Nestled at the northern tip of the Inside Passage, visitors to the Skagway cruise port enjoy a gateway to its rich history and gorgeous landscapes. The town exudes an old-world charm born out of the Gold Rush era.
Some of downtown lies within the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. By taking a walking tour, you can enjoy more than 20 historic structures with exciting histories.
Skagway attracts over one million cruise ship passengers yearly, eager to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. If you’re one of them, we share where vessels dock, how to get around, and the best things to do in this Gold Rush town.
While cruise guests only have one day in Skagway, they can immerse themselves in the town’s storied past, making it a top destination on any Alaskan cruise itinerary.
History Of The Port Of Skagway
The history of Skagway’s port is closely tied to the gold boom era, the evolution of tourism, and the challenges posed by natural events.
The port is as important today as it was centuries ago. Since the Klondike Highway runs from Skagway into the Yukon, Canada, it’s an essential route for shipping commercial goods.
The port of Skagway is also part of the Alaska Marine Highway. It connects to other areas of Alaska and regions further south. Service is year-round to ports like Bellingham, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert. However, weather restricts service to the Aleutian Chain in winter.
Gold Rush Influence
The Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 was pivotal for Skagway. Thousands flocked to the area at that time, hoping to make it rich. Skagway served as a primary gateway for prospectors traveling to the goldfields in the Yukon.
During this period, the town rapidly expanded, with businesses catering to the needs of get-rich prospectors. Various establishments, including hotels and saloons, emerged almost overnight, with many still standing today.
Skagway Landslides
In recent years, Skagway has been plagued with landslides, some of which have affected the docks. Several slides in 2022 caused the closure of the Railroad Dock, which can accommodate up to two vessels.
While the mountain has been reinforced with wire to catch falling rock and the dock reopened, the slope remains unstable.
Larger vessels such as the Quantum of the Seas, Discovery Princess, and Celebrity Edge often dock at the back of Railroad Dock. We had to walk through shipping containers to catch a shuttle to the front of the dock.
Vessels docked at the front or closest to land are tendered ashore. While tender trips are short, rough waters can make the process unsettling.
Skagway Cruise Port Facilities
The Skagway port lacks the modern facilities seen in other ports. There is no large building, welcome center, or shops at the dock. However, it’s a short walk to the main shopping area.
Docking And Berthing
The port of Skagway can accommodate four large cruise ships at three docks, Ore, Broadway, and Railroad Docks, from west to east.
You can check where your ship docks in Skagway on the Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska schedules. Berth codes are as follows:
- Ore Dock – ORE
- Broadway Dock – BRD
- Railroad Dock back or aft – RRA
- Railroad Dock front or forward – RRF
The docking area is specifically designed for easy access, allowing vessels to berth close to the downtown area.
Access To The Railroad
One of the major attractions near the port is the historic White Pass Scenic Railway. The tracks run to each dock, providing cruise guests with effortless access to the train.
We’ve taken the train journey, which offers an insight into the region’s rich history while providing stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.
A train is assigned to each ship and makes two runs a day. During peak season, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway may make three runs if a mega-ship docks and requires more than two runs.
When purchasing a ticket through the cruise line, guests board next to their ship. All other train passengers embark at the train station, 10 minutes away.
Is There Wi-Fi At The Port?
There is no complimentary Wi-Fi at the cruise terminal. For service outside the cruise ship’s internet package, we prefer to purchase an Airalo eSIM.
Their eSIMs are inexpensive, easy to set up and require no actual SIM card.
Transportation
Getting around Skagway is straightforward, with an easy 10-minute walk to town. You can rent a car, take a bus tour, or take advantage of the proximity to nearby ferry services. Each choice offers unique benefits for exploring beyond downtown.
Skagway SMART Bus
The Skagway Municipal and Regional Transit operates an inexpensive bus service. When cruise ships are in port, a dock-to-downtown bus loop runs every 15 minutes. The cost is minimal at USD 5 for an all-day pass or USD 3 one-way.
Additionally, their on-demand service allows guests to travel further afield. By calling for pickup, there’s a USD 5 fee to reach the Gold Rush Cemetery or a USD 15 fee to travel to Dyea.
Proximity To The Helipad
Temsco Helicopters has a helipad next to the Skagway Ore Terminal for those who prefer flightseeing. Temsco was the first to offer helicopter glacial tours in Alaska and is the only operator in Skagway.
They offer dog sledding excursions at the dog camp on Denver Glacier. Alternatively, visit Chilkat, Ferebee, or Meade Glacier for flightseeing excursions, including an icefield landing. Both tours are two hours.
Rental Cars
For those who prefer more control over their travel itinerary, renting a car is a fantastic option. Several rental agencies are available within Skagway, allowing exploration at your own pace. Here are the options for vehicle rentals:
- DIY Jeep Tours is a popular choice on 2nd and State Street. Jeeps seat up to five and provide lots of space for bags.
- Avis has several rental vehicles at 2020 2nd Ave.
- Affordable Car Rental (Skagwaycarrental.com) is at 648 Broadway.
- Klondike Electric Car Rentals (398 5th Ave). Renting one of their five electric cars allows you to do your part for the environment and save on gasoline fill-ups.
- Drive About Car Rental (202 9th Ave) offers the best options for large groups. Their vehicles can accommodate 7 to 15 passengers.
- Turo provides a local host rental. Browse the makes and models and pick a vehicle and price that suits you.
We’ve rented an electric car from Klondike Electric Cars and enjoyed a road trip to Emerald Lake in the Yukon. The route was beautiful and allowed us to experience contrasting climatic zones.
It should be noted that since the ride to the Yukon crosses into Canada, guests will require a passport on the day of travel.
Skagway – Haines Fast Ferry
The Skagway to Haines Fast Ferry is another efficient transportation option if you prefer to explore Haines. It takes the passenger-only ferry 45 minutes to reach its destination.
The ride is very scenic, and a naturalist will narrate the journey through Taiya Inlet. Guests may see whales, eagles, other marine life, and three picturesque waterfalls.
Skagway’s Gold Rush History
We’ve explored Skagway’s key aspects of this historical period, including major trails, transportation developments, and significant sites.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway revolutionized access to the Klondike region. Today, it’s the most popular activity in Skagway. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or want a leisurely tour with spectacular views, this one delivers.
Completed in 1900, this narrow-gauge railway connected Skagway with the interior of Alaska. It facilitated easier transport of goods and prospectors.
Riding the railway allowed us to relive the journey in its vintage railcars. The up-and-back route features wooden trestles, waterfalls, a tunnel, and views beyond imagination.
The Chilkoot Trail
The Chilkoot Trail was a primary pathway for miners traveling to the Klondike Gold Fields. It covered approximately 33 miles and was famous for its challenging and steep route.
While hiking the complete trail on a port day isn’t possible, I’ve enjoyed part of it on the Chilkoot Hike & Float tour.
Prospectors faced harsh weather and challenging conditions. Hiking a section of the route gave me an appreciation for what they endured. Many individuals had to carry a ton of supplies to make the trek.
Gold Rush Cemetery
Skagway’s Gold Rush Cemetery is a poignant reminder of the lives lost during the Gold Rush. Established in the late 1800s, this cemetery is the resting place for many who pursued wealth and faced hardship along the Chilkoot Trail.
We found the cemetery rustic, but exploring the historic graves and learning about the individuals who shaped Skagway’s history was fascinating.
The notable “Soapy” Smith is buried here, along with Frank Reid, who both died from injuries in a gunfight.
Head to the back of the cemetery and follow the path to Lower Reid Falls. While there’s a slight incline to reach the cascade, the view is worth the effort.
Moore Homestead
The Moore Homestead is a notable historical site representing family life during the Gold Rush. Established by the Moore family, it showcases the challenges and triumphs of settling in a rapidly changing town.
The homestead is the oldest structure in Skagway and dates to 1887. Today, we can visit the site to see the original building and the larger one, which has undergone several additions.
Shore Excursions And Tours
There are lots of activities near the cruise port, from family-friendly hiking trails to visiting the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
Nature And Wildlife Tours
The trails to Yakutania Point and Smuggler’s Cove make a great day out for families and the budget conscious. The routes were easy, and we completed them in an hour. If you’re seeking more challenging Skagway hikes, try the Dewey Lakes routes or the one to Denver Glacier.
Alternatively, the 3-hour Waterfalls & Wildlife Tour journeys through the Lynn Canal. This area is of incredible natural beauty, showcasing shipwrecks and the cascading waterfalls that define this region.
Opportunities for wildlife sightings are abundant and may include bald eagles, seals, and perhaps even whales.
Cultural And Historical Tours
Visit one of Skagway’s museums to delve into the region’s history. Choose from the Skagway Museum & Archives, Visitor Center Museum, or the Red Onion Saloon Brothel Museum.
Liarsville Gold Rush Camp and Alaska 360 Dredge Town offer gold panning and a way to relive the Gold Rush era.
Visiting Tutshi Sled Dogs on the Klondike Hwy offers an Iditarod insight experience. The annual race runs 1,000 miles in grueling conditions. At the kennel, meet Michelle Phillips herself, a veteran of the Iditarod.
Adventure And Recreation Tours
Beyond the White Pass railroad and road trip to Emerald Lake, other options exist for enjoying your day. Adventure and adrenaline rush tours include:
- Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Tour.
- Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition.
- Ocean Raft Wilderness Adventure.
- Glacier Point Wilderness Safari.
Arriving at Skagway’s port promises an engaging visit that caters to all interests, with activities ranging from scenic train rides to gold panning experiences.
