Skagway, Alaska


Skagway, Alaska

About Skagway, Alaska


AlaskaCruises.com visits Skagway, Alaska. Skagway is a Southeast Alaskan destination rich in culture, history, and character.
  • A town that blends historic charm with modern energy
  • Known for its Gold Rush-era atmosphere and preserved architecture
  • Offers a lively mix of culture, history, and local experiences

Much of Skagway reflects its past, especially in its architecture.

  • Parts of the city feel like they are frozen in 1897
  • Buildings and streets maintain their Gold Rush-era appearance
  • Creates a unique sense of stepping back in time

At the same time, modern amenities enhance the experience.

  • Restaurants and shops offer contemporary dining and retail options
  • A blend of old-world character and modern convenience
  • Enhances the overall atmosphere of the town


Things To Do in Skagway, Alaska


Skagway, Alaska
  • Dyea - A century ago, Dyea was a thriving community of 10,000 gold stampeders heading up the Chilkoot Trail to the Klondike. Now, nature has reclaimed the land. Enjoy a guided tour that takes you on a 1 1/2 hour ride on flat, dirt roads around the historic site of Dyea. You'll ride through the rain forest, visit historic ruins and the Chilkoot trail-head. Then you'll head out on the coastal tidal flats, where you'll view eagles, spectacular wildflowers and gorgeous mountain scenery. Enjoy the exercise and fresh Alaskan air.

  • Ride the world-famous White Pass and Yukon Railroad and then visit a historic gold-rush camp, where you can browse through cabins and tents that were once used as a bakery and a saloon.

  • Chilkat Glacier - Take a helicopter ride away from civilization to the Chilkat Glacier system, where frozen rivers of ice surge between high mountain peaks.

  • Glacier Point - Cruise to a remote beach at Glacier Point, then get aboard a 31-foot canoe and explore spectacular icebergs.

  • Valley of the Glaciers - Take a helicopter to the Valley of the Glaciers, where you'll land and hike across this huge sheet of ice while your guide points out crevasses and other features.

Skagway, Alaska FAQs

What are the best things to do in Skagway, Alaska?

Top things to do in Skagway include riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, visiting historic sites like Dyea and the Chilkoot Trail, taking a helicopter tour over glaciers, and exploring Glacier Point or the Valley of the Glaciers.

Is Skagway worth visiting on an Alaska cruise?

Yes, Skagway is one of the most popular stops on Alaska cruises. It offers a unique mix of Gold Rush history, scenic train rides, glacier excursions, and outdoor adventures, making it a well-rounded and memorable destination.

Can you see glaciers in Skagway, Alaska?

Yes, Skagway offers several ways to see glaciers, including helicopter tours, glacier landings, and excursions to areas like Glacier Point and the Chilkat Glacier system. Many tours provide close-up views and guided experiences on the ice.

Optional Shore Excursions in Skagway, Alaska


Skagway, Alaska
  • White Pass Scenic Railway
    Skagway's White Pass & Yukon Route is the "Scenic Railway of the World." Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The train climbs to the 2,865-foot summit in just 20 miles and features steep grades of 3.9% and cliff-hanging turns of 16 degrees. Experience the breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles and historic sites from the comfort of vintage-style parlor cars. See Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and the original Klondike "Trail of '98."

  • Valley of the Glaciers via Helicopter
    Experience the beauty of Alaska's glaciers as you fly aboard a turbine helicopter and land for a glacier walk. View the historic town of Skagway, once host to 20,000 prospectors, and Dyea, gateway to the Klondike gold fields. Leave these traces of civilization behind as your helicopter whisks you away to the Valley of the Glaciers. In this rugged expanse that is accessible only by helicopter, see glaciers surrounded by towering mountains peaks. Your pilot lands on or at the base of a glacier for a rare opportunity to explore this incredible phenomenon. A guide is on hand to answer your questions and explain the geological forces at work.

  • Hike & Float The Chilkoot Trail
    For the slightly more adventurous, this tour has it all! Begin with a guided van tour from the Skagway pier to the historic Gold Rush town site of Dyea, trailhead of the famous Chilkoot Trail. Here, you'll retrace the footsteps of the gold-hungry stampeders who forged this route over one hundred years ago, while knowledgeable guides weave a mixture of natural history and Klondike folklore. Hike the first two miles of the Chilkoot before it brings you to the shore of the gentle Taiya River, where your 18-foot raft waits. Your experienced river guide will outfit you for your float back to Dyea. At trip's end, a riverside snack is provided before heading back to your ship in Skagway. This float trip has no white water.

  • Horseback Riding Adventure
    See the remains of what was once a city of 10,000 greedy stampeders as you wind your way through one of Alaska's most breathtaking valleys just as the original stampeders did...on horseback! This adventure begins with a narrated drive from your cruise ship, through historic Skagway and on to Dyea. You'll then enter the Klondike Gold Rush National Park and begin your trek on horseback. As your horses near the old waterfront of Dyea Valley, there will be time for photo opportunities and to see spawning salmon (in season). After your ride, Alaskan smoked salmon pate and beverages are provided.

  • Dog Sledding & Glacier Flightseeing
    Combine your helicopter flightseeing tour with the experience of one of Alaska's favorite sports - dog sledding. After flying over spectacular glacier sites, land at the dog camp on the Denver Glacier. Experienced guides will introduce you to the world of "mushing" and the art of dog sledding. You have the opportunity to stand on the sled and mush or relax in the sled and observe the breathtaking environment. Meet professional mushers and friendly dogs on this unique Alaskan experience. Warm clothing and sunglasses are recommended.

  • Haines Wilderness Kayak Adventure & Cruise
    Your adventure begins with a 35-minute cruise down North America's longest and deepest fjord aboard a high-speed catamaran. Arriving in Haines, your guides will provide a weather update and wildlife report during a short bus ride to the launch site. With a variety of local paddle sites to choose from, your trip will be tailored to the destination where weather and wildlife trends are most favorable. Depending on the paddle site and season, you might see eagles, seals, sea lions, otters, numerous sea birds, spawning salmon, brown bears or moose. A picnic style meal will be served either before or after your kayak experience.

  • Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling
    Join professional mountain guides for a climbing adventure on the smooth granite walls of the White Pass. There are climbs for all abilities and no experience is necessary. Your tour begins with a short narrated drive through Skagway and up the Klondike Highway. From the Highway you'll hike a short distance to the base of rock cliffs smoothed by retreating glaciers. Here you will don rock climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses. After a safety briefing and introduction to climbing, rope up and start climbing the clean granite. There are many routes to choose from: some climbs are easy, others offer more challenge and each ends with a aerial view of the Skagway River, the White Pass Yukon Route Railway, and the surrounding wilderness. You will have the chance to climb several of the routes and try rappelling on the cliffs. Professional mountain guides are with you during all aspects of your climb and your safety and enjoyment are always their primary concern.

Additional Shore Excursions are available. Please call us toll free at 1-800-201-6937 for more information and reservations.


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