Skagway, a charming town nestled in the northernmost point of Alaska’s Inside Passage, is a step back into the Gold Rush era. Surrounded by towering mountains and deep fjords, Skagway combines rich history with spectacular natural beauty. If you’re arriving by cruise ship or exploring the state by land, Skagway offers a blend of adventure, culture, and scenic wonder.
Things to Do in Skagway
1. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
One of Skagway’s top attractions, this historic narrow-gauge railway takes you on a thrilling ride through steep cliffs, mountain passes, and scenic valleys. Originally built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, today it offers breathtaking views and fascinating historical context. Choose from short round-trips or extended excursions into Canada’s Yukon Territory.
2. Stroll Through Downtown Skagway
Skagway’s downtown area is like a living museum, with wooden boardwalks and preserved 19th-century buildings. Visit the shops, grab souvenirs, and admire the restored architecture. Many of the buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which includes museums and visitor centers.
3. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
This park tells the story of thousands of prospectors who came seeking fortune in the Yukon. Explore the museum, take a ranger-led walking tour, and see original gold rush-era buildings. It’s both educational and immersive.
4. Take a Hike on the Chilkoot Trail
For the more adventurous, the Chilkoot Trail is a 33-mile historic route once used by gold seekers. While most visitors won’t hike the full trail, you can enjoy shorter scenic portions that offer waterfalls, rivers, and stunning forest scenery.
5. Explore the Skagway Museum
Located in the historic City Hall, this small but informative museum houses artifacts from the Gold Rush and local Tlingit culture. It’s a great way to get more context about Skagway’s fascinating past.
6. Enjoy a Brewery Tour or Craft Beer Tasting
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Stop by Skagway Brewing Company for locally brewed beers like the signature Spruce Tip Blonde Ale. This is a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring, with hearty food and a cozy Alaskan pub atmosphere.
7. Go Dog Sledding or Meet Alaskan Huskies
Experience dog sledding on a glacier (via helicopter tour) or enjoy summer mushing demonstrations where you can meet the dogs and learn about the sport that’s so central to Alaskan culture.
8. Take a Glacier or Wildlife Tour
Skagway is a launch point for boat and helicopter tours that explore glaciers, fjords, and wildlife habitats. Spot whales, seals, and bald eagles, or land on a glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime walk on ice.
9. Try Local Alaskan Cuisine
Restaurants in Skagway serve up fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties. Try dishes like halibut tacos, salmon chowder, or reindeer sausage. Don’t miss sweet treats like spruce tip syrup or wild berry jams.
10. Explore Yakutania Point and Smuggler’s Cove
For an easy and rewarding hike, head to Yakutania Point. The trail begins near the airport and offers coastal views, rocky beaches, and opportunities to see seals or sea birds. Continue to Smuggler’s Cove for more solitude and stunning vistas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Skagway
1. Is Skagway worth visiting?
Yes, Skagway is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and cruise travelers. Its unique Gold Rush-era charm, dramatic landscapes, and wide range of outdoor activities make it one of Alaska’s top destinations.
2. What is Skagway best known for?
Skagway is best known for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s. Today, it’s popular for the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, scenic hikes, and well-preserved Gold Rush-era buildings.
3. Can I explore Skagway in one day?
Absolutely. Most cruise visitors explore Skagway in one day, hitting top attractions like the train ride, downtown shops, museums, and nearby hikes. However, staying longer allows for glacier tours and more in-depth exploration.
4. Is the White Pass train ride worth it?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular and scenic excursions in Alaska. The ride features breathtaking views of mountains, gorges, waterfalls, and trestle bridges—along with historical commentary about the Gold Rush.
5. Are there outdoor activities in Skagway?
Definitely. You can hike trails like the Chilkoot Trail or Lower Dewey Lake Trail, kayak, take wildlife tours, or go dog sledding (in summer or via glacier tours in winter).
Final Thoughts
Skagway may be small, but it’s packed with history, adventure, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Whether you’re chasing echoes of the Gold Rush or soaking in the scenery, Skagway provides an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
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