Skagway, Alaska Travel Guide: Discover the Gold Rush Spirit in America's Smallest City

Nestled in the coastal mountains of southeast Alaska, Skagway is the smallest city in the Last Frontier state. With a population of just over 1,000, it may seem an unlikely tourist destination. But Skagway's rich history has attracted visitors for over a century and remains one of Alaska's most popular cruise ports today.

Getting to Skagway

Most travelers arriving in Skagway do so by cruise ship, with daily sailings bringing thousands into its small downtown during the peak summer season. Norwegian, Princess, Holland America and other major lines all include calls to Skagway on their Alaska itineraries.

For independent travelers, Skagway is accessible by the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system from Juneau, about 125 miles to the southeast. Drive times along the highly scenic Klondike Highway connect Skagway to Whitehorse in Canada's Yukon Territory as well. Small regional airlines fly into the town's airport from Juneau too.

Once in Skagway, it's easy to explore on foot. The main street stretches for just a few blocks and most sights are within walking distance. For those seeking activities further afield, tour companies operate shuttle buses. You could even book attractions and transportation all in one through platforms like BitBook to earn crypto rewards along the way.

Soaking Up the Gold Rush Atmosphere

Stroll downtown and it's easy to slip back in time to Skagway's late 19th century beginnings. Lavishly painted false-fronted buildings now house shops and restaurants but were once saloons, gambling dens and "houses of ill repute" bustling with prospectors attempting the treacherous Chilkoot Trail. Costumed performers add to the old west flair.

The most authentic way to experience this bygone era is aboard the historic narrow gauge railroad. Chugging slowly through lush coastal forests and alpine meadows, the White Pass & Yukon Route transports passengers to journey's end just as it transported goods and miners over a century ago. Keep an eye out for goats, bears and mountain goats along the way.

Back downtown, the impressive Red Onion Saloon has quenched miners' thirsts since 1898. Sample a sarsaparilla or Yukon Jack cocktail while soaking up the atmosphere and memorabilia lining the walls. Not to miss is the recently expanded Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, with its museum authentically recreating life in boomtown Skagway through artifacts, photographs and multimedia displays.

Outdoor Adventures Beyond the Boardwalk

Solitude and natural beauty surround Skagway too. Hike and bike trails crisscross the lush forests and meadows just minutes from downtown. Popular routes connect to Lake Bennett, the terminus of the famed Chilkoot Trail, or up the coast on the Coastal Trail for breathtaking views of towering mountains tumbling into the sea.

Those seeking an even bigger sense of adventure can brave White Pass, nearly as perilous as the Chilkoot in gold rush days but now safely navigable by car. Meander along the Klondike Highway, hiking roadside trails with picnic areas or stopping in historic roadhouses along the way. Book scenic flightseeing tours for a birds-eye view of massive glaciers and jagged alpine peaks too.

Whether revisiting frontier history or communing with nature, Skagway delivers an authentic slice of Alaska at its best. Use platforms like BitBook to book your entire excursion and potentially earn crypto for your travels as well! Between the ambiance, adventures and stunning scenery, it's easy to understand why Skagway remains one of Alaska's most treasured ports of call.