Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, the initial incorporated city in Alaska and the entryway to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, is a well-preserved section of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Vintage trains chug through this charming Alaskan town, while cruise ships frequent its port along the Inside Passage.
Whether you choose to explore the town independently or opt for guided tours, you'll discover a plethora of sights and activities in this historically rich area. For a great starting point, visit the Skagway Visitor Center, housed in the iconic AB Hall – one of the most photographed buildings in Alaska.
Stroll along Skagway's historic downtown district and Broadway Street, lined with colorful Victorian-era buildings housing boutiques, galleries, souvenir shops, and eateries.
The Chilkoot Trail is a historic 33-mile trek where you can experience part of the trail at a time. Following the path of gold prospectors in the late 1890s, you travel through rainforests with wildflowers, birds, and clear streams. Many decide to do a combo hike and raft float down the Taiya River.
If glaciers are your thing, then consider a flight-seeing tour to Glacier Bay. Flights average 90 minutes, and you can see the Chilkoot Trail from up above. Land on the glacier and touch ice hundreds of feet thick and thousands of years old.
Dyea National Historic Site: Visit the ghost town of Dyea, once a bustling Gold Rush settlement and gateway to the Chilkoot Trail, now preserved as a national historic site with interpretive trails and artifacts.
The White Pass Train Route in Skagway offers the most picturesque Alaskan adventure, starting with a 28-mile trip. Enjoy the stunning views of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, and trestles while listening to historical commentary in vintage passenger carriages. Along the journey down the mountain, you'll find perfect photo opportunities at scenic spots like Skagway Scenic Overlook, Pitchfork Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and more.
Explore the Yukon Territory by journeying along the Klondike Highway. Experience the stunning beauty and grandeur of the Yukon on a guided trip to Carcross, Canada, and Emerald Lake.
Discover the Yukon Wildlife Museum, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Museum, and immerse yourself in a visit to a Husky Puppy Camp.
Experience golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Club by the Chilkat River, a Nicklaus Design course known for scenic beauty. Accessible from Skagway to Haines by catamaran, passing Fort Seward. Grab gear at the club and enjoy a nine-hole round amidst wildlife and stunning surroundings integrated with nature. Binocular-equipped viewing stations enhance the experience.
With flat streets and good sidewalks, Skagway is a great town to explore on foot or on bicycle.
Buses run between the cruise ship docks to downtown.
