WHAT TO DO IN SKAGWAY

Skagway is the gateway to one of the largest, most undiscovered landscapes on the planet. There are more than 3 million lakes and 22 million acres of forest in Alaska. Over two thirds of the land cannot be accessed by road, and much of it still hasn’t been explored by humans. It really doesn’t get more off-the-beaten-path than this!

Often named the Last Frontier (or Wild Frontier) for its remoteness, a cruise to Alaska with NCL is the ideal way to see this stunning part of the world. There are so many things to do in Skagway from your Norwegian cruise ships, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss, it can be hard to know where to start. Here’s our guide to frontier excursions, Skagway day trips, and tips for sightseeing on your own.

When you don’t have long at the cruise port, a tour or excursion can be the best way of getting things ticked off your bucket list. Here are some of the top frontier excursions Skagway and beyond.

This certified U.S. Natural Historic Landmark sits on the border between Alaska and Canada. Take in the history and walk the same path as brave gold prospectors did over 100 years ago. There are a number of hiking trails to the top, including the Chilkoot Trail, International Falls, Feather Peak, Fraser Peak, and Fraser Ridge – all with fascinating and sometimes tragic stories to share. Some routes are fairly moderate, whilst others can be more challenging. Whether you want a short excursion or a full day of walking – there are options for all abilities. There are also train and coach routes to the top if you don’t fancy the hike.

For cruise tourists who don’t have long in Skagway, this scenic train journey is ideal. The Yukon Route Railroad is 45km in length and has a rich history entwined with US railways and the gold rush. The stunning 2,885-foot elevation train journey – which picks up from the cruise port – takes you from Skagway across the border in to British Columbia and back again. The 2-3 hour round trip gives you stunning panoramas of the Alaskan scenery, taking in everything from glaciers to waterfalls along the way. This is without a doubt one of the best tours in Skagway, Alaska – and it’s suitable for all ages.

Learn more about the famous Klondike Gold Rush with a scenic journey to Bennett Lake. Also known as “Kusooa Lake” or “Boat lake”, this body of water was once the bustling hub of gold prospecting – with hundreds of miners building rafts to transport goods down to the Yukon in the late 1800s. There are a number of tours and excursions taking you by coach or train. If you’ve got an overnight stay, sleep under the stars at Bennett Campground at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

Scenic river floating on the River Taiya is one the best tours in Skagway, and it’s suitable for all ages and abilities – you don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie or extreme sports enthusiast to enjoy this excursion. Meandering from Skagway through the wilderness, expect to see a variety of plant and wildlife including porpoise and seals. This is a unique way to experience Alaska’s stunning scenery, and if you’re lucky you’ll stop off at the beautiful Skagway scenic point which overlooks the town.

Take the Laughton Glacier trail to discover the spectacular sights of one of Alaska’s biggest draws for cruise tourists. The 6km hike is easier than some of the country’s other vast glaciers – and only rises 600 feet. At the top, warm up with a nice hot mug of cocoa and look out at the wilderness beyond. This is one of the wild frontier excursions you won’t want to miss when in Skagway.

Excursions are fun, but there are also plenty of things to do in Skagway that won’t cost you the earth. Here are some things to do during your cruise, both from the comfort of the deck and while you’re exploring the town.

If you’re planning more of a leisurely day than an adventure-packed one, start off with refreshments at the Observation Lounge on board the Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Joy. Part of the joy of the cruise experience is sitting back and enjoying the scenery, so why not spend an afternoon breathing in the glacial views in 180-degree panorama with floor to ceiling windows. On board the Bliss, you can also have fun on the largest race track at sea with jaw-dropping views of the Alaskan mountains as you zip around in your go-kart.

Many cruise tourists use the city as a gateway to the wilderness beyond, but Skagway itself is also worth exploring. Alaska is one of the most coffee-obsessed states in the US, so you will find countless coffee shops and cafes. You’ll also find plenty of local stores selling a range of unique souvenirs influenced by the area’s local heritage.

If you fancy stretching your legs, Yakutania Point is a great option to do on your own, without the need for a tour guide. From the port, walk along State Street leading out of the dock until you get to a bridge. There you will find a map to Yakutania Point. This walk can be completed in a few hours and is suitable for the whole family.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Skagway from your cruise ship, spend the day learning about Gold Rush history. Skagway Museum is ideal if you want a comprehensive history of the area, from its Native American culture to the railway companies and prospectors. The other free museum buildings are the Visitor Center Museum, Moore House Museum, Jeff Smiths Parlor Museum, and the Mascot Saloon Museum.

As well as stunning scenery, there are a number of museums at Klondike Gold Rush National Park, and they are open to the public free of charge, if you’re already out on a day trip in the area.

Find out more about our Alaska cruise options here today.