White Pass & Yukon Route Railway – Skagway, Alaska

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is Skagway’s most iconic experience, offering a breathtaking journey through glacier‑carved valleys, towering peaks, and historic Gold Rush terrain. Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow‑gauge railroad climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, passing waterfalls, wooden trestles, and dramatic cliffside views along the way. It’s one of the most scenic and historically significant rail journeys in the world.

For cruise travelers, the White Pass Railway fits seamlessly into a port‑day itinerary. Most excursions depart right beside the cruise dock, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding activities in Skagway. The ride is comfortable, narrated, and suitable for all ages—perfect for travelers who want big scenery without strenuous activity.

Fun Facts

• The railway was built in just 26 months during the Klondike Gold Rush.
• It climbs from sea level to 2,865 feet at the White Pass summit.
• The line is a narrow‑gauge railway, allowing tighter curves through steep terrain.
• Construction required blasting through solid rock using hand drills and dynamite.
• The route includes the famous Steel Bridge, once the tallest cantilever bridge in the world.
• The train crosses into British Columbia on longer excursions.
• The railway is designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, alongside the Eiffel Tower and Panama Canal.
• Many of the vintage railcars date back to the early 1900s.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Most visitors board the train directly from the cruise dock or the nearby depot. The vintage railcars feature large windows, bench seating, and open platforms for photography. As the train climbs out of Skagway, you’ll pass waterfalls, deep gorges, historic trestles, and remnants of the original Gold Rush trail. The narration shares stories of stampeders, engineering feats, and the harsh realities of the Klondike era.

The classic round‑trip White Pass Summit excursion lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it ideal for cruise schedules. Longer tours extend into Canada, offering even more dramatic scenery. The ride is smooth, scenic, and accessible for all mobility levels.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

The White Pass Railway is perfect for travelers who want a high‑impact experience with minimal effort. The scenery is spectacular, the history is fascinating, and the ride is comfortable and relaxing. It’s ideal for families, photographers, history lovers, and anyone who wants to see the dramatic landscapes that made Skagway famous. If you only choose one excursion in Skagway, this is the one that delivers the most “wow” moments.

Where It’s Located

The railway depot is located in downtown Skagway, directly adjacent to the cruise docks and within easy walking distance of the main street.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Walk: 1–5 minutes from most cruise berths
• Excursion transport: Not needed; many trains board directly beside the ship
• Independent travelers: Can check in at the depot on 2nd Avenue

Best Time to Visit

• Morning departures offer crisp light and fewer crowds.
• Mid‑summer (June–August) provides the greenest scenery.
• Early season (May–June) offers snow‑capped peaks and dramatic contrasts.
• Fall (September) brings golden foliage along the mountainsides.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring a jacket—mountain air is cooler at the summit.
• Step onto the open platforms for the best photos.
• Sit on the left side going up for the most dramatic views (right side on the return).
• Book early—this is Skagway’s most popular excursion.
• If you want a longer adventure, choose a tour that continues into Canada.
• Keep your camera ready—waterfalls and cliffside views appear quickly.

Common Complaints

• Windows can fog or glare depending on weather.
• The ride may feel long for travelers who prefer active excursions.
• Some visitors wish for more time outside the train.
• Weather can be cloudy or rainy, limiting distant views.

Final Thoughts

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is the signature Skagway experience, offering breathtaking scenery and powerful Gold Rush history in a comfortable, easy‑to‑access excursion. It’s a perfect fit for cruise travelers who want a memorable, high‑impact adventure without strenuous activity. For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do in Skagway.