Drive to Emerald Lake end of September

Question

Our cruise is scheduled to be in Skagway 7:30-4:30. Is it possible to drive to Emerald Lake and back in 5-6 hours? I understand the highway is maintained but is there usually snow and ice at that time?

Thank you for any insight you can give.

Answer

Driving from Skagway to Emerald Lake at the end of September is absolutely possible within your cruise window, but there are a few important conditions to keep in mind. The route is one of the most scenic drives in Alaska and the Yukon, following the Klondike Highway (South Klondike Highway) over White Pass and into Canada. Many cruise visitors do this as a DIY excursion.

The total distance from Skagway to Emerald Lake is roughly 75 miles (120 km) one way. Without stops, the drive typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, so around 3.5 hours round-trip. With your available 5–6 hours, you will have enough time—but only if you keep your stops limited and stay aware of weather conditions.

Late September weather is variable in this region. You can certainly have clear, dry conditions, but it is also the time when early-season snow can appear, especially at the higher elevations of White Pass. The highway is maintained year-round, and even in September road crews will keep it plowed as needed. However, it is not unusual to encounter frost, patches of ice early in the morning, or thin layers of snow at the summit. Conditions can change quickly, so flexibility and caution are important.

Expect possible icy or snowy patches on the White Pass summit early in the morning.
By midday, roads often improve unless there is an active weather system.
Rental cars are allowed into Canada, but be sure to verify rules with the rental agency.
You and all passengers must bring passports, as you will cross the Canadian border into the Yukon.
The border crossing is typically quick, but always budget a few extra minutes in case of a line.

The scenery along the way is worth it: roaring waterfalls, glacial valleys, lakes in multiple shades of blue-green, Carcross Desert, and beautiful mountain views. Emerald Lake is famed for its turquoise color, and even on a cool fall day it is a stunning viewpoint.

To maximize your time and ensure you return well before all-aboard, plan your sightseeing stops in advance. You can still stop at popular viewpoints—like Bridal Veil Falls, Bove Island Overlook, and Carcross—but keep each pause brief. This will allow you to enjoy the drive without risking delays.

Leave the ship as early as possible to grab your rental car.
Turn around no later than just after your Emerald Lake stop to keep a safe time buffer.
Check the weather forecast for White Pass before you leave; it’s often posted at the dock or available through local news/online sources.
Bring warm layers—fall weather can shift quickly between sunshine and cold winds.

In summary: yes, the drive is very doable within 5–6 hours, but allow yourself some buffer time, check the weather, and be prepared for the possibility of early-season snow at the pass. Most travelers who do this drive in late September report no significant road problems, but conditions cannot be guaranteed.

If the weather is good, it will likely be one of the highlights of your cruise.