resort. The beds were comfortable just don’t expect anything fancy from the rooms. The Ice Museum was cool to see especially how they make the martini glasses. Our tour guide was two days in on the job so we did not get a seasoned veteran style tour with interesting tidbits but she was personable. The SUSV tours to the top of the mountain were really fun and they offer all sorts of warm drinks and food. The yurts had chairs for a place to sit and wait if the skies are cloudy. With a lot of people they can get really stuffy and unpleasant. We spent most of the four hours outside the yurt. Only one of our three people went into the Hot Springs and she enjoyed it. We went walking on several trails and were just in awe of how beautiful the landscape was with everything covered in feet of snow. We wanted to do the dog sledding and massage but you gotta book those early before you arrive to ensure a spot. We did get to see the dogs in their kennels and that was great.
Allyson Conner — Google review
Visiting Chena Hot Springs during winter was an unforgettable experience!
Journey from Fairbanks downtown to Chena Hot Spring will take roughly about an hour or so. Depending on the road conditions.
The opportunity to soak in the hot springs amidst the chilly winter air was pure bliss.
However, it's worth noting that there is a bit of a walk from the indoor pool to the outdoor one, so be prepared for the cold.
Moving from area to area is all outdoors, so make sure to bundle up and keep warm. Despite the chill, the rejuvenating soak and the breathtaking surroundings made it all worth it.
They are a resort, so if you wanna spend a night here, they do have aurora tour around night too. Activities is also available throughout the day for booking. (All chargeable of course)
If you are here in Fairbanks, no harm trying out this unique winter adventure!
Juztin Png — Google review
Didn’t stay at the resort. My family and I just came for the hot springs. Had a great time! Hot springs & hot tubs were super nice & clean. We loved that the hot springs were 18 and up. And we really appreciated the staff coming out consistently to ask the kids sneaking in to leave. The restaurant was also really good! The scallops were great, def recommend!
Haley Franks — Google review
Restaurant was pretty good. Check in was 4 hours later than scheduled, room wasn’t clean, room furniture looks old and not well taken care of. Showers has weird water temperatures, either too hot or too cold.
There was trash in the hot springs water, I believe there should be more rules to enter and preserve the springs.
There should be more sanitary/ hygiene measures in the whole place.
Activity, restaurant and front desk staff were pretty nice.
anasofia ra — Google review
Carol at the massage spa was terrific! I would recommend her. Carol gets 5 stars. The locker room, restrooms and shower stalls were disgusting and haven’t been cleaned in a long time. You could smell and see the filth. Most lockers don’t work and will take your quarters. Blow dryers don’t work either. I’m not sure what the hype is all about for this place because the hot spring smells like sulfur. It’s like soaking in hot fart water. The restaurant food was mediocre. My husband had a apple martini at the ice museum bar, which was pretty neat, but I’d have to say overall I was not charmed. The massage was the best part of the visit but I’m not sure anything else would be worth the trip or money spent.
Julie Nguyen — Google review
Fantastic and had a blast. Spring was hot as always and so refreshing and relaxing. Leaves your skin feeling super soft. Body relaxed and just wanting to sleep like. Baby. Locker rooms are a bit small and run down a bit. Just hoping they upgrade those. Other then that foods good and the bar and just enjoy and relax.
Roger Maddox — Google review
Hot Springs outdoor pool area seemed very man and was way too hot. We suspect they just pipe in hot water. Jagged large boulders around the edge were not accommodating for sitting on to dangle your feet in. Fire hose sprays only added more to the contrived feeling that someone dug a hole in their backyard and piped in mechanically heated water. You have to wonder about the 2 still pools next to the wading pool. These are marked for ducks and Moose only and have a lot of green gunk floating. Inside pool needed to be cooler and less chlorine. Liard Hot Springs in BC was way nicer and cheaper, much more serene and you can go into different areas of the natural woodland pool to find a water temp you like. The Ice Museum was fun to see but 15 minutes is really all you need. Would have liked more ice sculptures inside rather than the ice bedrooms. Not really worth the time it took to drive there or the cost. Best part of our day was seeing 3 Moose at Milepost 40 to 41 on way up and down.
Luisa Sherman — Google review
We booked a family suite for the night and really have never been so disappointed in the cleanliness of a room ever before.
My kids feet were filthy just from walking on the wood floor in a brief period of time. The bathroom has mold growing all around because there's not a fan or vent. The microwave was filthy with food and drink debris. Housekeeping was gone for the day and "no other rooms were available". There was only 3 towels in the room for a family of 5, and front desk said there was nothing they could do until the morning. Luckily the pool attendant knew how to solve a problem and retrieved some towels for us.
The pool is only ok and obviously children aren't allowed in the outdoor area.
Really not worth it, and management was not available the next day to address our issues. I am still waiting on a call back or email over a month later.
Seriously, don't spend your money here. Just another tourist trap that really doesn't care about service.
Nicholas Thayse — Google review
Overall our experience was okay. While we might not choose to come again, it's worth a visit if you're looking for relaxation after a long
journey in Alaska.
Like many others mentioned, the hot springs are super cool, especially during weekdays. However, it's obvious that the management doesn't prioritize upkeep, as broken items are a common sight.
We stayed 2 nights in a small cabin. The cabin was not the cleanest (and the door handle was broken) but had the comfortable bed, which was all we wanted. Their shower room in the pool wasn't much better, and the locker didn't work properly.
What we enjoyed most was the hiking trails. We explored three of them, and our favorite was Monument Creek Trail! It is also a good place for wildlife enthusiasts like us -- a lot of birds! :)
WJ — Google review
We stayed in the Mushers Cabin that was $200/night and was one of the roughest cabins we stayed in ever. It was 42 degrees inside when we checked in, at 7:30pm, and the heater smelled really bad for the first hour or so to warm the room up. There was an outhouse next to the cabin, no running water in the cabin, and the outhouse smelled worse than anything I’ve ever taken a whiff of. For $200+ per night, they could at least wire up some type of vent and fan in that stink box. The cabin was a long hike from the hot springs and other resort amenities. This would t be bad in the summer, but with snow on the ground and the temps cold, it was frustrating to walk so far to the resort. We ended up driving it most of the time.
The food was good at the restaurant and the small bar was fun. The hot springs was hot, which made the whole experience much better. Without a hot springs, this place would get a much lower rating. Hopefully this place gets some updating soon, otherwise I don’t imagine it’ll last with the boom of AirBnB’s and other cabins to stay at.
Ben Schemensky — Google review
The actual hot spring was fun, but there is no heated walkway (or at least was not on). The hot spring pool area was filthy. The staff were rude and didn’t seem to really care about anyone. You pay $20 for a pool pass but you must purchase a locker for $0.50 if you want one. The showers and bathroom were disgusting and didn’t look clean. The hot tubs that were inside (pictured) were foamy and clearly not cleaned at all. Overall not worth it personally.
The restaurant is over priced for what they give you and service was not that good.
The geothermal tour was nice but shorter than they said.
The ice museum tour was fun but the martini is premixed and not worth it. The carpet in there also smelled really bad since it was wet from the ice.
The dog kennel tour was okay. Staff is super friendly but not super attentive when out on the tour, definitely could be done better.
Overall, it was worth visiting but I definitely do not recommend staying at the lodge. Overpriced and dirty. Even the lobby area was dirty. Save your money, stay elsewhere and drive in.
Maria Thenell — Google review
We weren't planning to visit the hot springs, but everyone kept talking about them so we assumed we were missing out on something - we're so glad we visited! The hot springs were a fantastic, affordable place to warm up on a cold winter's day. We decided to eat at the restaurant afterward - wow, what a meal! Delicious food you could tell was made with quality ingredients, large portions, and honestly a great value even though it was a little more on the expensive side. You don't want to miss the hot springs or the restaurant if you're visiting Fairbanks! However, from what I've heard, I would skip staying on-site and just drive in.
David Coker — Google review
Pros: Great experience. We stayed at a cabin and it was private and secluded. The outhouse was a unique Alaskan experience at-10 with a 20mph wind. Hot spring was a great family experience (just don't try to bring the kids into the hotspring itself).
Cons: The restaurant is overpriced and food was underwhelming. The outlets to plug your vehicle in were all down, so beware if it's negative.
Overall: Great experience!
Aaron Husemann — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Chena Hot Springs and it was truly a wonderful experience. The moment I stepped into the soothing warm water, all my stress seemed to melt away. The natural surroundings were absolutely breathtaking, with unique views all around.
The atmosphere was peaceful and serene, allowing me to fully relax and unwind. The staff at the Hot Springs were friendly and accommodating, ensuring that my visit was comfortable and enjoyable. Specifically, the restaurant afterwards was really nice and Laura went above and beyond to make sure we were accommodated.
Overall, it was a fantastic experience and I would highly recommend visiting a Hot Springs for a truly blissful and rejuvenating Alaskan getaway.
amy sexton — Google review
How on earth could anyone give this dump more than 3 stars? The place was packed with tourists, mostly from other countries, so things can be a bit chaotic with language barriers. We prepaid for the use of the hot springs “pond” but upon seeing all the people using it, decided it wasn’t for us. We did the free tour of the greenhouse which meant attendees could look through a window into the greenhouse instead of touring, while the tour guide talked about hydroponics. The ice museum tour was a fun 20 minutes. After seeing the tired facilities, we decided to eat elsewhere. If you’re thinking about renting one of their cabins, don’t. There’s sidewalks on all sides of them and they’re located smack-dab in the middle of all the foot traffic. Pretty sure this place is an inside joke for people of interior Alaska as I doubt many ever return for a second visit. The drive was pretty, and there’s a reindeer facility at the halfway point that proved to be the highlight. But if getting in warm water with other strangers and their “fluids” is your thing, this place may be for you.
David Kelley — Google review
I had a great experience here. The hot springs are amazing. The ice Bar is fun. The restaurant food was really good and we got seated right away. The activities - dog sledding and northern light tour were enjoyable. The room beds are comfortable... Though if there was a complaint it is that the guest rooms are at least 80F and the windows are frozen shut. They do have fans, but it is hard to sleep in such a warm room. Overall it was the only negative aspect, everything else was amazing.
Kathelyn Chittenden — Google review
Great spot had little issue with the first room, but staff relocated us, and it was amazing. Keep in mind it only has 1 restaurant within 40 miles. Waiting times can get really high. Bring everything you need rooms do not have a kitchen or anything to eat or drink with in it rooms. Cafe does have a lot of microwave products staff always pleasure throughout whole resort. Natural springs is only for 18 and older outdoor hot tub great. Water inside the pool and indoor hot tubs looked dirty they said they could only replace water 1 time a month. They are remote and rely on well, so it makes sense so they don't run out. Internet is only available in certain main areas of resort which I love!! We need to disconnect for online
Miranda Medlin — Google review
Good place for an outing. They have natural hot springs which is the main attraction. The restaurant is quite busy at times and are a little under staffed too resulting in a slower then expected service. This resort in itself is not the ideal place to view aurora borealis but they offer tours where they take you to the top of the nearby hill for better spot. One big point to take care of is, people should not book 9:30pm tour to view northern lights as the tour ends by 2:30am and it might not be the ideal time. Generally, the ideal time is from 2-4am, so if I would recommend Fairbanks to be a better area to view northern lights.
Amar Jaiswal — Google review
Very nice and relaxing place. I got the feeling that the place was a little short staffed but the staff was very friendly and helpful. The rooms are very spacious and nice.
The cabins are mostly dry cabins with no water or toilets so if you don't want that, I would recommend their rooms that have all these amenities.
The restaurant on the property has very average food and pretty expensive but there is no other restaurant that is close so this is the only food option in the vicinity.
The hot springs are amazing and very relaxing.
Shashwat Kumar — Google review
The room is old, the bathroom is tiny and low flow. However, I dare to say this is a luxurious resort in Fairbanks. In winter, you can experience frozen hair in the hot spring and wait for aurora in its activity center, a comfortable and convenient place.
Besides, they offer Apple martini served in a glass carved from ice at Aurora Ice Museum.
Karen Chang — Google review
Chena Hot Springs was a great afternoon/evening adventure on my Alaska trip! The hot springs were absolutely stunning, and we appreciated the adult-only atmosphere, which made for a truly relaxing experience.
The gift shop was fantastic, offering a great selection of souvenirs to remember our visit. While the onsite restaurant was decent, with quick seating for lunch, dinner did have a bit of a wait - about 25-30 minutes. However, the food was tasty, though we did notice the water had a bit of a funky taste, so it's advisable to bring your own or ask for bottled.
One of the highlights of our visit was the tour of the ice museum. Our tour guide was engaging, informative, and had us laughing with their great jokes. It was a truly cool experience!
Overall, Chena Hot Springs offered a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and natural beauty. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience before you go chasing the Northern Lights!
Jenna D. Gottlieb — Google review
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17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, USA
The Aurora Ice Museum is a year-round attraction that features ice sculptures, an ice bar, and parka rentals. It has a whimsical ambiance with its freezing temperature of 25 degrees. The museum showcases old yet impressive sculptures, some of which are decorated with flowers. The facility also offers accommodation and event space for weddings. Reservations are recommended as entry may be limited due to high demand.
Well worth the trip from Fairbanks. This is the coolest museum I have ever been to (no pun intended). Walking around the ice museum with an apple martini, in a glass made of ice, should be on everyone bucket list.
Keep in mind when booking a tour that the road to get to Aurora Ice Museum is icy but drivable. Give yourself extra time to get there. Slow down and get there safely.
Highly recommended!
John V — Google review
This Ice museum is worth visiting when you are in chena hot springs. Very unique experience. Brilliant artistic sculptures. There are ice caves inside where you could stay a night in the ice cold artistic beds. You will have to purchase a ticket in advance to drink the appletini in Aurora bar. The martini glass is carved out of ice and there is a tradition to break the ice glass once you are done with the drink. That was very satisfying 😀
Ashwini S — Google review
My 1st ice museum and while not very big, and 22 degrees F, beautiful. Get the appletini. Our guide was great. Sorry, I don't remember his name but he is from the south, a firefighter/medic, and conducted our tour in shorts and a T.
Veronica Misko — Google review
I loved the workmanship done on the ice carvings here!
It blow your mind when seeing for the first time.
They offer drinks here which were extremely costly ($20 per 30 ml) at the time we visited.
All different art pieces are beautiful and it surprises you at different places.
One great advantage of this location is, you can combine your visit with Chena hot springs and the Aurora viewing (if you’re going during the equinox).
Also keep in mind that the nearest gas station from this place is about 30 mins - plan your refueling accordingly.
I recommend this place for all visitors in general.
Shardul Telharkar — Google review
Not really much of a museum. There are a couple of ice carved stuffed which is cool to look at. There is an igloo and a few rooms made of ice. Not bad for 15$.
The martini is another 20$. They serve it in a glass made of ice so bring a glove if you decide to go for it.
I don't really know why it is a guided tour because the guide only gave us a few lines of info. Not to blame him because again, there isn't much that needs any explaining 😂
They have this ritual at the end where you break the ice glass in which they serve you the martini.
Overall, my recommendation would be to go for the $15 ticket but only if you don't have any other plans. Prioritise any other plans you may have over this because you would definitely not feel bad about missing out on this. The museum tour might get you a couple of fun pics.
The martini is a tourist trap.
Shashwat Kumar — Google review
The ice museum at Chena Hot Springs was fun to go into with a group. There were some really old sculptures and they don't update it much unfortunately. I like how they put flowers in a lot of them. They rent it out as a hotel and for weddings too. I recommend getting tickets in advance bc some people in our group couldn't get in. They serve one cocktail in an ice glass which was cool but since I don't drink alcohol I wasn't able to partake. It would have been nice if there was a non-alcoholic option.
Rainbow Alaska — Google review
I felt this was kinda overhyped. Maybe because I wasn’t really exciting after been to world ice art championship at Fairbanks which was kinda awesome.
Maybe kids will like this museum a lot than adults.
For adults who enjoys drinking should experience tasting the apple martini in a ice glass where you will actually get to see how the ice glass is made.
Paid - 20$ for museum ticket
21$ for maritini (you can’t buy this after entering the museum, so buy the ticket before only!)
I suggest you to plan accordingly if you are visiting this place. Because they run the tours at 11:00, 1:00, 3:00 and 5:00 pm only. You are allowed to enter the museum during these timings only.
Hersh G — Google review
It is a nice place to visit once if you are curious, but if you had been to the Ice Alaska park or the Ice Art Park, you would feel let down. The guide/bartender was really nice and friendly. The place is small and dark, the lights' effects are nice but not as beautiful as they look during winter in the ice park. The place is cold (if you are not used to cold temperatures, make sure to bring an extra warm coat). They do have coats to borrow . You can see the whole place in 15 minutes or less, I think they sell it as a 45 minutes tour because if you order the extra drink (for additional $19.05) it takes some time to prepare it and drink it, but if you are not ordering the drink in 15 minutes you will be done. The drink was ok, nothing extraordinary, just an overpriced apple martini served in "ice cup."
Lily T — Google review
We went on a tour of the museum in September. We were allowed in for $10 because the electricity had been off for 8 hours, and there had been some damage to the ice works. It was still amazingly beautiful!
We were told that in the winter, people would go into the museum when it was 30 below zero outside to warm up.
JoAnn SkyWatcher — Google review
The resort is awesome and the geothermal tour was great. Would definitely come again, but the ice museum itself had a pretty limited collection of ice sculptures. Lots of architectural I've features like columns and stairs but not much in the way of really intricate ice carving. They do have a bar there where you can order a drink served in an ice glass.
David Hoffman — Google review
Mind blowing. Everything inside the museum was sculptured in ice which includes tip box, chairs, bar, rooms chandelier, bar glasses and everything.. there are bed room suites available for renting inside the museum.. great experience..
Madhanbabu Panchamani — Google review
We almost didn't come here because of the hike from Fairbanks but we we're so glad we made the trip - highly recommend! Each tour is scheduled about 2 hours apart. Arrive on time otherwise you'll have to wait for the next one. In our case, we paid $15 pp and enjoyed the natural hot springs until the next tour was available. The tour itself was short & fascinating. You get to explore the art solo and take tons of pictures. When you're done the guide will make you an Appletini, which was delish. They're served in ice glasses you can watch them make. It's not a full service bar, and an appletini is $21 pp plus the admission fee. Our guide, Ann, was hilarious and knowledgeable. If you're driving in from FB, we recommend downloading directions even though it's a straight shot into town. We lost all cell service on the return route for about 35 miles and it was a scary ride home blind.
Meloney Byrd — Google review
Ice glass making workshop at the end is the Best part.
Very Expensive drink ($20 Each) but worth the experience. (Drink is served in ICE glass)
Great to combine this with Chena hot springs & Aurora Viewing, since they are In the vicinity.
Chandrahaas Unnava — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit and liked doing the ice museum ($10 each) with the Appletini ($20)! Such a fun, and cold, experience. Glad they have extra coats to share!!!
Definitely worth it if you're already coming out this direction or staying at the hot springs.
Rebecca Martz — Google review
Super cool experience that was worth the money for sure! I read it can get busy, but we went during the week in January and it wasn't too bad. Even though there were maybe 30 people, somehow it didn't feel crowded in there and you could easily see and photograph everything without people in the pics. The martini was SUPER tasty, but tiny... You would think for $20 they would at least fill the small ice cup, but it was maybe 2/3 full... Still a cool experience and we are glad we got it. This is a must see if you are in the area! We drove 3 hours for this and the hot springs and are so happy we did!
Hayley Rohde — Google review
Indeed a once in a life time experience. Fantastic pregame for the hot springs. It’s a 45 minute tour including sitting in the ice bar and have a nicely made martini in your beautiful ice glass. More to see than I had expected - frozen flowers are incredibly beautiful, and the ice sculptures were spectacular. We all enjoyed our delicious Apple martini. Definitely worth a visit, cheers!
Claya Chu — Google review
This was a cool place to see ice art and have an apple martini while enjoying the museum. Located in Chena Hot Springs Resort, the tour has set times, and they do supply extra jackets if what you are wearing is not warm enough.
Mia Gonzales — Google review
Very impressive. Our tour guide was very nice and knowledgeable. Awesome ice museum and very cool art and carvings inside. Watched a guy carve several martini glasses out of ice, each one took him only a minute.
Cody Bullis — Google review
Ice bar & museum were amazing! Sam our guide was super knowledgeable and witty. We arrived a little late for our 1pm and staff were kind and rebooked us for 3pm. Would recommend doing this tour just allow a good hour to get out to Chena
Luke de Boer — Google review
Cool place with amazing sculptures, but I don’t think it’s worth paying to come inside. If the tour group is large, there might not be enough seats for everyone to sit and enjoy their martini.
Krystal Chen — Google review
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17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, USA
The Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a chance to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. The store features an extensive collection of items ranging from quirky salad forks shaped like moose to ugly Christmas sweaters. In addition to the gift shop, there is also a pastry shop on-site and a Santa statue that visitors can take photos with.
Its Santa's spot in North Pole. So make a point to stop by and grab some true holiday cheer that only Santa and the Sweet Shop's delicious candied treats can deliver.
I also heard my behavior while I visited has bumped me up a ☆ on Santa's list. My risk of coal is further lessening by the day after I send my loved ones their North Pole swag we picked up from the Santa House gift shop. We also made sure we got that Christmas card family photo knocked out early for 2022.
Santa, please add a ☆ for my efficiency.
And follow me for more quality reviews of America's great businesses to learn who has been naughty or nice to me.
Dan Ford — Google review
This place was super fun and made me feel like I was a little kid again! They have so many fun gifts you can buy and yummy sweet treats, toddler friendly but you have to keep a eye on them
Lots of fragile! Good place to stretch your legs outside and walk to see the reindeer!
Jaydyn F — Google review
Before I say anything, Santa Claus here is the real one! No kidding!!
The place has everything you would think of, when you think of Christmas. Every single thing you can hang on your Christmas tree, it's here!!
It's a giant gift shop for Christmas stuff. Plus they have a decent cafe place with chocolates and stuff, so that too.
Our best part about visiting the Santa Claus House was taking a picture with Santa himself. That was awesome 👍.
The irony was that this place was closed on Christmas Day. Or maybe Santa just wanted a day off. We feel for you, Santa.
Highly recommended visit for all Fairbanks tourists ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ajay Sreedharan — Google review
This is basically a huge store. If you're thinking of going to another attraction, this one could be skipped. They offer kits to have Santa send a letter with extras to the kids but I bet it can be ordered without driving out. Reindeer Academy was closed for the winter (3/2022) but it's still basically a little place there kids can say they saw Santa's Reindeer and met Santa at the North Pole (make sure Santa isn't taking a day off).
Michele W. — Google review
Christmas in September? WHY NOT!?! We are off season so only got to look at the reindeer and shop the gift shop but that was so much fun! Many gifts purchased, not for Christmas but just souvenirs. Great shop if you are looking for something new to add to your Holiday decor or just everyday gift items.
Sheila Wyatt — Google review
All year around you can visit Santa in North Pole, Alaska. Gift shop, treats with ice cream , coffee toys, write a letter to Santa and more. High prices due it it being catered to tourists. Still a nice place to visit. I wish there were more gifts that were made in Alaska there, but there is a nice selection of gifts and ideas to choose from. Staff is nice and it can get real busy.
Washington Stadunks — Google review
Great souvenir shop. Most things Christmas are here. Kids, and most adults, love this place. Letters from Santa are great. Sugary stuff available as well. If you’re near Fairbanks this is a great place to visit. Also, the reindeer academy is top notch.
Tim Hadaway — Google review
Very cute shop completely revolving around Christmas. Lots of unusual items along with the standard items. Hot Cocoa and Fudge shop are very good. Having Santa and Mrs. Clause on site for pictures and video greetings was not expected. Plan on stopping for 2-3hrs EASY.
Mike Tirey — Google review
This place is pretty incredible! I went in to buy something for my mom because she is obsessed with Christmas. I ended up looking around for awhile and got an iced mocha. The staff was incredible and so nice. The sweetest lady ever helped me with picking out the right card for my mom and the deed to send her. I went back in to send someone else a card and Nick helped me. He was awesome too and so helpful. Highly recommend stopping at this place.
Robert Heussy — Google review
Enjoy pics with Santa all year long. There's a cute display of the nice list in his workshop. Lots of souvenirs & ice cream, fudge, other snacks in a cafe. Lots of gift options. Plus the world's largest Santa. Next door is the reindeer academy where you can visit & pet them. Lots of fun
Rose Rigal — Google review
Very "cool" 😉 to have visited the Santa Claus House in North Pole Alaska! Santa wasn't there when we visited, but you can find his days & hours on their website and get photos with him. Lots of great gift & souvenir options inside along with a food/drink station towards the far right side of the main entrance!
Terry Twentyten Hight — Google review
Fun place. Santa Clause and Mrs Clause are really there and have kind things to say to all. Nice North Pole gift shop and lots of sweets. Yes it is highly commercialized but what did you expect. It's still fun to see.
Garry Kepes — Google review
This place was a hoot! A huge Christmas house in the middle of the North Pole filled with all kinds of great Christmas gifts. I could have stayed much longer looking around, but our tour group was leaving. We even got to see the real Santa and Mrs. Clause. Lots of parking and you can't miss it - a 3-story Santa and Christmas tree are out front.
Diana Singleton — Google review
The Santa clause house is really cool. They have Santa themed stuff all year long, and the house feels very welcoming. This was a really nice place to visit.
They also have a cafe where you can buy Christmas themed drinks and deserts. There’s also some decorations outside, but I was totally blown away by the stuff inside
Nividh Singh — Google review
This place is pretty awesome. We’ll worth the short detour to check it out. Prices were better than I expected as well. Some amazing things that you won’t find at other Christmas stores. Highly recommend a visit!
Ben Schemensky — Google review
Absolutely love this shop! So fun going in to Christmas any time of the year❤️ The decorations and snow globes are so pretty! Fresh candy too for those with a sweet tooth🍥 Always go a few times a year. Staff is always so warm and easy to talk to. A must see!
Karalynn — Google review
サンタクロース•ハウスはフェアバンクスから車で20分の距離のノースポール市にある巨大なお土産屋さんです。
キーリング、マグカップ、マグネット、Tシャツ、置き物などアメリカ定番のお土産が豊富です。店内にはカフェもあるので、コーヒーやアイスクリーム片手に休憩する事も出来ます。
近くには何も無いです。
赤色でかわいい外観の建物は遠目からも直ぐに分かるので、通りすぎる事はないと思います。
クリスマスシーズンに訪問したのですが、巨大なサンタクロース🎄🎅🎁✨とクリスマスツリーは観光客の撮影スポットになっていました。
(Translated by Google)
Santa Claus House is a huge souvenir shop located in North Pole, a 20-minute drive from Fairbanks.
We carry a wide selection of classic American souvenirs such as key rings, mugs, magnets, T-shirts, and ornaments. There is also a cafe inside the store, so you can take a break with a cup of coffee or ice cream.
There's nothing nearby.
The cute red exterior of the building is easily recognizable even from a distance, so I don't think I'll pass by it.
I visited during the Christmas season, and the giant Santa Claus 🎄🎅🎁✨ and Christmas tree were popular photo spots for tourists.
92 Y — Google review
HO, HO, HO, if you can't give Santa Claus House 5-stars, you are either the Grinch or Scrooge.
Was the night before Christmas, and what a magical house appeared before us in glorious lights.
The town of North Pole has candy cane light posts and streets with Christmas themed names.
The house was filled with Christmas decorations and a bakery of sweets, and the white chocolate mocha was yummy.
It was so much so much for the kid in me to see and enjoy.
All worth the joy with my 8 yr old granddaughter.
Thank you to the employees and owners.
Merry Christmas to all and to ALL PEACE ON EARTH!
GODS BLESSINGS TO ALL!
K Otto — Google review
Even though it is just a gift shop but it is worth visiting. This gift shop is huge and sure that you will find something to buy.
One of the highlights is you will see Santa claus in a flesh. Most people ask him to record a blessing video clip to their family or loved ones.
There is also an area you can send letter from Santa too.
Tony Chote — Google review
This is kind of a fun roadside attraction. They say they've got the largest Santa here. I saw the large Santa statue outside the building and grabbed a photo as I love seeing these attractions. The "house" itself is big and plenty of Christmas shopping can be done here. The day I came to visit, Santa and Mrs. Claus was not available for pictures. I think they are off on Mondays and Tuesdays. Staff was friendly and they do a lot of work to go through and respond to the letters to Santa.
Marlon Caballero — Google review
WOW! Just in love with Santa’s Workshop in the North Pole! We first looked at the Reindeer, they have a nice big area for them and their indoor space looks very nice as well. So cute to have real reindeer there. Santa’s House is gorgeous, the huge tree, Santa and sleigh out the front is awesome. The house on the outside is decorated with just the right amount. Inside is huge, definitely take your time to walk around and take it all in, look at all the different things they have. We walked around twice then grabbed stuff to buy. Also definitely worth grabbing a few treats at the little cafe in there, delicious! Allow at least 2 hours here if you really want to take your time enjoying it all. Celine - Sydney, Australia
Celine Campbell Treuer — Google review
Really nice store. A lot of decorations, souvenirs... and you can have the chance to see the real Santa every Wednesdays and Sundays and his wife too.
Laure AUBLET — Google review
Very nicely done gift shop. Prices are typical gift shop prices but the presentation was great. They have a little bit of everything Alaska as well as Christmas themed items. The giant Santa and the reindeer made the drive through the snow worth it. Even before you get to the place, you will see candy cane shaped light posts. The only thing missing was little elves running around.
John Doe — Google review
Such a magical place! Everyone should stop by at least once. Santa even took a break from his busy schedule to meet with kids young and old. Plenty of decorations and gifts. There’s a cafe to warm you up as well.