things to do in skagway

Skagway, Alaska, is a charming town with a rich gold rush history, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Here are some things to do in Skagway:

1. Gold Rush Trail: Take a scenic train ride along the Klondike Highway, which follows the original gold rush trail. The train ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
2. Skagway Museum: Learn about the town’s history and the gold rush era at this museum, which features exhibits on the Klondike Highway, the gold rush, and the town’s early days.
3. Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding, a popular activity in Skagway. You can take a guided tour or even drive a sled yourself.
4. Hiking and Backpacking: Skagway is surrounded by beautiful wilderness areas, including the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Highway. Hike, backpack, or take a guided tour to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty.
5. Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through the calm waters of the Skagway River or explore the surrounding fjords and inlets.
6. Flightseeing: Take a small plane or helicopter tour to see the stunning scenery from above. You can see glaciers, mountains, and fjords from a unique perspective.
7. Whale Watching: Skagway is a great spot for whale watching, with humpback, orca, and gray whales common in the area.
8. Skagway’s Historic Downtown: Stroll through the charming downtown area, which features many historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
9. Chilkoot Lake: Visit Chilkoot Lake, a beautiful lake with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a boat tour or rent a kayak.
10. Native American Cultural Experiences: Learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit Native American tribe, which has lived in the area for thousands of years. You can visit the Skagway Native American Cultural Center or take a guided tour.
11. Fishing: Skagway is renowned for its world-class fishing, with salmon, halibut, and trout available in the area. You can take a guided fishing tour or try your luck on your own.
12. Skagway’s Festivals: Skagway hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Skagway Gold Rush Days, the Skagway Winter Carnival, and the Skagway Summer Festival.
13. Take a Scenic Drive: Drive the scenic Klondike Highway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
14. Visit the Klondike Highway Visitor Center: Stop by the visitor center to learn about the history and attractions of the Klondike Highway.
15. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride: Experience the magic of a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape of Skagway.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Skagway. The town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alaska.