Alaska Golden Circle Route in August 2025

Question

We're still in the early planning stages - flying into Juneau, rental car, then AMHS => Haines => drive from Haines Junction => Whitehorse => Carcross => Skagway => then AMHS back to Juneau. We're planning on 8=> driving days (plus RT air from DFW<=>Juneau) for the almost 400 mile trip - there appears to be lots to see and do, with comfortable temps (mid 60s to low 40s) in August. We hope to see bears feeding (somewhere along the Chilkoot River ?), as well as some easy hiking trails along the way, sightseeing, observing wildlife, etc. Any "don't miss" suggestions ?? Thanks !!

Answer

Your planned Alaska Golden Circle route in August 2025 sounds fantastic! The loop from Juneau through Haines, Haines Junction, Whitehorse, Carcross, Skagway, and back to Juneau offers a mix of wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and mild hiking opportunities. Here are detailed suggestions to make the most of your trip.

Wildlife and Bears:

Chilkoot River near Haines: This is one of the best spots for observing brown bears feeding on salmon. Early morning or late evening usually offers the best viewing opportunities.
Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve: Just outside Haines, the preserve is ideal for spotting eagles, especially in August when salmon are plentiful.
Along Haines Junction and Kluane National Park: Keep an eye out for moose, Dall sheep, and bears along roadside pullouts and short trailheads.

Scenic Drives & Stops:

Haines Highway: Stunning views of mountains and glaciers; stop at Takshanuk Mountains viewpoints and Kluane Lake overlook.
Alaska Highway near Haines Junction: Opportunities for short hikes and photo stops; check out Sheep Mountain Trail for a moderate 1–2 hour loop.
Carcross Desert: Known as the world’s smallest desert; a unique spot for a short stroll and photos.
Skagway: Historic Gold Rush town with plenty of easy walking tours and heritage sites; consider a short hike on the Lower Dewey Lake Trail or Gold Rush Trail.

Hiking and Easy Trails:

Chilkoot Trail (short sections if you don’t want the full hike) – beautiful scenery and historical significance.
Emerald Lake Trail near Skagway – easy 1–2 mile loop with views of turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.
Kluane Lake Shoreline Trails – gentle, accessible hikes with wildlife viewing.

Additional Tips:

Weather in August is generally mild (mid-60s to low 40s) but bring layers and rain gear; sudden showers are common.
Book accommodations early, especially in Haines, Skagway, and Haines Junction, as August is peak season.
Consider guided bear or wildlife tours in areas like Chilkoot River or Kluane National Park if you want a higher chance of sightings without trekking too far.
Allow for some flexibility in driving times; there are many scenic pullouts and spontaneous wildlife opportunities along the route.

This 8-day itinerary offers a balance of driving, wildlife viewing, light hiking, and local exploration. Prioritize early mornings and evenings for wildlife sightings, especially bears, and give yourself extra time for photography stops along this scenic and historic route.