George Black Ferry
A free, 24/7 ferry crossing the Yukon River, connecting Dawson City to the stunning Top of the World Highway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
George Black Ferry
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, 24/7 ferry crossing the Yukon River, connecting Dawson City to the stunning Top of the World Highway.
"It's free and it runs 24/7, what more could you ask for?"
🎯 Free & Frequent Crossings
Enjoy this free, 24/7 ferry service! Crossings are short, about 3-4 minutes, and frequent.
🚗 Vehicle & Pedestrian Friendly
You can drive your vehicle or walk on the ferry. Both experiences are great!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Yukon River Crossing
Dawson City
Experience a quick, free ride across the mighty Yukon River, connecting you to new adventures.
Top of the World Highway Access
North Klondike Highway
This ferry is your gateway to the breathtaking Top of the World Highway, offering stunning vistas.
Midnight Sun Experience
Yukon River
Ride under the enchanting Midnight Sun for a magical, golden-hour glow on the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free 24/7 River Crossing
Seasonal Operation & Winter Alternatives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free & Frequent Crossings
Enjoy this free, 24/7 ferry service! Crossings are short, about 3-4 minutes, and frequent.
🚗 Vehicle & Pedestrian Friendly
You can drive your vehicle or walk on the ferry. Both experiences are great!
🧥 Chilly After Dark
If walking on at night, bring a sweater as it can get chilly after dark, even in August.
🗺️ Signage Can Be Tricky
Be mindful of signage for crossing directions, especially southbound, as it can be unclear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free & Frequent Crossings
Enjoy this free, 24/7 ferry service! Crossings are short, about 3-4 minutes, and frequent.
🚗 Vehicle & Pedestrian Friendly
You can drive your vehicle or walk on the ferry. Both experiences are great!
🧥 Chilly After Dark
If walking on at night, bring a sweater as it can get chilly after dark, even in August.
🗺️ Signage Can Be Tricky
Be mindful of signage for crossing directions, especially southbound, as it can be unclear.
☀️ Midnight Sun Views
Experience the magic of the Midnight Sun on a serene ride across the Yukon River.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the George Black Ferry for its free, 24/7 operation and its vital role in connecting Dawson City to the scenic Top of the World Highway. The short, frequent crossings and friendly staff are highlights, though some note that signage for directions can be unclear. It's a simple, essential, and enjoyable part of exploring the Yukon.
"Rode the ferry 8/13/25 and 8/14/25. Little wait on the 13th, but it's free and it runs 24/7, what more could you ask for? Staff was super nice with directions to make sure I didn't bottom out upon exit."
Drew Olsen
"The sign directions for crossing North from downtown Dawson City were very unclear. Several vans and trucks with campers in a long RV line because the over and under 24 feet was on a piece of tape. Southbound is much more defined."
Sandra Payne
"I loved riding the ferry in Dawson City. I was staying in town & my son was staying at the campground across the river, so we traveled the ferry a few times. I love that it's the way across the river! How many places can you go & ride a ferry whenever you want for FREE!
It runs 24 hours & it takes a total of about 6 minutes to cross the river. Yeah, sometimes you have to wait a bit. But whatever, it's fun, it's an experience & it's free. You can drive your vehicle onto the ferry, or you can walk on! We did both & both were great! Except if you walk on the ferry at night, make sure you have a sweater. We were there week of August 11th - 16th (yes, I'm slow getting my reviews done) & it was chilly after dark then! (After dark meaning after 1am. Haha).
The people running the ferry were great! Friendly & chatty & I loved it."
Angela Reagh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The George Black Ferry is located in Dawson City and connects the North Klondike Highway to the Top of the World Highway. It's a straightforward drive to the ferry terminal from downtown Dawson City.
While the ferry itself is accessible to pedestrians, there isn't direct public transport to the ferry terminal. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or RV.
The George Black Ferry is the primary way to access the Top of the World Highway from Dawson City. It's a scenic route that offers incredible views.
The ferry crossing itself is quite short, typically taking about 6-7 minutes to cross the Yukon River.
Yes, the George Black Ferry accommodates vehicles of all sizes, including RVs and campers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The George Black Ferry is completely free to use for all passengers and vehicles.
The ferry operates 24 hours a day during its operational season, typically from mid-May to mid-October.
The ferry typically runs from mid-May to mid-October each year, depending on river conditions. 
No booking is required as the ferry is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Since the ferry runs 24/7, you won't miss it. You may have to wait for the next departure if it's busy, but it's always running.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wait times can vary, especially during peak summer hours. While it's free and frequent, you might experience a short wait.
You'll enjoy scenic views of the Yukon River and the surrounding landscape. Riding during the Midnight Sun offers a particularly magical experience.
The waiting area is usually just a staging point for vehicles. Enjoy the anticipation of your river crossing and the views.
Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned as being available at the ferry terminal itself. It's best to use facilities in Dawson City before boarding.
The ferry staff are helpful and provide directions to ensure a smooth exit, especially for vehicles.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Yukon River, the ferry itself, and the surrounding wilderness. The Midnight Sun provides incredible lighting.
Yes, you can take photos from your vehicle. If you're walking on, you'll have more freedom to move around for better shots.
It is safe to take photos from your vehicle or designated pedestrian areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and ferry operations.
Early morning or late evening during the summer months offers the best light for photography, especially with the Midnight Sun.
You'll see the vast Yukon River and the transition from Dawson City's landscape to the wilderness on the other side, leading to the Top of the World Highway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Pack some snacks and drinks for the short ride, and be sure to point out any wildlife or interesting sights along the riverbanks. The ferry staff are generally friendly and can make the experience even more enjoyable for younger passengers.
🚗 Road Trippers & RVers
The ferry accommodates all vehicle sizes, including large RVs, and the staff are experienced in guiding them safely on and off. Key advice: Pay close attention to the signage for vehicle placement, as it can sometimes be confusing.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 The transition from Dawson City to the wilderness on the other side offers diverse visual elements. Best shots: Aim for sunrise or sunset for that golden hour glow, or embrace the ethereal light of the Midnight Sun.
If you're walking on, you'll have more flexibility to find interesting angles. Remember to be mindful of ferry operations while you're capturing your content. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Connecting to the Top of the World Highway
This highway is a seasonal road, typically open from late May to early October, and its condition can vary. It's known for being unpaved in sections and can be quite bumpy, so drivers should be prepared for a more rugged journey. The ferry's 24/7 operation ensures that travelers can make their way to this spectacular highway at any time during its open season, making it a flexible and essential part of any northern adventure.
Key takeaway: The George Black Ferry is your essential gateway to one of the most scenic drives in the Yukon. Plan your trip accordingly to coincide with the Top of the World Highway's operating season for the full experience.
The George Black Ferry Experience
Whether you're driving a vehicle, an RV, or walking on, the ferry provides a convenient way to traverse the river. Some visitors have even described it as a 'crazy thing' they've ever done, adding to the adventurous spirit of the journey.
The ferry is named after George Black, a prominent figure in Yukon's history, adding a touch of local heritage to the ride. Pro-tip: While the ferry is always running, be aware that signage for directions can sometimes be unclear, particularly for southbound traffic.
Social
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