Top 10 Things to do When Visiting Skagway, Alaska

When planning your Alaskan cruise, Skagway is a very popular destination and has so much to offer in this beautiful town. Nestled in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, Skagway is a charming town with a rich history and a gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes you'll ever see. Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or making the journey by road or rail, Skagway offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and local culture. Here's your ultimate guide to the top things to do in Skagway, Alaska.

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Unforgettable Things to do in Skagway, Alaska

1. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

No trip to Skagway is complete without a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This historic narrow-gauge railway was built during the Klondike Gold Rush and offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls. Choose from various excursions, including roundtrips to the summit or longer journeys into the Yukon Territory.

2. Explore Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Dive into Skagway's gold rush history at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Start at the visitor center, located in the restored depot of the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, to learn about the town's gold rush past. Then, explore the historic buildings and exhibits scattered throughout the town.

3. Take a Walking Tour of Historic Skagway

Stroll through the streets of Skagway on a guided walking tour to discover its well-preserved gold rush-era buildings and hear tales of the town's colorful history. Highlights include the Red Onion Saloon, once a bustling brothel, and Jeff. Smith's Parlor Museum, dedicated to the infamous con man Soapy Smith.

4. Hike the Chilkoot Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking the Chilkoot Trail is a must. This historic trail, used by gold prospectors, stretches 33 miles from Skagway into British Columbia. While the full hike takes several days, you can also opt for shorter day hikes to experience the trail's beauty and historical significance.

5. Visit the Skagway Museum and Archives

Located in the historic McCabe College Building, the Skagway Museum and Archives offer fascinating exhibits on the town's history, including Native Alaskan artifacts, gold rush memorabilia, and displays on the region's natural history.

6. Go Dog Sledding on the Denver Glacier

Experience the thrill of dog sledding with a tour to the Denver Glacier. Accessible only by helicopter, this adventure takes you to a remote glacier where you can meet the sled dogs and mushers, learn about the sport, and even take a ride on a dog sled.

7. Explore the Dyea Townsite and Chilkoot Trail Outpost

Just a short drive from Skagway, the ghost town of Dyea offers a glimpse into the past. Once a bustling gold rush town, Dyea is now a quiet area with scenic trails and remnants of its historical buildings. The nearby Chilkoot Trail Outpost provides a great starting point for exploring the area.

8. Kayak in the Lynn Canal

Discover the stunning coastline and wildlife of the Lynn Canal with a kayaking tour. Paddle through the tranquil waters, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, and keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, and bald eagles.

9. Take a Scenic Flightseeing Tour

For a bird's-eye view of the breathtaking Alaskan landscape, book a flightseeing tour. Fly over glaciers, ice fields, and rugged mountain terrain for an unforgettable perspective of the region's natural beauty.

10. Shop and Dine in Downtown Skagway

After a day of exploring, unwind in downtown Skagway with its charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Browse for unique souvenirs, local art, and handmade crafts, and savor delicious Alaskan cuisine at one of the town's eateries.

Skagway, Alaska, is a destination that offers something for everyone, from history buffs and adventure seekers to nature lovers and photographers. Whether you're here for a day or an extended stay, you'll find plenty to see and do in this picturesque Alaskan town. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the wonders of Skagway!

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