Skagway Port Guide: 15 Must-Do Excursions for Alaska Cruisers

Skagway, known for its rich Gold Rush history and stunning natural landscapes, is a popular port of call on many Alaska cruise itineraries. Despite its small size, this historic town offers cruise passengers a variety of exciting activities during their day stop. Here are the top 15 things to do in Skagway that will make your port visit memorable.

15 Best Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise (2025)

Having visited Alaska on six different cruises with various cruise lines, we’ve had the chance to experience quite a bit of what this port has to offer cruise passengers. But there’s always more to see and do, that’s why we keep returning year after year.

Skagway might be a little town, but with its exciting history and beautiful scenery, it sure seems larger than life! So, whether you’re visiting Alaska for the first time or are returning for another trip, these are some of the must-do activities during your cruise visit to Skagway.

1. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad is the number-one Alaskan cruise excursion in Skagway. This narrow gauge railway, built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, ascends nearly 3,000 feet along its 20-mile path from Skagway to the White Pass Summit. Relax in a vintage rail car as you retrace the path of ambitious prospectors on the Trail of ’98, with guided narration throughout the journey (but it’s the same in both directions).

Among some of the sights you will see are a cantilevered steel bridge built in 1901; Dead Horse Gulch, a very dangerous portion of the trail where over 3,000 horses lost their footing and were trampled to death; Inspiration Point with a great view of the Chilkat Range; Bridal Veil Falls; and Rocky Point, which is a great photo opportunity of Skagway with the cruise ships in the background.

This historic train ride can be booked through most major cruise lines. Find it as a round-trip journey or as a one-way trip in combination with other activities such as the Klondike Gold Fields, a dog musher’s camp, a salmon bake, or a bike tour.

Tour Duration: 3.5-8 hours
Price Range: $159-375 per person
Best For: History buffs and scenic photography enthusiasts
Pro Tip: If you take the train up to the Summit, sit on the left side. If you take the train down from the Summit, sit on the right side as most major landmarks are on the same side.

Sample Tour: White Pass Summit Rail & Bus

2. Hike the Historic Chilkoot Trail

Experience a portion of the famous Chilkoot Trail, the other major route traveled by prospectors hoping to strike it rich in the Yukon Gold Fields. Several hiking excursions cover about 2 miles of this trail, offering moderate difficulty with spectacular views. At the end of your one-way hike, relax with a peaceful raft float down the Taiya River. Some tours also combine a ride to the White Pass Summit.

Tour Duration: 3-6 hours
Price Range: $159-300 per person
Best For: Active travelers who enjoy nature and history

Sample Tour: Scenic Hike and Float

3. Explore Historic Downtown Skagway

Downtown Skagway’s historic district is easily walkable for those who want to embark on a self-guided tour. With a handy map of notable historic sights, you can set off on this estimated 1-mile exploration to see landmarks including the Red Onion Saloon, The Arctic Brotherhood Hall, and the Moore Cabin. For those who prefer guided tours, the authentic Skagway streetcar provides a 90-minute tour to “all points of interest”.

Tour Duration: 1-2 hours (self-guided), 90 minutes (streetcar tour)
Price Range: Free (self-guided), $49-69 per person (streetcar tour)
Best For: History enthusiasts and those wanting an overview of the town

Tour Info: Skagway Street Car Tour

4. Experience Dog Sledding

Meet an authentic Iditarod musher and their dog sledding team for a unique Alaskan experience. Learn about modern-day dog sled racing, interact with the athletes (both human and canine), and take a thrilling ride on a wheeled summer sled. Some tours also combine this activity with a helicopter glacier tour for a truly unforgettable adventure or with other activities like gold panning and s’mores.

Tour Duration: 2-4.5 hours
Price Range: $165-750 per person (depending on if combined with helicopter tour)
Best For: Animal lovers and adventure seekers of all ages

Sample Tour: Yukon Sled Dogs and Musher Experience

5. Kayak or Canoe on Chilkoot Lake

Escape the crowds of Skagway for a breathtaking wilderness adventure on the pristine Chilkoot Lake. Begin with a scenic fast ferry ride to Haines, followed by a drive along the wildlife-rich Chilkoot River corridor where you might spot brown bears, eagles, and spawning salmon in season. Once at the lake, choose between stable sea kayaks or canoes to explore the crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls. Your experienced guide will share insights about the area while you paddle along the shoreline, with time to relax and capture photos of this pristine wilderness setting.

Tour Duration: 6-7 hours
Price Range: $209-369 per person
Best For: Nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers of all skill levels

Sample Tour: Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Tour

6. Visit the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

Located just outside of town, the Gold Rush Cemetery is the final resting place for many Gold Rush era pioneers and notorious characters, including the legendary conman and gangster “Soapy” Smith. A short trail beyond the cemetery leads to the beautiful Lower Reid Falls, making this a perfect free activity for those wanting to explore on their own.

Tour Duration: 1-2 hours (self-guided)
Price Range: Free
Best For: History buffs and those seeking a peaceful nature walk

7. Zip Through the Wilderness with Grizzly Falls Ziplining

Soar along 11 ziplines directly above glacially fed waterfalls on the Grizzly Falls Zipline Expedition. Reach lengths of 750 feet and speeds of 45 miles per hour as you zip through the pristine Alaskan rainforest. Professional guides ensure safety while sharing information about the local ecosystem throughout your adventure.

Tour Duration: 3.5-4 hours
Price Range: $199-269 per person
Best For: Thrill-seekers (weight and age restrictions apply)

Sample Tour: Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition

8. Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska from above with a helicopter tour over glaciers, mountains, and fjords. Most tours include a landing on a glacier where you can step out onto the ice and take in the magnificent surroundings. Some tours are also combined with dog sledding on the glacier. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers unparalleled views and photo opportunities.

Tour Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours
Price Range: $459-750 per person (depending if combined with dog sledding on the glacier)
Best For: Photography enthusiasts and bucket-list experience seekers

Sample Tour: Alaska Glacier Discovery

9. Enjoy a Jeep Adventure Through the Yukon Territory

Discover the rugged Yukon Territory by Jeep on this off-roading adventure. Drive your own 4×4 vehicle along the scenic Klondike Highway, crossing the Canadian border (passport required) to explore historic sites and breathtaking viewpoints. Many tours include a stop at the Yukon Suspension Bridge, where you can walk 65 feet above raging rapids. These Jeep adventures may be self-guided or as part of an organized tour group.

Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Price Range: $319-589 per person
Best For: Independent explorers and driving enthusiasts

Sample Tour: Self-Guided Jeep Tour to the Yukon

10. Experience the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp Show

Step back in time at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp, a recreated 1898 gold rush trail camp named after the journalists who sent tall tales about the Klondike Gold Rush from this location. This entertaining and educational experience begins with a comical performance that brings Gold Rush characters to life. After the show, try your luck at gold panning (with a guaranteed find!), explore the camp’s historical exhibits, and enjoy an all-you-can-eat salmon bake with all the fixings. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment, history, and Alaskan cuisine.

Tour Duration: 2-3 hours
Price Range: $115-159 per person
Best For: Families and history enthusiasts looking for entertainment and a taste of Alaskan culture

Sample Tour: Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp

11. Journey to the Bald Eagle Preserve in Haines

Take a fast ferry to Haines (approximately 45 minutes) to visit the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which boasts the largest population of bald eagles in the world. Whether by riverboat or raft, you’ll be transported through the channels of the Chilkat River into the heart of the eagles’ habitat. This calm water excursion requires no experience and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

This can be booked as part of an organized excursion or you could choose to take the ferry over to Haines on your own. Note: the Preserve is approximately a 30-45-minute drive after taking the ferry.

Tour Duration: 6-7 hours (including ferry transfer)
Price Range: $299-359 per person
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers

Sample Tour: Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Skagway

12. Visit the Skagway Brewing Company

Experience Alaska’s craft beer culture at this historic brewery established in 1897 during the Gold Rush. Take a tour of the brewing facilities to learn about their brewing process, which uses pure Alaskan water. Then enjoy a tasting flight of their signature beers, including the famous Spruce Tip Blonde Ale. The brewery also serves excellent food featuring locally-sourced ingredients, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel during your port day.

Tour Duration: 1 hour
Price Range: $25 per person
Best For: Craft beer enthusiasts and foodies looking for authentic Alaskan flavors

Tour Info: Skagway Brewing Company

13. Take the “Ghosts & Goodtime Girls” Walking Tour

If you’re open to something a little more risqué, step back in time with one of the madams of the Red Onion Saloon as she guides you on a walking tour of Skagway’s historic streets and back alleys. Hear the untold stories of the ladies of the Klondike Gold Rush and learn about the town’s rich but sordid history. Your tour concludes at the saloon’s restored brothel museum for additional exploration.

Even if you don’t take this tour, you should at least visit the saloon to see some of the original relics of this preserved building. Maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the resident ghost!

Tour Duration: 2 hours
Price Range: $49-65 per person
Best For: Adults interested in the colorful side of Gold Rush history

Tour Info: Red Onion Saloon

14. Visit Alaska 360’s Dredge Town

At Alaska 360’s Dredge Town, you will gain a bit of insight into the history of the Klondike Gold Rush but with access to modern-day Alaskan experiences all in one place. After learning about the Gold Rush and dog sledding, you can take a tour of an authentic gold dredge, learn to pan for gold, and then put your skills to practice. If that’s not enough, meet and interact with an Iditarod musher and his dog sledding team.

Afterwards, warm up with an Alaskan barbecue or visit the Craft Soda Factory where you can bottle your own brew.

Tour Duration: 3-4.5 hours
Price Range: $129-200 per person
Best For: Families and those seeking unique Alaskan experiences

Tour Info: Alaska 360

15. Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling Adventure

Challenge yourself on the stunning granite walls of Alaska with this thrilling outdoor adventure. After a scenic drive up the White Pass and a short hike through temperate rainforest, you’ll reach spectacular rock faces carved by retreating glaciers. Your experienced guide will select from different climbing routes to match your ability level, ensuring both beginners and experienced climbers enjoy the experience. Once you’ve conquered the climb, experience the exhilaration of rappelling 70 feet down the rock face.

This tour may be combined with a zipline course as well.

Tour Duration: 3-4.5 hours
Price Range: $129-205 per person
Best For: Adventure seekers of all skill levels (minimum age requirements apply)

Sample Tour: Klondike Rock Climbing, Rappelling, and Ziplining

Sample Activities for Your Skagway Port Day

Adventure Seeker

• White Pass Railway to Summit + Bicycle Down
• Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing
• Grizzly Falls Ziplining
• Rock Climbing and Rappelling Adventure

Family-Friendly

• Streetcar Tour of Skagway
• Liarsville Gold Rush Camp
• Dog Sledding

Budget-Conscious

• Self-guided Downtown Skagway Walking Tour
• Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls
• Red Onion Saloon Historic Tour

Skagway Frequently Asked Questions

How long do cruise ships typically stay in Skagway?

Most cruise ships dock in Skagway for 8-12 hours, giving passengers enough time for one major excursion or several smaller activities. Most cruisers will utilize free time to explore on their own before or after excursions.

Is Skagway walkable from the cruise port?

Yes, downtown Skagway is very walkable from the cruise docks. Most attractions in the historic district are within a 10-15 minute walk from the ship.

What should I wear in Skagway?

Layer clothing as weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat are recommended. Even in summer, temperatures typically range from 50-65°F.

What’s the best time of year to visit Skagway?

May through September is cruise season in Skagway. July and August offer slightly warmer temperatures, while May and September provide fewer crowds.

Are tours available for cruise passengers with mobility issues?

Yes, several excursions are accessible to those with limited mobility. The White Pass Railway, the Skagway Streetcar Tour, and the Red Onion Saloon tour are suitable options. Always contact tour operators in advance to discuss specific needs.

Do I need a passport for Skagway excursions?

You only need a passport for excursions that cross into Canada, such as the Yukon Territory tours. Many excellent activities remain available for those without passports.

Is there a shuttle service in Skagway?

Yes, Skagway provides a SMART shuttle service with white and blue buses that can take you from the ship to anywhere in the city center and even to attractions like the Gold Fields. Look for the blue and white poles around town. Tickets cost $5 for the Downtown shuttle upwards to $20 for packages. Cruise lines also provide complimentary shuttle service down the pier only.

Comments

Do you agree with our list of all the things to do in Skagway, Alaska on a cruise? What are your favorite activities when visiting this popular port of call? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences cruising way up north to Alaska!