Skagway may be one of the smallest cruise ports in Alaska, but it’s definitely one of the most exciting! Since it’s surrounded by mountains, glacier-filled wilderness, and Gold Rush history, this little town is the gateway to some of the most unforgettable excursions in the state.
Sure, downtown Skagway is charming and easy to explore on foot, but the real magic starts once you head beyond town and into the wild landscapes surrounding it.
This guide is for cruise passengers trying to make the most of a port day, independent Alaska travelers planning their route, families looking for memorable experiences, and adventure lovers chasing those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
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Best Skagway Tours by Traveler Type
Best Tours for Cruise Passengers
- White Pass Railway Tour – Scenic and easy to fit into a port day
- Yukon Bus & Train Combo Tours – Great for seeing more without worrying about logistics
- Wildlife Tours – Convenient pickup locations and family-friendly pacing
Best Tours for Families
- White Pass & Yukon Route Railway – Comfortable and entertaining for all ages
- Wildlife Tours – Kids love spotting bears, bald eagles, and mountain goats
- Musher Camp Experiences – Fun way to meet sled dogs without the cost of a helicopter tour
Best Adventure Tours
- Glacier Helicopter Tours – Incredible aerial views and glacier landings
- Dog Sledding Excursions – One of the most iconic Alaska bucket-list experiences
- ATV Tours – Perfect for travelers who don’t mind a little mud and adrenaline
Best Budget-Friendly Tours
- Historic Walking Tours – Affordable and packed with Gold Rush history
- Shuttle Sightseeing Tours – Scenic without the premium price tag
- Train Ride-Only Excursions – Cheaper than full Yukon combo tours but still offers amazing views
Quick Tips Before Booking Tours in Skagway
What to Know Before You Go
If you’re visiting Skagway on a cruise, timing matters more than anything else. Many excursions are designed around ship schedules, but if you book independently, make sure you leave enough buffer time to comfortably return before all aboard.
One of the biggest decisions is whether to book through your cruise line or with a local operator. Cruise-line excursions usually offer convenience and built-in guarantees, while independent tours can sometimes be smaller, more affordable, and a little more unique.
Weather in Skagway changes quickly, even during summer. Expect cool mornings, occasional rain, and shifting conditions throughout the day, so layers and waterproof gear are essential no matter when you visit.
The good news is that many tours leave directly from town or offer port pickups, so logistics is fairly easy. However, some of the most popular experiences, especially helicopter tours and glacier dog sledding excursions, have limited daily spots and can sell out months in advance during peak cruise season.
Best Time to Visit Skagway
Tour season in Skagway generally runs from May through September, which lines up with Alaska cruise season. Each month offers slightly different weather, wildlife activity, and excursion availability.
May and early June are excellent for fewer crowds, snow-capped mountain views, and cooler temperatures. Wildlife sightings also tend to pick up during this period, especially for bears and bald eagles emerging after winter.
June through August is the busiest time to visit and usually has the warmest weather and the widest selection of tours. This is also the prime season for glacier dog sledding experiences, since helicopter operators have the most consistent flying conditions during mid-summer.
September brings smaller crowds and beautiful fall colors, but temperatures start dropping and some excursions begin winding down for the season. Rain also becomes more common later in the month, although you may find better prices and a quieter overall experience.
Best Tours in Skagway
1. White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Tour
If there’s one excursion that defines Skagway, it’s the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This historic narrow-gauge train has been carrying passengers through the mountains since the Klondike Gold Rush era, and somehow it still manages to feel both nostalgic and wildly impressive at the same time!
The scenery is the real star of the show here. You get dramatic cliffs, rushing waterfalls, alpine lakes, old trestle bridges, and misty mountain peaks that look straight out of a movie set.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Alaska, this is the easiest “yes” when choosing a tour. It’s scenic without being physically demanding, incredibly photogenic, and packed with local history that makes the landscapes feel even more fascinating.
There are a few different ways to experience the railway depending on your budget and schedule. Some tours are simple roundtrip train rides, while others combine the train with a bus journey along the Klondike Highway for different views on the return trip.
Some excursions also continue into Canada and the Yukon Territory, which adds even more scenery and historic stops along the way. These combo tours are great if you want a little more adventure without committing to a strenuous activity.
Most Yukon tours travel through White Pass before crossing the border into Canada, so don’t forget your passport! A physical passport (not just a copy) is mandatory for these specific excursions. Passport Cards are also generally accepted for land crossings here.
The railway tour works well for almost every type of traveler. Families love the easy pace, seniors appreciate the comfort, and cruise passengers with limited time can still experience Alaska’s landscapes without venturing too far from port.
2. Dog Sledding in Skagway
Dog sledding in Skagway is one of those “This only happens in Alaska!” experiences. Even in the middle of summer, you can fly by helicopter onto a glacier, step onto real snow, and ride behind a team of excited sled dogs surrounded by massive icy peaks.
Most glacier dog sledding tours start with a helicopter ride over waterfalls, forests, and glaciers before landing at a remote musher camp high in the mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll meet the dogs, chat with mushers about racing culture and training, and take a short sled ride across the snow.
It’s equal parts adventure and pure joy, especially when the dogs start barking with excitement before the ride! The entire experience feels a little surreal in the best possible way.
The most popular option is the helicopter and dog sledding combo tour, which is also one of the most expensive excursions in Skagway. Prices range from several hundred dollars per person, but for many travelers, this ends up being the highlight of the entire Alaska trip.
If helicopter tours aren’t in your budget, there are still ways to experience Alaska’s sled dog culture. Some excursions visit musher camps without glacier landings, so you get the chance to meet the dogs and learn about mushing traditions at a lower price point.
As for whether dog sledding in Skagway is worth it, the answer honestly depends on your priorities. It’s expensive and weather-dependent, but it’s also one of the most unique excursions you can do anywhere in Alaska.
For glacier dog sledding tours, dressing properly makes a huge difference. Wear warm layers, closed-toe waterproof shoes, and sunglasses since glacier glare can be surprisingly intense even on cloudy days.
Most tour companies provide additional gear if needed, but lightweight layers work best because temperatures can change quickly between town and the glacier. You’ll also want a secure strap for your phone or camera because the helicopter views are ridiculously beautiful and very distracting.
3. Glacier Helicopter Tours
What experiences feel more quintessentially Alaska than soaring over massive glaciers in a helicopter? If you’ve ever wanted to feel tiny in the most spectacular way possible, this is the tour for you!
Helicopter excursions give you access to remote glaciers and icefields that would otherwise be nearly impossible to reach. From above, the landscape looks endless with jagged mountains, bright blue crevasses, waterfalls, and ribbons of ice stretching in every direction.
Most tours begin with a short safety briefing before boarding the helicopter near Skagway. Flight times vary depending on the excursion, but even shorter rides pack in incredible scenery almost immediately after takeoff.
Many tours include glacier landings where you can actually walk on the ice with experienced guides. Some excursions focus purely on sightseeing, while others combine glacier landings with hiking, ice climbing, or dog sledding experiences.
These tours definitely fall into the splurge category, but they’re also the kind of experience people talk about for years afterward. If your Alaska trip includes one major bucket-list excursion, this is a strong contender.
4. Yukon Territory & Emerald Lake Tours
One of the coolest things about Skagway is that you can actually cross into Canada and explore part of the Yukon Territory in a single day. The drive alone is worth it: winding mountain roads, dramatic overlooks, waterfalls, and endless wilderness views along the Klondike Highway.
Most Yukon tours travel through White Pass before crossing the border into Canada, so don’t forget your passport! A physical passport (not just a copy) is mandatory for these specific excursions. Passport Cards are also generally accepted for land crossings here.
Wildlife sightings are also common along the route and it’s not unusual to spot bears, mountain goats, or even moose depending on the season.
Emerald Lake is usually the star attraction on these tours, and yes, the water really is THAT green in person! The color comes from mineral deposits left behind by glaciers and it almost looks unreal on sunny days. May is incredible, but the lake may be frozen or “iced over” until late May or early June. If you want that “emerald” color, June–August is the sweet spot.
Many excursions also stop at suspension bridges, scenic viewpoints, and the tiny town of Carcross. Some tours include the famous Carcross Desert, often called the world’s smallest desert, which makes for a surprisingly fun and quirky stop in the middle of all the mountain scenery.
Smaller group Yukon tours tend to feel a little more relaxed and personal compared to larger bus excursions. They also allow for more photo stops along the way, which you’ll absolutely want because this drive is stunning from start to finish.
5. Skagway Wildlife Tours
If seeing Alaska wildlife is high on your bucket list, Skagway is a fantastic place to book a nature-focused excursion. The landscapes around town are incredibly wild and there’s always a chance of spotting animals even during a simple drive or train ride.
Bear sightings are one of the biggest draws, especially during the summer months when they’re more active near rivers and forested areas. Bald eagles are also everywhere in Skagway.
Mountain goats are commonly spotted along rocky cliffs and higher elevations near the Klondike Highway. If you’re booking a Yukon or scenic driving tour, keep your camera ready because wildlife appearances tend to happen when you least expect them!
Some wildlife excursions also combine land and water experiences, so you get the chance to spot whales, sea lions, seals, and otters nearby. These combo tours are especially popular for visitors wanting a little bit of everything in one day.
TravelCharlee Tip: Many travelers don’t realize they can take a 45-minute high-speed ferry to the neighboring town of Haines, which is the “Bald Eagle Capital of the World” and offers incredible wildlife viewing in the Chilkat Valley.
For families, wildlife tours are one of the easiest and most enjoyable excursion choices. They usually require minimal physical effort, offer constantly changing scenery, and keep kids engaged with the possibility of surprise animal sightings along the way.
6. Fjord Boat Tours
While Skagway is famous for trains and mountain adventures, boat tours offer a completely different perspective of Alaska’s landscapes. Cruising through fjords surrounded by towering cliffs, floating ice, and waterfalls feels peaceful, dramatic, and somehow cinematic all at once.
Many of these tours focus on scenic cruising through nearby waterways where glaciers spill down into the ocean. If you’re lucky, you may even witness glacier calving, huge chunks of ice breaking off and crashing into the water with a thunderous sound!
TravelCharlee Tip: Many travelers don’t realize that Skagway is the gateway to its quieter neighbor, Haines. If you’ve already seen enough glaciers from your cruise ship, look for an independent boat excursion that takes the Fast Ferry to Haines for a wildlife-focused jet boat tour through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.
Marine wildlife is another major highlight on these excursions. Depending on the season, sightings can include humpback whales, seals, sea lions, porpoises, and countless seabirds gliding through the fjords.
If you’re a cruise passenger, you might wonder whether independent boat tours are worth it if you’re already seeing Alaska from a ship. The biggest difference is proximity and intimacy, since smaller excursion boats can often get much closer to waterfalls, wildlife, and glaciers than large cruise ships can.
Independent tours also tend to feel quieter and more immersive. Instead of watching the scenery from several decks above the water, you’re much closer to the action, which makes the experience feel more personal and adventurous.
7. ATV & Adventure Tours in Skagway
Not every Skagway excursion is slow-paced sightseeing. If you want something a little muddier, faster, and more adrenaline-filled, adventure tours are a fun way to experience Alaska’s rugged backcountry.
ATV tours take you along dirt trails, forest paths, and mountain routes with incredible scenery around nearly every corner. Depending on recent weather, expect a healthy amount of mud, puddles, and the occasional “well, that escalated quickly” moment. You will leave with a layer of Alaskan silt on your face, but it’s arguably the best organic spa treatment in Southeast Alaska.
The combination of dramatic landscapes and off-road driving makes these tours especially popular with couples, groups of friends, and active travelers. Many routes include scenic overlooks where you can stop for photos surrounded by mountains, rivers, and dense forests.
Ziplining is another popular adventure option in Skagway. Flying through the trees with mountain views in the distance adds just the right amount of thrill without requiring any serious outdoor experience.
Hiking excursions are also widely available for travelers wanting a more active way to explore the area. Some focus on waterfalls and forest trails, while others head toward alpine viewpoints with panoramic scenery that feels straight out of a postcard.
A few operators even offer rock climbing and mountaineering-style experiences for experienced adventurers. If your ideal Alaska day includes getting slightly dirty and fully immersed in nature, Skagway definitely delivers.
TravelCharlee Tip: Pack a small “refresh kit” in your day bag with high-quality biodegradable face wipes, a hydrating mist, and a small tube of hand cream. Most tour operators provide the gear (helmets and rain gear), but having your own touch of wellness to “wash off the mountain” before you transition back to town makes the adventure feel much more seamless.
8. Gold Rush History Tours
Long before cruise ships arrived, Skagway was one of the wildest boomtowns of the Klondike Gold Rush. History tours bring that era to life with stories of fortune seekers, outlaws, saloons, and the chaotic rush north during the late 1890s.
Cruising through downtown Skagway already feels a bit like stepping back in time, thanks to the preserved wooden storefronts and historic buildings. Guided tours add context to everything, so the town’s history feels much more vivid and entertaining.
Many excursions focus on famous local figures, Gold Rush routes, and the challenges prospectors faced while traveling through the harsh mountain terrain. Some tours also dive into Skagway’s rowdier history, including notorious brothels, saloons, and larger-than-life frontier characters.
TravelCharlee Tip:If you want to experience the Gold Rush history of the White Pass Railway but prefer the sound of rushing water over a train whistle, the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float is a great tour option. It’s perfect for the “Active Historian” who wants to get their boots on the ground. The tour starts with a scenic drive to the nearby Dyea Valley, where you’ll hike the first two miles of the legendary Chilkoot Trail. This is the same path that thousands of “stampeders” took on their way to the Klondike. The “float” of the adventure begins when the trail meets the Taiya River. You’ll board a sturdy raft for a relaxing, scenic float (no whitewater here!) back toward Dyea. It’s incredibly peaceful, offering views of snow-capped peaks and granite fjord walls that you just can’t see from the road.
Definitely don’t miss this stop before you board the ship! One of the most interesting stops for history lovers is the Red Onion Saloon, a former brothel turned museum and restaurant. The tours here lean playful and theatrical while still sharing genuinely fascinating stories about Skagway’s past.
Gold Rush history tours are perfect for travelers who prefer a slower-paced excursion without sacrificing storytelling or atmosphere. They also pair really well with the White Pass Railway tour since both experiences connect closely to Skagway’s historic roots.
How Much Do Skagway Tours Cost?
Excursion prices in Skagway vary wildly depending on the activity, duration, and level of adventure involved. Some tours are very affordable, while others fall firmly into “once-in-a-lifetime splurge” territory.
Budget-friendly excursions like walking tours, shuttle tours, and basic sightseeing experiences typically range from around $50 to $80 per person. These are great for travelers who want to experience Skagway without committing to a huge expense.
Mid-range tours, including many railway excursions and Yukon combo tours, usually fall between $150 and $250 per person. These tend to offer the best balance between scenery, comfort, and overall experience.
Luxury excursions like glacier helicopter rides and dog sledding tours often start around $450 per person and can climb significantly higher depending on flight time and inclusions. These are expensive, yes, but also some of the most iconic experiences in Alaska.
Cruise excursions are generally more convenient and provide extra security for timing, but they can sometimes cost more and involve larger group sizes. Meanwhile, independent operators offer smaller groups and slightly more unique experiences, but you’ll want to research carefully and pay close attention to return times.
What to Pack for Skagway Excursions
Weather conditions in Skagway can shift quickly throughout the day. Even during summer, mornings can feel chilly and rainy before turning surprisingly sunny a few hours later.
Waterproof layers are easily the most important thing to bring. A lightweight rain jacket, warm layers underneath, and moisture-resistant clothing will keep you comfortable whether you’re riding a train, exploring the Yukon, or standing on a windy glacier.
TravelCharlee Tip: Skip the heavy, bulky parka. Instead, opt for a high-quality base layer (merino wool is best), a light cashmere or fleece mid-layer, and a sleek, packable waterproof shell. This “system” allows you to peel back layers during a sunny hike and bundle up for a glacier landing without looking like you’re headed on an Everest expedition.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for almost every excursion. Even sightseeing-focused tours usually involve uneven ground, short walks, or slippery surfaces near docks and viewpoints.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth packing remedies before any boat tours, helicopter rides, or winding Yukon drives. Alaska’s scenery is much more enjoyable when you’re not focused on surviving the curves!
Camera gear is absolutely worth bringing in Skagway because the scenery is NON-STOP. Just make sure phones, cameras, and accessories are secured properly during helicopter and ATV excursions because things can get windy very quickly.
One more time, if you’re planning a Yukon Territory tour, don’t forget your passport!
For more Alaska trip planning help, make sure to check out my full Alaska digital guide for detailed recommendations and practical travel tips.
One Last Thing Before You Book…
If there’s one piece of advice I’d give, it’s to book popular tours as early as possible. Glacier dog sledding experiences, White Pass Railway excursions, and helicopter tours often sell out well before peak Alaska cruise season arrives.
And if you’re still planning your Alaska trip, make sure to check out my Alaska digital guide. It includes detailed port guides, itinerary ideas, budgeting tips, and practical planning advice to make your Alaska cruise or land trip much easier!