20 Fantastic Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska You Need to Try Thank you sharing, Alaska seems to be of a postcard. There are no restrooms available at the glacier. Take an Alaska Cruise to Skagway and youll also find a vibrant local community, home to a rich collection of local galleries, curio shops and restaurants serving seafood plucked fresh from nearby waters. We were advised not to eat on the trail due to bears coming out of hibernation but we did not encounter any bears. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Skagway - Tripadvisor Skagway seems like a good starter town too before you set off cruising with a lot to do some port towns have very little and you can feel like your wasting a day (which when you are short on travel time is not a great feeling! Poke around on your own, or select from a variety of commercial tours. If you want to write to someone back home, then Skagway offers the perfect opportunity. Things to Do in Skagway Popular things to do Ports of Call Tours Half-day Tours Bus Tours Top Picks Private & Custom Tours Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours Walking & Biking Tours Likely to Sell Out Sporting Events Ways to tour Skagway Book these experiences for a close-up look at Skagway. Trying the locally-brewed beer at the Skagway Brewing Co. caps off a day of exploration in Skagway. Along the walkways between the ship and town are colored shapes painted on the path. Take in our public artwork. Then take a motorcoach transfer along the scenic Klondike Highway back to Skagway, stopping along the way at Emerald Lake. I really want to go to Alaska the falls looks so pretty. All were very busy when we visited. Guided tours by NPS rangers are available. When riding the dog sled, you can choose to stand and mush or sit and relax. If you are there in salmon season, Pullen Creek is also a great place to see the salmon run. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Surrounded by mountains, with many streams and rivers and within a National Park, Skagway lures both adventurers and casual visitors. This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible. Found something nice to remember a special trip with. I visited Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum which is a part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway during my cruise stop in Skagway. The National Park Service has restored several of the historically significant buildings in town. When youre on an Alaskan Cruise you never see a Welcome to Alaska sign. Completed in 1900, the White Pass & Yukon Route followed the White Pass trail that the prospectors took. We had 2 cocktails each and every drink was amazing. In a town the size of Skagway, there isnt a big transportation network. The White Pass itself is incredibly stunning on a clear day. You might also see other wildlife such as bears or seals enjoying a salmon meal. Things to do in Skagway Welcome to Skagway The Klondike Gold Rush ended a century ago, but the "Call of the Wild" is still strong in Alaska's historic frontier town of Skagway. I really cant wait to go there myself and see it! Cruise Ship from Skagway to Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. Its very worth the short walk off the main street to Skagway Distillery. If your cruise started in Seattle, you . Explore Klondike Gold National Historic Park mountain peaks, lakes and more on a visit to Skagway. A catamaran ride along the fjords from Skagway to Haines provides views of a dozen stunning waterfalls and the possibility of spotting bald eagles and harbor seals. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Much of the town has been preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where rangers offer free walking tours around the historic district. Skagway Alaska Downtown - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor MORE: Icy Strait Point, Alaska: Cruise Port Overview. The WP&YR now operates as a scenic train ride taking passengers to the top of the White Pass and also continues to Bennett, British Columbia, and Carcross, Yukon. What the heck is a Klondike Doughboy? This hike was the highlight of our cruise to Alaska. Located in several nicely restored buildings in Skagway, this National park is very well done and provides a great deal of information free to the public. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. Take a stroll through town and examine the eclectic mix of styles of architecture. After you write your note, then you can drop the cards in the mailbox at the Skagway Post Office. Hi, this may be of interest to you: 10 Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska. What an awesome little town. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Upon arrival, you view a safety video and are outfitted with vests and boots, and off you go. I came to know of the Pullen Creek Stream Walk in Skagway while waiting to get on the White Pass Summit Train ride at the train station near the ship docking area. The trail suddenly stopped at many boulders, and trail markers disappeared. Picture Alaska. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagwaybut today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaskas colorful history, pristine wildlife and unrivaled natural beauty. Stroll To Gold Rush Cemetery And Reid Falls. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park. 1. One cool little courtyard that would normally have a restaurant and coffee shop and gift shop, was closed for lack of workforce. Walk Main Street 5. Prices are definitely a rip off, but everything in Alasksa is expensive. I would not consider visiting if not for a port stop, but it was nice to see. This is a marvelous Canadian and Alaskan adventure. From there, you can catch a ride on a helicopter that will take you out to nearby glaciers. I love the history ofthe gold rush and the fact that the gurls in the red onion saloon still dress like they did back then. Visitors frequently comment that shopping in Skagway is the best, Experience one of the engineering marvels of the world; the White Pass & Yukon, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park was authorized in 1976 to preserve and, Great experiences dont have to break the budget. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Skagway - Tripadvisor Either way, you will be amply rewarded with the sights and activities in and around Skagway. At every turn, youll find yourself immersed in gold rush lore, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon that still keeps a pistol that Wyatt Earp left behind en route to the Klondike, to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a classic narrow-gauge railway that traverses rugged mountains and passes cascading waterfalls and towering glaciers as it connects Skagway to Whitehorse deep in the Yukon. Staff were friendly, the atmosphere was convivial and the beer i was breathing so deep to smell the nature. Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise Port Day Even so, the scenery makes the port a great spot to visit. This is a nice walk along the stream, shaded. What Happens If Im Caught Sneaking Alcohol on a Cruise? The sidewalks and the buildings are wood, There are plenty of eating and drinking places around So many interesting buildings to look and indeed visit. Compared to most Down Towns in USA, Skagway Down Town is very small.It was nice to see the old world charm that had been preserved. 2023 Cruzely.com | Laisman Publishing, LLC, The two-hour tour runs about $340 per adult, 44 Must-Have Alaskan Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Secrets, How Alaskan Cruises Differ From Caribbean Cruises (And Its NOT Just Colder), 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 Youd Never Think Of), 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of), Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Secrets, Tricks, and Freebies, Can I Use My Phone? The hike is fairly steep and you are going from sea level to about 3,000 feet in elevation. Relax in Molly Walsh or Pullen Creek Park. Dog Sledding. By Steve5863. We stopped at the The Alaska Fudge Company and we purchased (2) of the Klondike No Nut (milk chocolate) fudge bars and Pricing is medium to very high end, but many items are very unique and one of a kind. Also, for the best photographs, walk out between the cars. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Climbing over the many boulders and keeping the view of the lake to the left helped with guidance. Anchorage: Pre and Post Alaska Cruise Ideas. Lower Dewey Lake Hiking Trail. More importantly, you can also enjoy a drink and meal whilst being served by girls typical of the gold rush era. 11. Its hard to imagine a more Alaskan port than sailing into Skagway. This is a very nice studio and the staff are knowledgeable--not seasonal college kids here for the summer. Nice buildings along the main street - good vibes to walk around and enjoy the town. There are so many possibilities when you visit Skagway, Alaska; you will have trouble choosing just one. Chilkoot Lake Kayaking. North of Juneau, Skagway entices visitors to discover the Yukon Territory's mining past and spectacular wilderness of forests, glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls. If you really want to enjoy the beauty without going far, then look for the Pullen Creek StreamWalk. The Taiya River (also known as the Dyea River) near Skagway, Alaska, flows for 17 miles. But you can be sure the friendly huskies will give you a blood-pumping ride of your life while you enjoy breathtaking views of the wildlife and magnificent mountains. No matter which way you turn, there are gorgeous mountains. The scenery is as amazing as the ride is exhilarating. Enjoy a round of golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Links, one of the worlds most scenic golf courses, in nearby Haines. We were warmly greeted and offered samples of their gin and vodka. Explore the town on a Skagway excursion. Shopping | Skagway, Alaska Save. Inside, it plays up Skagways past. Wed suggest the $5 pass as youll see markers all around town where it stops, providing a ride for folks that dont want to or cant easily walk. Drive or walk to the Lookout on Dyea Road. There are several excellent one- and two-hour hikes that start in Skagway. Well, today you can now ride the rails on a scenic route that takes about three hours and carries you up into the mountains. Things for a toddler to do on Alaska port days - Alaska Forum 1. Walking short distances is required and you must be able to raise your knee 8 inches. Lastly, seats on the train sell out quickly so I recommend reserving in advance. On the other hand, if youre looking for what life is like in current Alaska, its not a great example. The good news is that all the docks have paths leading right into town, with easy walks. Pro Tip: Passports are required for this trip. The WP&YR is used for combination tours, like a train and bike tour. The Skagway Bennett Scenic Railroad Journey takes the same route used in 1898 by Klondike stampeders. Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, and Dead Horse Gulch are just a few of the landmarks that the narrator will point out. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Here are a few things to do in Skagway Alaska. Great cocktails! Once you reach the magnificent glaciers, you will have time to explore Mother Natures greatest marvels, learn about glacier creation from experienced guides, wander around, snap photos galore, and walk on the river of ice. Pitchfork falls is so beautiful and yunkun pass and the view of glacier is mesmerizing. The Gold Rush Cemetery is the oldest graveyard in Skagway and an exciting point of interest. The train cars have restrooms and heat, and each person receives bottled water during the trip. The passenger coaches hold approximately 43 passengers. Take a train ride and explore waterfalls, glacial rivers, and beautiful terrain on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Red Onion Saloon was originally a place for men back in the days of the gold rush. We stopped in here after hiking to the cemetery and Lower Reid Falls in Skagway. 1. You can take an easy pace on your way to and from the cruise ship. There was a gunfight and both were killed. However, the Skagway Totem Poles are the most convenient for viewing as theyre located adjacent to a shop in downtown. There are lots of beautiful art galleries, places to buy furs, jewelry stores, souvenir shops and of course great places to eat! The station is right by the cruise docks, so you cant miss it. Skagway Mining Co, customer service is the worst! This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Skagway, Alaska Virtual Visit - U.S. National Park Service Follow in the footsteps of the 1898 Gold Rush stampeders as you head into the Yukon on this guided tour from Skagway. Finally, this route has been awarded the International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. We visited the first week of June 22 and while there was plenty to do (some delicious beer to be drunk) and see, there were many empty storefront. You will have the opportunity to see everything from seals and whales to wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. History buffs will enjoy the National, Skagway is a shoppers paradise; an ideal place to shop, sit, look, and linger. Nearly a million tourists visit each year. Can you think of a better way to enjoy Alaska? The whole experience can be completed in about thirty minutes. You have entered an incorrect email address! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Planned Our Own Excursion During Cruise Skagway Stop - Amazing Family Hike (with older kids), Super strenuous and take note of the conditions! Not many people have heard of the Yukon Province in Canada let alone visited there. After the ride over, youll actually land and be able to walk on the glacier itself. As the train climbs up 2,865 feet to the summit of the White Pass, you will see the original Klondike Trail of 1898, Bridal Veil Falls, Dead Horse Gulch, and Inspiration Point. 10 Free Things To Do In Skagway, Alaska | QuartzMountain While there are many activities and attractions to enjoy in Skagway, one of the most popular adventures is hiking the Chilkoot Trail. From awe inspiring hikes to leisurely strolls around our historic district & taking in our outdoor artwork, Skagway has wallet friendly options for all interests & abilities. White Pass and Yukon Route Railway The number one thing to do in Skagway is to hop aboard the White Pass Yukon Railway. The options are as informative as they are enjoyable. Find Things to Do in Skagway on Viator. Jump into a sled designed for a summer spin to get a taste of the experience. The wildlife and wilderness photographs are absolutely stunning. The mission of Klondike Brewing Company perfectly sums up what a visit to Skagway should be: to emphasize the spirit of the moment, and to remind all to pause and celebrate the trail., READ NEXT: Alaska Cruise Weather In May, June And July: What to Expect in the Early Season.