train/bus tours in Skagway
 

We are debating between the train, bus or car trip to Whitepass and the Yukon. I found a combination train/bus trip through Chilkoot Charters and Tours that you ride the train up and the bus back. Is this a good option? Another choice is whether to go deeper into the Yukon. Is this worthwhile as we have only the one day in Port. If we go further into the Yukon are we better off renting a car?

You will see more with the van tour and get lots of photo ops ! The train doesn't stop and the fumes are awful from what I was told. We used Frontier Excursions. Their van held 10 people I think... had huge windows on the side (not like a regular van) and they stopped alot but would stop any time you asked. I think the trip was called The Yukoner - about 3 1/2-4 hrs. I also really enjoyed a hike and float trip with Skagway Float Tours. Nice hike and the float trip was great - got some good photos of some eagles ! There is great shopping there for souvenirs to take home and everything was sooo cheap ! Wish I had more time but when I returned from the float trip I went to the ship to meet family for dinner ! Skagway was great !

For clairfication the train does NOT go into the Yukon. If that is a priority, then opt for the longer train/bus combo. My opinion only, but the rail is just excellent, loaded with history and superior scenery. If of interest, consider it. :)

We enjoyed the train ride although late afternoon fog hurt visibility on the return. This is part of the Chilkoot trail and you will have a better sense of what the goldminers endured when they had to walk it. We drove from Skagway to Anchorage so we saw plenty of the Yukon. There are some spectacular areas but you won't get that far on a day trip. I vote train ride.

We did just what you are suggesting. The trian goes up the East side of the pass and the bus comes down the West side so you get different views. Our tour included a stop at a "touristy" but fun "panning for gold" old mining camp.
The train goes to the top of the pass and you get off and come right back down. Nothing to do at the top but photo ops.

For clarification the Chilkoot Trial is totally separate from the White Pass, nothing common other then the destination.