So, you have already decided that you are going to Alaska. You have booked your cruise, and now the anticipation has begun! As your sail date gets closer, the fun and exciting part of choosing what to do in each port is now in reach! Each port has its own personality that makes it unique. Juneau is our state capital, where whale watching is abundant. Ketchikan is known for its totem poles and great fishing. Glacier Bay National Park is undeniably a highlight of a trip to the inside passage because of its grandeur and beauty.
For some, Skagway is a wildcard…people don’t know what to expect. Most have heard about the White Pass & Yukon Route train ride, but there is so much to discover in this gold rush town! Here is our advice on how to maximize your time in Skagway!
Since the train is such a popular attraction in town, let’s start our day here! No trip to Skagway is complete without a ride on this historic, narrow gage railroad. There are several different train ride options, but in order to make the best use of your time, we suggest doing the 9 am summit train. This is a 2.5 hour ride to the summit of the White Pass. You will get to learn a lot about the history of the area and the lengths that people went to on their quest for gold in 1898. And let’s not forget the views…stunning from beginning to end!
This round-trip journey brings you back into Skagway just in time for lunch! There are many options for lunch in Skagway. From walk up service of some of the best crab legs in Southeast Alaska at Woadies Southeast Seafood to a sit-down meal of Halibut and Spruce Tip Ale from Skagway Brewing Company, you are never more than a few blocks away from delicious food and great atmosphere!
Once your bellies are full, you still have a great deal of time left to explore Skagway. Let’s maximize our time by renting an electric bike from Klondike Electric Bicycles. By doing so, you will have the freedom to explore some great places throughout town in a unique and unforgettable way! Upon arriving at Klondike Electric Bicycles, you will be greeted and shown how to safely ride their fleet of Rad Power Bikes.
A three hour electric bike rental will allow you the time explore some hidden gems on the outskirts of the Historic District. The first stop on your ride is the Gold Rush Cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place of some of Skagway’s most colorful and notorious characters, including Jefferson “Soapy” Smith. Step back in time as you read the names of Skagway’s founding fathers. Then listen for the sound of falling water as you follow the path to Lower Reid Falls. This is the most accessible waterfall in Skagway and is a perfect spot for beautiful photographs!
Once you are done at the waterfall, it is time to put those electric bikes to good use. You will cross the Skagway River via the bridge and head towards the overlook. It is in this spot that you will see a birds-eye view of the town of Skagway and its port…including an opportunity to take a postcard quality picture of your cruise ship among the majestic backdrop. Once you have filled your “memory cards”, watch your speed as you head down the hill on your way back to town.
This is the choose your own adventure part of the itinerary. You will have time to gold pan at Alaska 360 or visit the manicured show garden at Jewell Gardens (which also features a glass blowing studio). Both of which are sought after experiences that are unique to the fabric of Skagway. After immersing yourself in the history and culture of Skagway, we recommend a ride around town…via Alaska Street.
This path has great views, and an opportunity to stop at Skagway Spirits to grab a bottle of liquor distilled right here in town! Use the remainder of your time to explore all of the fun side streets and alleys or a unique waterfront that includes Pullen Creek.
Upon completion of your bike ride, we suggest you grab an amazing cupcake from Lucy’s Bakery, which just happens to be inside the bike shop! For those of you that still have time to hang out in town, a trip to the Red Onion or Klondike Brewery are always a good choice!
After all of this fun, you are guaranteed to have a great night’s sleep as you prepare for your adventure at the next port!