Christopher Stroud

Skagway was our favorite, as the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush it is teeming with history. Much of the downtown is actually a U.S. Park maintained by the Park Service. They offer a free walking tour from their headquarters – we highly recommend it. You’ll learn all about the gold rush, Soapy Smith, Frank Reid and all of the other characters of long ago.

It was here that we took our shore excursion. We hiked the Klondike Trial (only about 2 miles worth) and then floated down the Taiya River. NCL lists the trip as “Hiking and Floating the Chilkoot Trail” – it was well worth it. The hike was through beautiful country and the float was very nice. The breeze on the river is strong so bring proper gear. Our guide, Patrick, was very informative and enthusiastic, and all in all we enjoyed it. Our only concern was that we didn’t take any other shore excursions – we heard from others who saw Orcas on whale-watching trips and the like. Do as many as you can afford!

Check out the Available
Shore Excursions in Skagway

Ask a Question About Alaskan Ports