A popular Alaska cruise port, Skagway is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you love history, unique local culture, and spectacular scenery. During a cruise stop in Skagway, you can step back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush while also enjoying the incredible natural beauty Alaska is known for.

Skagway is the northernmost port in Alaska’s Inside Passage, located at the northern end of Lynn Canal. Once a bustling boomtown and the gateway to the Trail of ’98 and the Klondike gold fields, Skagway is much quieter today, with roughly 1,000 year-round residents. During the summer cruise season, however, the town comes alive as more than a million cruise passengers visit Skagway each year.

Long before the Gold Rush, the area was used by the Tlingit people as a hunting and fishing ground. In 1896, gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River, about 600 miles from Skagway. When news of the discovery spread, thousands of prospectors headed north, and Skagway quickly grew into a bustling frontier town with a population estimated at 8,000 to 10,000.

Many of Skagway’s historic buildings from this era still stand today, along with the town’s distinctive raised wooden sidewalks. On June 28, 1900, Skagway officially became the first incorporated city in Alaska, beating Juneau by just one day.

Skagway Cruise Port

Most cruise ships visiting Skagway, Alaska, dock at one of the town's waterfront cruise piers, including the Ore Dock, Railroad Dock, or Broadway Dock. The docks are conveniently located near downtown, making it easy for cruise passengers to begin exploring the historic town.

The Railroad Dock has experienced changes in recent years because of rockslide concerns. Depending on current conditions and your ship's docking location, access to the pier may be limited, so it's a good idea to check your cruise line's information before your visit.

What You Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port

One of the great things about Skagway cruise port is how convenient it is for cruise passengers. The downtown area is within easy walking distance of the cruise docks, making it simple to explore on your own.

There are also plenty of Skagway shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass & Yukon Route. If you haven't booked an excursion before your cruise, you'll find tour operators and vendors near the port offering options once you arrive.

Currency in Skagway

Although Skagway is just a short distance from Canada, it is located in Alaska, USA. The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Most businesses in Skagway accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards, so you shouldn't have any trouble making purchases during your visit.

Language in Skagway

English is the primary language spoken in Skagway. However, you may hear some uniquely Alaskan expressions during your visit.

A few you might encounter include:

Skagway Time Zone

Skagway is in the Alaska Time Zone. During Alaska's cruise season, the area observes Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT), which is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind Eastern Time.

Keep this in mind when booking excursions or making plans for your day in port. Your cruise ship will also provide the official onboard time, which is the time you should follow when returning to the ship.

Skagway Weather

During Alaska's cruise season, temperatures in Skagway can range from the 40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. While Skagway generally has a drier climate than some of the other Southeast Alaska ports, don't assume you'll always have sunshine.

I've experienced some beautiful weather in Skagway—and I've also experienced one of the wettest days I've ever had in Alaska. It was POURING!

Skagway can also be surprisingly windy because of its location at the end of Lynn Canal and the surrounding mountain valley. Even on a relatively mild day, the wind can make it feel considerably cooler.

My Alaska cruise packing tip: Layers are your best friend. Mornings can start out chilly, while temperatures may warm up considerably later in the day. A waterproof jacket is also a smart addition, especially if you're planning to spend the day exploring outdoors.

If you're wondering what to wear on an Alaska cruise, I recommend planning for changing weather rather than packing one heavy coat. Being able to add or remove layers throughout the day will make exploring Skagway much more comfortable.

Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise, dressing in layers is always a good idea. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day.

Getting Around Skagway

One of the easiest things about visiting Skagway on a cruise is how walkable the town is. The cruise docks are just a short walk from downtown, and the terrain is generally flat, making it easy to explore Skagway on foot.

Once you leave the ship, you can stroll along the waterfront and quickly reach the historic downtown area, where you'll find shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and plenty of opportunities to experience Skagway's Gold Rush history.

One thing to watch for is Skagway's elevated wooden sidewalks. They're part of the town's historic character, but the uneven boards can be an easy place to trip if you're not paying attention. Take your time, especially if you're wearing sandals or other shoes that don't provide much support.

Overall, Skagway is one of the easiest Alaska cruise ports to explore on foot, and you can see quite a bit without needing a car, taxi, or other transportation.

Skagway SMART Bus

If you don't want to walk from the cruise port into downtown, the Skagway Municipal and Regional Transit (SMART)operates a shuttle service during cruise season.

The “Dock to Downtown” loop connects the cruise docks with downtown Skagway and runs approximately every 15 minutes during the cruise season.

For those who plan to use the bus several times, an all-day SMART pass is available for $5 per person, while a one-way ride costs $3 per person.

The SMART bus can be a convenient option if you're traveling with someone who has difficulty walking or simply want to save your steps for exploring downtown and your excursions.

Car Rentals

There aren't many car rental options in Skagway, so if you're considering renting a car during your cruise stop, I recommend making arrangements well in advance. Rental cars can be limited during the busy Alaska cruise season.

One interesting option is DIY Jeep Tours, which combines a rental vehicle with a self-guided tour. The rental includes an audio guide that provides information along the route, pointing out historic sites, scenic viewpoints, and other interesting places as you make your way toward the Yukon.

You can also check Expedia or Avis for rental car availability in Skagway. Be sure to reserve as early as possible, particularly if you're visiting during peak cruise season.

Driving from Skagway to the Yukon

When we visited Skagway a few years ago, we rented a car for the day and drove along the Klondike Highway toward the Yukon. It was a wonderful way to see more of the spectacular scenery beyond the town.

Getting out of Skagway is relatively straightforward because there is essentially one main road leading in and out of town. Along the way, we made several stops to enjoy the scenery and stretch our legs. The drive itself was easy, although we encountered some construction that slowed us down.

If you plan to drive into Canada, don't forget your passport. You'll need the appropriate travel documents to cross the U.S.-Canada border, so check the current entry requirements before your cruise.

And perhaps most importantly, keep an eye on the clock! When you're exploring Skagway by rental car, remember that you have a ship to catch. Give yourself plenty of time to return the car and get back to the cruise port before the ship's all-aboard time.

Driving the Klondike Highway can be a fantastic way to experience the mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenery surrounding Skagway—but on a cruise day, leave yourself plenty of extra time rather than trying to squeeze in one more stop.

White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

One of the most popular things to do in Skagway on an Alaska cruise is riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. If this is your first time visiting Skagway, this historic train ride is a shore excursion worth considering.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway opened on August 1, 1900, during the Klondike Gold Rush. The narrow-gauge railroad was built to connect the port of Skagway with Whitehorse, the capital of Canada's Yukon Territory. Today, the railway remains an isolated system with no direct connection to any other railroad.

The engineering behind the railroad is just as impressive as the scenery. The route climbs nearly 3,000 feet in elevation over approximately 20 miles, crossing rugged mountain terrain and navigating the challenging conditions faced by the engineers who built it.

The White Pass & Yukon Route has been recognized as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, an honor shared by famous engineering achievements such as the Panama Canal, Eiffel Tower, and Statue of Liberty.

White Pass Summit Train Ride

The train follows the historic White Pass Summit route, the same general route traveled by gold seekers heading toward the Klondike gold fields in 1898.

As the train climbs through the mountains, you'll have spectacular views of glaciers, waterfalls, rugged mountains, and dramatic Alaskan scenery. You can also spot remnants of the historic Klondike Trail carved into the landscape.

The excursion typically lasts about 2½ to 2¾ hours and travels approximately 40 miles round trip, making it a convenient option for cruise passengers with a limited amount of time in Skagway.

You do not need a passport for the standard White Pass Summit excursion that remains in the United States. However, I recommend bringing your passport with you whenever you're exploring near the U.S.-Canada border, particularly if your excursion includes crossing into Canada.

And don't forget your camera! The views along the railway are spectacular, and you'll want to have it handy as the train winds its way through the mountains.

If this is your first Alaska cruise, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is definitely a Skagway shore excursion to put on your list. It combines Alaska's Gold Rush history with some truly incredible scenery—and it's an experience you'll remember long after your cruise is over.

Planning your first Alaska cruise? Check out my Alaska cruise guide for more tips and things to know before you go.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

If you're interested in the history of Skagway, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a great place to begin—and it's just a short walk from the cruise docks.

Authorized in 1976, the park preserves and interprets the history of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897–98, when thousands of prospectors traveled north in search of gold. The park is made up of four areas: Skagway's historic business district, the historic Chilkoot and White Pass trails, and a visitor center in Seattle, Washington.

Skagway Visitor Center

The Skagway visitor center is housed in a beautifully preserved 1898 railroad depot and features exhibits that help bring the Gold Rush era to life. It's a great first stop if you want to understand the history behind the buildings, streets, and trails you'll see while exploring Skagway.

The park also offers a variety of free activities, including film screenings, ranger presentations, and guided walking tours. These programs are a fun way to learn more about what life was like in Skagway during the Gold Rush.

Be sure to take a picture of he exterior of the Skagway Visitor’s Center. Located in the historic Arctic Brotherhood Hallm, this is a tourist destination all on its own.The outside of this building is intricately decorated with over 8,800 pieces of driftwood. If you step across the street, you can see the letters “AB” (Arctic Brotherhood) and “1899” above the door. This unique building is a must-see!

Historic Buildings and Museums

If you enjoy museums and historic buildings, there are several other places around town where you can continue exploring Skagway's past.

The J. Bernard Moore House, for example, offers a glimpse into life in an Alaska Gold Rush town. Originally built by Skagway founder William Moore, the home has been restored to its 1904 appearance and furnished with many original family possessions.

You can also visit other historic homes and museums throughout downtown Skagway. Because the historic district is so compact and walkable, it's easy to combine several of these stops during your cruise day.

Tip: If you're visiting Skagway for the first time, consider starting at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park visitor center. It provides helpful context for the Gold Rush history you'll see throughout town and makes exploring the historic district even more interesting.

Visit the Red Onion Saloon

A visit to Skagway isn't complete without stopping at the historic Red Onion Saloon. Located on the corner of 2nd Avenue and Broadway, this colorful piece of Skagway's Gold Rush history is easy to find as you explore downtown.

The Red Onion Saloon dates back to 1897, when Skagway was booming with prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush. The building originally operated as one of the town's most prominent brothels, offering a fascinating—and sometimes entertaining—look at life in Skagway during the Gold Rush era.

Today, the Red Onion Saloon is a popular stop for both cruise passengers and locals. While the town has certainly changed since the Gold Rush days, the saloon has preserved much of its historic character and colorful atmosphere.

Stop in to enjoy a drink, grab something to eat, and soak up a little of Skagway's Wild West history. It's an easy addition to a day of exploring because it's right in the heart of the historic downtown district.

Tip: If you're looking for a fun and historic stop during your Skagway cruise port day, add the Red Onion Saloon to your walking itinerary. It's a great way to experience a different side of Skagway's Gold Rush past.

Hiking in Skagway

If you enjoy hiking, Skagway offers plenty of trails ranging from relatively easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures. With mountains, forests, lakes, and spectacular scenery surrounding the town, hiking is a wonderful way to experience a different side of Alaska during your cruise stop.

Chilkoot Trail

For experienced hikers, the Chilkoot Trail is one of the most historic and challenging adventures in the Skagway area. Often called the “world's longest outdoor museum,” the trail follows the historic route taken by Gold Rush stampeders traveling toward the Yukon goldfields.

The full trail stretches approximately 33 miles from Dyea, Alaska, to Bennett Lake in British Columbia, Canada, with about 17 miles in the United States and 16 miles in Canada.

This is not a casual cruise-port hike. The Chilkoot Trail is a serious backcountry adventure that requires preparation, appropriate equipment, and enough time to complete the route. For those who are prepared for the challenge, however, it offers an incredible combination of Gold Rush history, wilderness, and spectacular scenery.

If you're considering hiking the Chilkoot Trail, stop by the Chilkoot Trail Center on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues for information and current trail conditions. The center typically operates during the main hiking season.

Lower Dewey Lake Trail

If you're looking for something more manageable during a Skagway cruise stop, consider the hike to Lower Dewey Lake.

The trailhead is less than a mile from downtown Skagway, making it convenient for cruise passengers who want to get out into nature without traveling far from the port. The hike around the lake is approximately 3.6 miles.

The trail begins with a fairly steep uphill climb, but once you reach the lake, the route levels out and becomes a more leisurely loop. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you make your way through the forest and around the lake.

Plan on spending approximately 2 to 3½ hours on the Lower Dewey Lake hike, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Tip: Always check current trail conditions and allow plenty of time to return to the ship. Remember, a cruise ship won't wait if you're late getting back to the pier!

Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

Located just outside downtown Skagway, the historic cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into life—and death—during the Klondike Gold Rush. It’s about a 4-mile round-trip walk from downtown, but you can also take the local SMART bus, which drops you off roughly a half-mile from the cemetery.

Take some time to wander through the cemetery and read the names and stories of the people buried here. A list of those interred provides their ages and details about how they died, offering a sobering look at just how difficult life could be in Skagway during the Gold Rush. Some causes of death are surprisingly common, while others are a reminder of the dangers faced by those who came north hoping to strike it rich.

While you’re here, don’t miss Lower Reid Falls, located just beyond the cemetery. The short walk to the waterfall makes it easy to combine these two historic and scenic Skagway attractions in one stop.

This can be a good option for cruise passengers who want to enjoy some of Skagway's natural beauty without committing to a longer hike. The route is considerably easier than trails such as Chilkoot or Lower Dewey Lake, although trail conditions can vary, so anyone with mobility concerns should check the current conditions before setting out.

The waterfall itself is a beautiful reward for the short walk and is a great place to take a few photos while exploring the area.

Float the Skagway River

Looking for a way to experience Alaska's scenery and wildlife beyond the streets of downtown Skagway?

A Skagway River Float Trip is s a wonderful option. Traverse the wild side of Yukon and British Columbia with a guide to lead the way on this group tour setting off from the Skagway Cruise Terminal. See Carcross Desert, Emerald Lake, the Welcome to Alaska sign, and Tormented Valley, along with scenic glacier and mountain views. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot the area’s ample wildlife.

Go Ocean Rafting

If you're looking for an adventurous Skagway shore excursion, head out onto the water for an ocean rafting adventure. Skagway is located at the northern end of Lynn Canal, a spectacular fjord surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, rocky shorelines, and abundant wildlife.

A RIB adventure is an exciting way to experience the coastal wilderness of Southeast Alaska from the water. You'll suit up in waterproof gear, including a waterproof suit, goggles, and gloves, before heading out along the shoreline in a rigid inflatable boat.

As you cruise through the fjord, keep your camera ready for waterfalls, secluded coves, rugged mountains, and Alaska's wildlife. Depending on the season and conditions, you may spot bald eagles, seals, sea lions, porpoises, or whales.

One of my favorite parts of an excursion like this is when the captain cuts the engine and you simply drift in the quiet. With the dramatic Alaskan landscape surrounding you, it's a wonderful reminder of just how wild and peaceful this part of the world can be.

If you're looking for something more exciting than a traditional sightseeing tour, this Skagway ocean rafting excursionis a fun way to get out on the water and see Alaska from a completely different perspective.

Learn more about the RIB adventure and check the current tour details before your cruise.

Horseback Riding in Skagway

If you're looking for a memorable Skagway shore excursion, consider exploring the Alaskan wilderness on horseback. I've gone horseback riding in many locations across the United States, and my ride in Skagway was probably one of the most beautiful I've experienced.

The horses were well cared for, and the ride took us through peaceful forests and open meadows just outside of Skagway. There's something special about experiencing Alaska this way—you can slow down, take in the scenery, and enjoy the quiet of the wilderness.

For animal lovers and anyone who wants to get away from the busy cruise port for a few hours, horseback riding in Skagway is a wonderful way to experience the landscape from a different perspective.

Free Things to Do in Skagway

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy your day in Skagway. In fact, some of the best things to do in this historic cruise port are completely free.

Walk Through Historic Downtown Skagway

One of the easiest ways to experience Skagway is simply to walk down its historic Gold Rush-era main street. The downtown area is filled with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, museums, and plenty of opportunities to browse for unique Alaska souvenirs.

The downtown boardwalk is only about a 10-minute walk from the cruise docks, making it an easy option if you don't want to book an excursion.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering the wooden sidewalks, browsing jewelry and Alaska-made gifts, and soaking up the atmosphere of this former Gold Rush boomtown.

Explore Corrington's Museum

If you enjoy history, art, and unusual museums, make time for Corrington's. The museum is tucked inside the back of this downtown gift shop and features Native Alaskan artwork and artifacts.

One of the highlights is the collection of scrimshaw, a traditional form of decorative carving found on materials such as ivory and bone. The displays offer an interesting look at Alaska's history and artistic traditions.

Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes to explore the museum. When you're finished, you can browse the shop for a unique Alaska souvenir while supporting local and Native artisans.

See the Historic Snowplow

As you make your way along Broadway Street, keep an eye out for the enormous rotary snowplow that was once used by the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

Built in 1898, the snowplow was used to clear snow from the railroad tracks for decades before being retired in 1964. It was restored in 1995 and is now on display for visitors.

It's hard to miss—the massive piece of railroad history sits near the cruise port and railroad tracks. It's also a fun photo opportunity and an easy stop to add to your free Skagway walking tour.

Tip: If you're spending the day exploring Skagway on your own, you can combine these stops into an easy walking itinerary without booking an excursion. Just remember to keep an eye on the time and allow plenty of time to get back to your ship before all-aboard.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skagway

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway?

The Alaska cruise season is generally the best time to visit Skagway, with most cruise ships arriving between May and September. Skagway typically has relatively mild weather compared with some other Southeast Alaska ports.

If you want the widest selection of shops, tours, and shore excursions, July and August are popular months to visit. These months generally offer some of the drier weather as well, although Alaska weather can be unpredictable at any time of year.

No matter when you visit, bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Skagway weather can change quickly!

How far is downtown Skagway from the cruise port?

Downtown Skagway is within easy walking distance of the cruise docks. The exact distance depends on where your ship is docked, but the walk can range from approximately ½ to ¾ of a mile.

The relatively flat terrain makes Skagway one of the easier Alaska cruise ports to explore on foot. If you'd rather not walk, the local SMART shuttle bus provides another option for getting between the docks and downtown.

Tip: Check your ship's docking location before heading into town. The farther cruise docks can add some extra walking time, so allow plenty of time if you have an excursion or reservation scheduled.Text

Final Thoughts

Skagway is one of those Alaska cruise ports that makes it easy to step back in time. From its Gold Rush-era buildings and historic museums to scenic train rides, outdoor adventures, and incredible mountain scenery, there is plenty to see and do during your visit.

Whether you spend your day exploring a historic museum, trying your hand at gold panning, riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, hiking through the wilderness, or simply wandering the charming streets of downtown, Skagway offers something for just about every type of traveler.

The best part? You don't have to book an expensive excursion to enjoy it. Some of my favorite things to do in Skagway are simply walking through the historic downtown area, taking in the scenery, and learning about the town's fascinating Gold Rush past.

Whatever you choose to do, Skagway is a port you'll likely remember long after your Alaska cruise is over. Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and pack rain gear. Alaska weather can change quickly, and it's always better to be prepared!

Tip: A good packing list for Alaska is essential.  Packing for Alaska…What To Bring

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