Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls – Skagway, Alaska

The Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls is one of Skagway’s most fascinating and peaceful attractions, combining dramatic Klondike history with a short, scenic nature walk. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Gold Rush figures — including the infamous con man Soapy Smith and the town hero Frank Reid — whose deadly feud shaped Skagway’s early days. Just beyond the cemetery, a gentle forest trail leads to Reid Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall tucked into the mountainside.

For cruise travelers, this is an easy, low‑effort outing that delivers both history and scenery. It’s a great way to step away from the busy downtown area and experience a quieter side of Skagway.

Fun Facts

• The cemetery dates back to the late 1890s, during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush.
• It contains the graves of Jefferson “Soapy” Smith, Skagway’s most notorious outlaw, and Frank Reid, the man who shot him.
• Their deadly shootout on July 8, 1898, is one of the most famous events in Skagway’s history.
• Many headstones belong to stampeders who died from accidents, illness, or harsh conditions.
• The trail to Reid Falls is short and shaded, following a peaceful forest path.
• Reid Falls is named after Frank Reid, who died from injuries sustained in the shootout.
• The waterfall is especially beautiful in early summer when snowmelt increases the flow.
• The area is popular with photographers thanks to its mossy forest, historic headstones, and dramatic waterfall backdrop.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visitors begin at the Gold Rush Cemetery, where interpretive signs share stories of the people buried there. The headstones are rustic and atmospheric, set among tall trees and mountain views. After exploring the cemetery, a short, easy trail leads to Reid Falls — a tall, elegant waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery.

The entire experience is quiet, reflective, and scenic. Most visitors spend 30–45 minutes here, depending on how long they linger at the waterfall or read the historical markers.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

This attraction is perfect for travelers who enjoy history, nature, and peaceful walking paths. The combination of Gold Rush storytelling and a beautiful waterfall makes it a memorable stop that feels different from Skagway’s busier downtown attractions. It’s ideal for families, photographers, and anyone who wants a calm, meaningful outing.

Where It’s Located

The Gold Rush Cemetery is located about 1.5 miles north of downtown Skagway, along the road toward the White Pass summit.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Shuttle or tour bus: Included in many Skagway city tours.
• Taxi: A quick 5‑minute ride.
• Walk: Possible but long (about 30–40 minutes each way).
• Bike: A great option via the paved path out of town.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning offers soft light and fewer visitors.
• Summer (June–August) provides the best trail conditions and strongest waterfall flow.
• Early season (May–June) may have muddy patches but offers dramatic greenery.
• Fall (September) brings beautiful foliage around the cemetery.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable shoes — the trail to the falls is easy but can be damp.
• Bring a camera — Reid Falls is one of Skagway’s prettiest natural spots.
• Read the interpretive signs to understand the stories behind the headstones.
• Combine with a Skagway city tour or a visit to Historic Downtown.
• Be respectful — this is an active historic cemetery.
• Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.

Common Complaints

• The walk from town is longer than expected.
• The cemetery can feel crowded when multiple tours arrive at once.
• Some headstones are weathered and difficult to read.
• The trail may be muddy after rain.

Final Thoughts

The Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls offers a meaningful blend of history and natural beauty, making it one of Skagway’s most peaceful and memorable attractions. It’s an easy, rewarding stop that adds depth and scenery to any cruise‑day itinerary. For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do in Skagway.