Welcome to Skagway, Alaska! Nestled at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage, this historic town is a must-see destination for travelers to the Last Frontier. Filled with dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and a vibrant downtown, Skagway invites you to sit back and absorb the majesty of remote Alaska.
From Village to Gold Town
Skagway has been home to the Tlingit people for centuries. The proximity of the area to rich fishing grounds shaped the Tlingit culture. Known as “Skaqua” or “white caps on the water”, the protected coves along Skagway’s coast were the preferred settlements for Skagway’s earliest inhabitants. Skagway was also the head of the Chilkoot trail, an ancient trading route that led into the interior Yukon. It was this route that would lead to Skagway’s boomtown history during the Alaskan Gold Rush.
In 1896, gold was found in the Klondike region of the Yukon. The Chilkoot trail provided prospectors with the easiest access to the remote gold fields, and Skagway quickly became a boomtown. In just a few years, the population reached over 30,000, with businesses flourishing as a key supply chain to the Yukon.
By 1898, a railroad was constructed linking Skagway with Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, and by 1900, Skagway was incorporated as the first city in the American Alaskan Territory. For decades, Skagway remained as a major commercial player in the Alaskan economy. It was a staging point for troops throughout World War 2, and a key port for oil for the Canol pipeline in the 1940s.
Today, you can still see remnants of this colorful history scattered across town. The Tlingit people have made a resurgence in recent years, and are working to preserve their culture and history. The Tlingit people are active in the community and celebrate their culture through traditional dances, ceremonies, and festivals.
Downtown buildings still possess their gold rush charm, and forgotten military pillboxes still dot the landscape. While Skagway today is focused more on tourism and outdoor recreation, visitors cannot easily forget the history and people who made this town a destination on the map.
Why You Should Visit
Skagway offers an adventure for every traveler. The town is surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers and pristine forests, making it the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just taking in the views, Skagway is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The town has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and museums, as well as guided tours that highlight the history and culture of the area. Rental cars, souvenir shops, and guided tours are all easily accessible from the downtown. Additionally, the town serves as a starting point for many cruises and adventure tours to nearby glaciers and fjords. Overall, Skagway offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a must-see destination for travelers visiting Alaska.
What to See and Do in Skagway
Don’t skip out on days when visiting Skagway, as you can easily fill a week exploring this vibrant area. The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad is a must-see attraction. This narrow-gauge railway takes you on a scenic journey through the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the history of the gold rush. The train ride is about 3 hours round trip and it is a great way to see the beauty of Skagway.
Another must-stop attraction is the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This park features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the gold rush, as well as a variety of hiking trails in Skagway that take you to some of the most iconic locations from that era.
If you're looking for a more adventurous activity, consider a guided tour of the nearby glaciers. Skagway is home to several glaciers, including the Mendenhall Glacier, which is located just a short boat ride away. These tours offer a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature up close and explore the ice formations that are only found in the Arctic. During certain months in the summer, whales are common sights within the Inside Passage.
For those who want to explore the area at their own pace, there are also a number of rental companies that offer ATVs, motorcycles, and other off-road vehicles. This is a great way to get off the beaten path and see some of the more remote areas of Skagway.
The downtown area offers a variety of options for dining and shopping. The Red Onion Saloon and Skagway Fish Company combine historic architecture with local delicacy, making them both excellent selections for your lunch or dinner plans. Additionally, there are also a number of smaller cafes and delis that offer sandwiches, soups and salads for a quick snack before heading out on the road.
How to Travel to Skagway
Unlike many towns in Southeast Alaska, Skagway is connected to an extensive road system. When it comes to leaving Skagway, the main road out of town is the Klondike Highway, which connects Skagway to the rest of Alaska. The Klondike Highway heads north to Whitehorse, the capital of the Canadian territory of Yukon, and continues on to Dawson City, the center of the Klondike Gold Rush, where visitors can see the gold rush history and the artifacts. From there, the road continues on to Fairbanks, the largest city in Interior Alaska.
If traveling north to Skagway, visitors can travel the infamous ALCAN highway, otherwise known as the “Alaska-Canada Highway”, from the lower 48 and turn west at Carcross Cutoff. This route would involve numerous days of travel, but is a frequent route for adventurers making the full Alaskan trek.
If you’re looking for a faster route, the Alaska Marine Highway offers ferry services throughout the Interior Passage. After flying into Juneau, visitors can hop on a ferry to Skagway. In the summer, smaller family-run ferry operations also offer routes between Haines, Skagway, and Juneau.
Small hopper flights are also available from Juneau or visitors can charter a flight from other destinations around southeast and southcentral Alaska.
Pack Your Bags for an Alaskan Adventure of a Lifetime
Skagway is a destination that guarantees adventure, beauty, and remarkable memories. From its rich history, stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique attractions, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this Alaskan gem.
Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, Skagway is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags and head to Skagway, Alaska for an unforgettable experience!
