Skagway is a haven for cruise visitors
Skagway, Alaska, is a popular port for cruise visitors. Out of the approximately one million visitors that head to Skagway each year, about 75 percent come via cruise ship. It’s not surprising, as Alaskan cruises are a great way to explore the scenery and offerings of the state, allowing you to see a lot without wasting time. While from the Skagway cruise port it’s possible to explore the borough on foot, there are also a number of worthwhile shore excursions that allow you visit the best of Alaska with a knowledgeable guide. Additionally, the following tours are all backed up by a Worry-Free Shore Excursion Policy that states if on the rare occurrence you don’t make it back to your ship before it leaves the tour company will arrange for a transfer for you to your next port of call. To help you plan your itinerary, here is a guide to Skagway for cruise visitors.
1. A Full-Day Tour of the Yukon
If you have the opportunity to visit the Yukon, don’t pass it up. On a Full-Day Tour of the Yukon the experience begins with a scenic drive into Canada along the Klondike Highway. Soon, you’ll be immersed in woodland through the Northern Boreal Forest before reaching the Yukon. From this point on, amazing experiences abound as you visit the lakes Emerald and Bennett, the “World’s Smallest Desert” and the Caribou Crossing Trading Post and Museum. By now you’ve probably worked up an appetite, so a hearty baked BBQ chicken lunch with fixings is in order before heading to a wildlife museum full of Alaska-focused exhibits as well as petting sled dogs and hearing accounts from real mushers. Bonus: Tour-goers have the option to add on a dog sledding option, traversing the same trail used during the Gold Rush stampedes.
Tip: For some added adventure opt for a Private 4×4 Yukon Adventure, where you’ll journey to the summit of Jubilee Mountain, seeing the Yukon’s most scenic spots along the way.
2. A Bennett Train Journey on the White Pass Rail
For a true Alaskan landscape viewing experience, a Bennett Train Journey on the White Pass Rail can’t be beat (not to mention you’ll be riding a vintage train from the Gold Rush days). The railway is so special it’s earned the title of International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, awarded to “historically significant local, national, and international civil engineering projects, structures, and sites.” Travel back in history along the same path used by the 1898 Klondike stampeders, and take in views of untouched Alaskan wilderness. Some attraction highlights along the way include Matthew Watson General Store, open since the early 1900s; Emerald Lake, one of the Yukon’s most popular sights; and the 1900s’ Bennett Station House where you’ll savor a tasty lunch.
3. Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour
Outdoor-enthusiasts should opt for a Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour. The setting of the excursion is the beautiful Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Trekking the moderate Chilkoot Trail isn’t just scenic and full of wildlife, it’s a historical experience as it was created by the Tlingit people for trade and then used during the Klondike Gold Rush by miners. The trek ends at the Taiya River where you’ll board a raft for a relaxing float (keep your eyes pealed for bears!).
4. Authentic Salmon Bake In Historic Liarsville
During an Authentic Salmon Bake in Historic Liarsville you’ll spend time in a replica Gold Rush mining camp, complete with actors in attire from the 1800s. Peruse the gift shop for a heritage-inspired souvenir, have your picture taken with Denali, a sweet malamute who loves people, and, the highlight of the excursion, savor an Alaskan buffet dinner served in the forest. Some of the many offerings include grilled Alaskan salmon, Chilkoot chicken, reindeer beans, pasta, cornbread and more.
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