Best Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska for Cruise Visitors
Skagway may be small, but it is packed with history, scenery, and some of the most memorable experiences in Alaska. As a year-round Skagway resident and the owner of Local Skagway Day Trips, I’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time in port. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Skagway, Alaska, this local guide will help you make the most of your time in port.
🚞 Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
One of the most popular experiences in Skagway is the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This narrow-gauge train climbs from sea level into the mountains, following the path stampeders took during the Klondike Gold Rush.
Expect dramatic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and alpine terrain as you travel toward the summit.
🌄 Drive the Klondike Highway & White Pass Summit
For those who want more flexibility and photo stops, driving the Klondike Highway offers one of the most scenic routes in Alaska.
You’ll travel past waterfalls, mountain overlooks, and rugged alpine landscapes as you climb toward White Pass and into the Yukon.
One of the easiest ways to experience this route is on a small-group tour with Local Skagway Day Trips, where you can stop along the way for photos, short walks, and local stories that bring the landscape to life.
🐕 Visit a Yukon Dog Sled Camp
Dog mushing is an iconic part of Alaskan culture, and several tours from Skagway include a visit to a working sled dog camp in the Yukon.
These experiences often include:
- Meeting the dogs and mushers
- Learning about sled dog racing
- Optional summer cart rides pulled by the dogs
It’s a fun and memorable way to experience a living part of Alaska’s heritage.
🌉 Walk the Yukon Suspension Bridge
Located just across the Canadian border, the Yukon Suspension Bridge offers a unique stop surrounded by rugged wilderness.
You can walk across the bridge high above the river and explore interpretive trails that share the natural and cultural history of the region.
Many visitors combine this with a scenic drive over White Pass for a half-day adventure.
🪦 Explore Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls
Just outside of town, the Gold Rush Cemetery tells the stories of Skagway’s early days, including the infamous Soapy Smith.
A short walk beyond the cemetery leads to Lower Reid Falls, a beautiful waterfall tucked into the forest. It’s an easy and worthwhile stop for most visitors.
🏘️ Walk Through Historic Downtown Skagway
Skagway’s downtown is a National Historic District, with preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era.
You’ll find:
- Wooden boardwalks
- Historic storefronts
- Local shops and restaurants
- Museums and visitor centers
It’s an easy area to explore on foot and a great way to get a feel for the town.
⭐ Best Way to See Skagway in Limited Time
If you’re visiting on a cruise, time is limited, and choosing how to spend it matters.
Large bus tours can cover a lot of ground, but many visitors prefer a more personal experience.
Local Skagway Day Trips offers owner-operated, small-group tours led by a year-round Skagway resident. Each tour is personally guided and designed to give you a more flexible, engaging experience, with time for photos, questions, and stops that larger tours often miss.
Popular options include:
- Scenic drives over White Pass
- Yukon Suspension Bridge tours
- Yukon dog musher camp experiences
- Shorter highlights tours for tighter schedules
📍 Final Tips for Visiting Skagway
- Passports are required for any tour that crosses into Canada
- Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers
- Book tours in advance during peak cruise season
- Allow time to explore downtown before or after your excursion
Skagway is one of those places where the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether you explore by train, by road, or on a guided tour, the combination of history and scenery makes it a stop you won’t forget.