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Activity Skagway, USA

Skagway Scenic Tour Gold Rush History and Waterfalls

5.0 (15 reviews) 3 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Skagway Scenic Tour Gold Rush History and Waterfalls

About this activity

Discover Skagway’s rich Gold Rush history and stunning natural beauty on this comprehensive 2.5 to 3 hour scenic tour, led by a locally owned, owner-operated company and a year-round resident guide. Travel through town and beyond with someone who lives and works here, sharing the stories, history, and local insight that bring this place to life.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and cruise passengers with limited time, ensuring you experience the best of Skagway while still having time to explore on your own.

Tour Highlights

Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with light walking

Locally owned, owner-operated tour led by a year-round resident

Small group size for a more personal, well-managed experience

Scenic stops include the Gold Rush Cemetery, Reid Falls, Pitchfork Falls, Klondike Highway, and scenic overlooks

Photo stop at the iconic “Welcome to Alaska” sign

Convenient meeting location near the cruise docks at Centennial Statue Park

Nature and Wildlife Tours Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Historical Tours Excellent Quality Adventure Tours Low Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration
3 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 20 people
People per booking
1–20
Guide
English
Operated by
Local Skagway Day Trips

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Adults (3–120 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Flexible drop-off (downtown or cruise dock)
  • Included: Live narration with local history, stories, and insight
  • Included: Local, owner-operated guide
  • Included: Photo stop at the iconic “Welcome to Alaska” sign
  • Included: Scenic stops including Gold Rush Cemetery, Reid Falls, Pitchfork Falls, and overlooks above town
  • Included: Wheelchair lift available by advance request

Not included

  • Not included: Food and Drink
  • Not included: Gratuities (optional, but appreciated)

Itinerary

  1. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center

    Passing by

    Drive through historic downtown Skagway along Broadway, lined with Gold Rush-era buildings, shops, and stories from the Klondike era.

  2. Skagway Alaska Downtown

    Passing by

    Get a comprehensive overview of Skagway as you travel through downtown, residential areas, and key local landmarks. See the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway yard, Skagway River, City Hall, and everyday life beyond the tourist center.

  3. Gold Rush Cemetery

    15 min

    Visit the historic Gold Rush Cemetery, where many figures from Skagway’s Klondike era are buried, including the infamous outlaw Soapy Smith. Hear the stories that bring this fascinating chapter of history to life.

  4. Lower Reid Falls

    15 min

    Enjoy a short walk to Lower Reid Falls, a scenic waterfall tucked just beyond the cemetery and surrounded by forest and mountain views.

  5. Skagway

    Passing by

    Enjoy views up the White Pass from a bridge over the Skagway River, where the Klondike Highway winds through dramatic mountain scenery.

  6. Pitchfork Falls

    10 min

    Rising dramatically nearly 2,000 feet down the mountainside, Pitchfork Falls is one of the most striking waterfalls along the Klondike Highway. It cascades toward the Skagway River and passes beneath the historic bridge.

  7. Skagway

    10 min

    The iconic “Welcome to Alaska” sign is a classic photo stop. Surrounded by mountain scenery, it’s a memorable moment to step out, take a photo, and officially mark your entry into Alaska.

  8. Dyea

    Passing by

    Follow Dyea Road and learn about the historic route once used by stampeders heading toward the Chilkoot Trail and the town of Dyea.

  9. Skagway Overlook

    15 min

    Enjoy panoramic views of Skagway, the harbor, and surrounding mountains from a scenic overlook above town, one of the best photo spots in the area.

  10. Skagway Alaska Downtown

    Passing by

    As we return to Skagway, you’ll have the option to be dropped off either in the heart of downtown or back at your ship. Many guests choose to spend some extra time exploring the historic streets, browsing local shops, or grabbing a bite before heading back onboard.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Meet near the statue in Centennial Park (Shoreline Park) at 1st and Broadway, a short walk from the cruise docks. Look for your guide holding a "Gold Rush History and Waterfalls" sign. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Tours depart on time; late arrivals are considered no-shows

End point

  • Drop-off is available at your cruise ship dock or in downtown Skagway upon request.

Using your ticket

***PASSPORTS REQUIRED!***

Please arrive at the designated meeting location (1st and Broadway) at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Your guide will be holding a sign that reads “Gold Rush History and Waterfalls”

Tours depart on time. Guests arriving more than 10 minutes after departure will be considered no-shows and are not eligible for a refund.

***PASSPORTS REQUIRED!***

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 15 reviews
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Skagway Scenic Tour Gold Rush History and Waterfalls

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