Skagway weather by month
Skagway is a stunning gateway to the Inside Passage, offering dramatic mountains, historic railways, and breathtaking wildlife. But if you’re planning a trip, understanding the monthly climate is essential for packing, scheduling activities, and ensuring an unforgettable adventure. Below is a concise, month‑by‑month breakdown of Skagway’s weather, packed with handy tips for every season.
January Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 32 °F (0 °C)
- Avg low: 21 °F (−6 °C)
- Precipitation: 3.5 in (≈9 cm)
- Rainy days: 17 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Snowshoeing, dog sledding, winter fishing, and exploring the historic Gold Rush district while bundled up. Pack a waterproof coat, gloves, and insulated boots—dry‑ice is common, and wind chill can drop to −10 °F (−23 °C).
February Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 34 °F (1 °C)
- Avg low: 22 °F (−5 °C)
- Precipitation: 4.0 in (≈10 cm)
- Rainy days: 18 of 28 days
Typical Activities: Continue winter adventures, catch early wildlife sightings, and enjoy cozy riverfront cafés. Expect wet, gloomy days; layers are key.
March Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 39 °F (4 °C)
- Avg low: 26 °F (1 °C)
- Precipitation: 4.5 in (≈11 cm)
- Rainy days: 20 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Whale‑watching on the Inside Passage, early‑season kayaking, and glacier trekking once the trails are a bit drier. Still cold—bring wind‑proof jackets.
April Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 42 °F (6 °C)
- Avg low: 29 °F (−1 °C)
- Precipitation: 3.0 in (≈7.6 cm)
- Rainy days: 14 of 30 days
Typical Activities: Spring hiking in the Tongass National Forest, bird‑watching, and exploring the revived railroad scenery. Temperature rises, but night frosts can still appear.
May Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 48 °F (9 °C)
- Avg low: 34 °F (1 °C)
- Precipitation: 3.8 in (≈9.6 cm)
- Rainy days: 18 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Golden‑hour photography, wildlife photography, and day trips to Glacier Bay. Wear layers; the day may feel mild while nights remain cool.
June Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 56 °F (13 °C)
- Avg low: 41 °F (5 °C)
- Precipitation: 1.5 in (≈3.8 cm)
- Rainy days: 6 of 30 days
Typical Activities: Canoeing, coastal trekking, and celebrating the June solstice. The days are longer, and the weather steadier—perfect for outdoor photography.
July Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 60 °F (16 °C)
- Avg low: 45 °F (7 °C)
- Precipitation: 1.2 in (≈3 cm)
- Rainy days: 5 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Hiking the most popular trails, river fishing, and attending the Mid‑South Alaskan Fair. Bring a light rain jacket—mid‑summer showers can pop up suddenly.
August Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 60 °F (16 °C)
- Avg low: 44 °F (6 °C)
- Precipitation: 1.4 in (≈3.5 cm)
- Rainy days: 6 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Glacier kayaking, wildlife watching, and cultural tours. The weather is similar to July—keep a versatile wardrobe ready.
September Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 55 °F (13 °C)
- Avg low: 40 °F (4 °C)
- Precipitation: 1.7 in (≈4 cm)
- Rainy days: 7 of 30 days
Typical Activities: Harvest festivals, back‑country hiking, and seeing the first autumn colors. The evenings cool down—bring an extra layer.
October Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 47 °F (8 °C)
- Avg low: 34 °F (1 °C)
- Precipitation: 2.3 in (≈5.8 cm)
- Rainy days: 11 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Scenic train rides, exploring the town’s historic buildings, and enjoying holiday celebrations. Warm, layered clothing ensures comfort even during brief cold snaps.
November Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 38 °F (3 °C)
- Avg low: 28 °F (−2 °C)
- Precipitation: 3.2 in (≈8.1 cm)
- Rainy days: 15 of 30 days
Typical Activities: Preparing for winter, limited outdoor trips, and visiting the Skagway Winter Festival. Be ready for increasing rainfall and shorter daylight.
December Weather in Skagway
- Avg high: 34 °F (1 °C)
- Avg low: 21 °F (−6 °C)
- Precipitation: 3.6 in (≈9 cm)
- Rainy days: 17 of 31 days
Typical Activities: Winter sports, Christmas market, and enjoying the glow of seasonal lights. Pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof gear.
Skagway Weather by Month – Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Avg Precipitation (in) | Rainy Days | Typical Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 32 | 21 | 3.5 | 17 | Snowshoeing, dog sledding, indoor museums |
| February | 34 | 22 | 4.0 | 18 | Winter fishing, cozy cafés, wildlife viewing |
| March | 39 | 26 | 4.5 | 20 | Whale‑watching, early kayaking, glacier hikes |
| April | 42 | 29 | 3.0 | 14 | Spring hikes, bird‑watching, train rides |
| May | 48 | 34 | 3.8 | 18 | Photography, day trips to Glacier Bay, festivals |
| June | 56 | 41 | 1.5 | 6 | Canoeing, coastal trekking, sunrise events |
| July | 60 | 45 | 1.2 | 5 | Hiking, fishing, summer fairs |
| August | 60 | 44 | 1.4 | 6 | Glacier kayaking, wildlife tours, festivals |
| September | 55 | 40 | 1.7 | 7 | Harvest festivals, autumn hikes, scenic drives |
| October | 47 | 34 | 2.3 | 11 | Train rides, holiday celebrations, cultural tours |
| November | 38 | 28 | 3.2 | 15 | Winter prep, indoor attractions, light outdoor trips |
| December | 34 | 21 | 3.6 | 17 | Winter sports, Christmas markets, light shows |
FAQ – Skagway Weather
Q1: What is the best time to visit Skagway for mild, sunny weather?
A: Late June to early August offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight, ideal for outdoor activities.
Q2: How much rain can I expect year‑round in Skagway?
A: Skagway receives a steady amount of precipitation throughout the year, peaking in March–May and July–August, with 1–4 inches of rain per month on average.
Q3: Do I need an Arctic‑level coat in the summer?
A: No, a light windbreaker or fleece is sufficient for the cooler evenings in June through September; temperatures rarely exceed 60 °F.
Q4: What is the average temperature in December?
A: Expect highs around 34 °F (1 °C) and lows near 21 °F (−6 °C).
Q5: Is snow common in Skagway during the winter months?
A: Yes—January and February typically bring significant snowfall, with accumulation often exceeding 15 inches annually.
Further Resources
- NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information: Detailed climate data for Skagway, AK.
- Alaska State Parks – North Slope: Guides to local trails and seasonal tips.
- Visit Skagway Official Tourism Site: Updated event calendar and packing recommendations.
- Weather Underground – Skagway Forecasts: Real‑time weather updates and radar.
- Alaska Climate and Weather – Alaska.org: Comprehensive climate overview for planning travel.
Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, traversing historic tracks, or simply soaking in the quiet rugged beauty, knowing Skagway’s monthly weather patterns ensures you’re perfectly prepared for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Happy travels!
