Skagway, AK
Welcome to Skagway, a town where the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush is alive and well! Perfectly preserved as a time capsule from the 1890s, Skagway offers a unique blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventure. As a premier port of call on Inside Passage itineraries, it is frequently visited by major lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Passengers are drawn to its authentic historical atmosphere, the world-famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and access to the vast, wild landscapes of Alaska and Canada.
The most iconic Skagway experience is a journey on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This narrow-gauge railway, built during the Gold Rush, climbs nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles, offering stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. The trip itself is a marvel of historic engineering.
For history buffs, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a must-see. The visitor center is located in the old train depot, and much of the historic downtown, with its restored false-front buildings and wooden boardwalks, is part of the park. You can take a walking tour led by a park ranger to fully immerse yourself in the town's storied past.
For a true Alaskan adventure, consider a helicopter tour to a glacier. These excursions fly you over spectacular icefields and often land on a glacier, where you might have the chance to go for a walk or even experience a dog sled ride on the snow.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The nearby town of Haines is a popular side trip, accessible via a 45-minute high-speed passenger ferry. Haines is renowned for its abundant wildlife, particularly at the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, and offers a quieter, more arts-focused alternative to Skagway.
A longer day trip can take you into Canada's Yukon Territory. Many bus tours follow the Klondike Highway, paralleling the trail of the gold seekers. These tours often stop at scenic viewpoints and the small desert town of Carcross before returning to Skagway. Remember to bring your passport for this cross-border excursion.
The ghost town of Dyea, located about 9 miles from Skagway, is another fascinating destination. This was the starting point for the treacherous Chilkoot Trail and a bustling rival to Skagway during the gold rush. Today, only a few building foundations and a cemetery remain, offering a poignant glimpse into the past.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The cruise ship docks in Skagway are conveniently located right on the edge of town. There are three main docks—the Railroad Dock, Broadway Dock, and Ore Dock—all of which are within a 5 to 15-minute flat walk to the historic downtown district on Broadway Street. Ships always dock here; tendering is not used.
Because of the close proximity, most passengers choose to walk into town. However, local shuttle services, like the SMART bus, are available for a small fee and make continuous loops between the docks and key points in town. The dock area itself is industrial, but shops, tour offices, and restaurants are just a few steps away at the start of the town proper.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The official currency in Skagway, as in the rest of Alaska, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and tour companies. ATMs are readily available along the main streets for cash withdrawals. There is no need for currency exchange for visitors from the United States, and other currencies like the Euro are not accepted.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Skagway is a very safe town for tourists, with a low crime rate. It is perfectly safe to explore the historic downtown area independently on foot. The primary safety concerns are related to the natural environment rather than crime. When venturing on trails or near the edge of town, be aware of the potential for encounters with wildlife, particularly bears. Always follow posted signs and local advice regarding bear safety.
For excursions into the wilderness, such as hiking, rafting, or glacier exploration, booking a guided tour is highly recommended. Local guides are experts on the terrain and weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The weather in Skagway during the cruise season (May through September) is classic Southeast Alaska: cool and often wet. Summer temperatures typically range from the low 50s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (10-18°C), though it can occasionally get warmer on sunny days. As part of a temperate rainforest, rain is common, so expecting some precipitation is wise.
The key to comfort is dressing in layers. Pack a waterproof and windproof jacket, sweaters or fleece, long pants, and comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes. A hat and gloves are also recommended, as it can be especially chilly on the water or at higher elevations, such as during the train excursion. The weather can change very quickly, so it's best to be prepared for all conditions in a single day.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The best way to explore Skagway's compact historic downtown is on foot. The entire area is flat, walkable, and easily navigated from the cruise docks. For those who prefer not to walk or wish to travel further, the local SMART (Skagway Municipal and Regional Transit) bus system offers convenient and affordable transportation around town and to and from the docks.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not available in Skagway. A few taxi services operate in town for specific destinations. For reaching the most popular sights outside of town, organized tours are the standard. The most famous of these is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, which departs directly from the cruise dock area. Various bus and van tours also provide transportation for excursions to the Yukon, Dyea, and other scenic spots.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Shopping in Skagway is centered along the historic Broadway Street, where beautifully restored Gold Rush-era buildings house a variety of stores. You'll find a wide range of souvenirs, from classic t-shirts and magnets to more unique local items. Popular purchases include products with the 'Made in Alaska' seal, such as ulu knives, smoked salmon, and local jams.
Be sure to browse the many galleries featuring authentic Native Alaskan art, including Tlingit carvings, masks, and jewelry. Gold-nugget jewelry is another popular specialty, harking back to the town's heritage. While some shops are locally owned year-round businesses, many are seasonal outposts of larger chains found in other Alaskan ports. Prices are generally fixed and not open to negotiation.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Your adventure begins with a narrated drive and a short nature hike to an adventure park where expert guides will outfit you with state-of-the-art safety equipment. First, you will challenge yourself on a series of ropes course crossings, including suspended bridges and raised balance beams. Next, you will soar through the lush Alaskan canopy on a fantastic series of six zip lines, including the thrilling “Walk the Plank” zip. This incredible adventure is perfect for all abilities and offers amazing mountain views.
Embark on a personal boat journey through the upper Lynn Canal, exploring the storied ports of the Klondike Gold Rush. Your expedition continues down America's deepest fjord, where you can view breathtaking cascading waterfalls and diverse wildlife. This tour makes a memorable stop at a natural harbor sculpted by glaciers and includes a snack of local smoked salmon.
Travel the Klondike Highway on a private luxury tour from Skagway to Emerald Lake, Yukon, in a 6-passenger Cadillac Escalade. Throughout your journey, you will enjoy historic commentary and million-dollar views of the landscape. The tour also includes a stop at the village of Carcross for more sightseeing and shopping, with snacks available along the way.
Hike the first two miles of the historic Chilkoot Trail with a naturalist guide before floating down the scenic Taiya River on a stable raft. After your float, enjoy a riverside snack and then travel by van up the White Pass for sweeping views of mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes. Your tour concludes with a photo stop at the iconic "Welcome to Alaska" sign before returning to Skagway; a valid passport is required.
Embark on a full-day shore excursion by mini-bus into Canada's Yukon territory to explore stunning wilderness. The tour stops at Caribou Crossing for a BBQ chicken lunch and a visit to a wildlife taxidermy museum, sled dog camp, and petting farm. This Skagway sightseeing tour also includes Gold Rush displays and requires all passengers to bring a current valid passport.
Travel farther than most on this half-day mini-bus excursion into Canada, journeying up the White Pass and along the Klondike Highway to the Yukon border. Your tour includes a stop at the impressive Yukon Suspension Bridge to view the Tutshi River canyon. The bridge stop offers educational displays, a gift shop, and the only restrooms available on the route; a valid passport is required.
Embark on an active, family-oriented adventure with a hike on the world-famous Chilkoot Trail and a float down a peaceful river. This excursion includes 1.5 to 2 hours of moderately strenuous hiking and a 40-minute raft trip where you'll learn about regional history. Taking place in the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, this tour offers a chance to escape the crowds and see potential wildlife.
Enjoy the classic Skagway tour with a drive down historic Broadway street before climbing over 3,500 feet in a heated bus to the White Pass Summit. This 2.5-hour journey includes five to six photo stops at scenic locations. Sights along the way include Pitchfork Falls, the Moore Bridge Overlook, Tormented Valley, and the “Welcome to Alaska” sign.
This tour is booked directly with the operator, comprised of individuals who live and work year-round in Alaska and possess intimate knowledge of the area. Their team understands the way the cruise industry works in Skagway, ensuring a well-organized experience. You are welcome to contact them directly with questions about their tours or for general knowledge about this beautiful place.
This three-hour tour takes you from Skagway to the White Pass Summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge. With a local, high-quality guide, you will have a wonderful opportunity to view the stunning scenery of the White Pass and its surrounding area. Please note that valid passports are required for this excursion.
Learn about the history of Skagway and the Klondike Gold Rush on this tour from a 100% Alaskan-owned and operated company. The tour makes stops at amazing photo locations and provides over 30 minutes for you to experience the Yukon Suspension Bridge. As you will be entering Canada, a valid passport is required for all travelers.
Experience a unique triple combo tour offered by a 100% Alaskan-owned and operated company. The tour makes stops at amazing photo locations and visits a remote dog sled camp that is not overly crowded with tourists. With three times more opportunity to see wildlife than tours that only go to White Pass, this excursion requires a valid passport for entry into Canada.
Travel the Klondike Highway with a 100% Alaskan-owned company that stops to explain the history of the valleys, rivers, and waterfalls you see. The tour continues to a remote sled dog camp in the Canadian tundra where you can play with husky puppies with no time limits. The "Summer Sled Dog" option includes a cart ride pulled by huskies, while the "Yukon Husky Puppy Playtime" tour does not.
Ride with a team of 16 powerful huskies, many of them veterans of the Iditarod, on their summer training run. Afterward, you'll have the chance to cuddle with adorable Alaskan husky puppies that will one day be sled dogs themselves. You will also learn from the mushers what it takes for both humans and dogs to become an Iditarod champion.
Join a fun-paced, 3-hour joy-ride through Skagway’s history on this spectacular 18-mile ride. You will travel along a stunning ocean road beside the Taiya Inlet, enjoying the pristine beauty of the area. There will be plenty of opportunities to take beautiful photos and possibly even see some wildlife along the way.
If you are looking for a fun, fast, and exhilarating excursion, this is the right place for you. Get ready to wind through the Tongass National Rainforest while soaring over glacially fed waterfalls on a thrilling zipline course. This tour features more lines than any other zipline course in Alaska.
Discover Haines, a photographer's paradise known for its unlimited landscapes and abundant wildlife like Bald Eagles, bears, whales, and moose. Our professional photography guides bring passion and expertise to your tour. They can help you get the photos of a lifetime by sharing their expert knowledge of the area.
Explore and learn about Skagway on a fun, eco-friendly, and effortless E-bike. Your knowledgeable guides will entertain you with the town's history. You will also get a behind-the-scenes look at what life is like in a remote coastal Alaskan town.
Experience the changing seasons of Alaska and Canada on this tour up the Klondike Highway to the Yukon. You'll see jaw-dropping scenic views with stops at locations like Pitchfork Falls, Tormented Valley, and Fraser, British Columbia. Depending on conditions, you may reach the 'Welcome to the Yukon' sign and even get a chance to stop and play in the snow.
This panoramic tour takes you by small bus to scenic waterfall destinations with commentary from a knowledgeable local guide. Your stops include photo opportunities at Pitchfork Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and International Falls. A special stop is made at the Gold Rush Cemetery, which includes a moderate hike on an unpaved trail to see Reid Falls.
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Sailings visiting Skagway during the the peak season of summer are considerably more expensive than the the low season of spring. Overall cruises that visit Skagway are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. Check out the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.
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