Skagway

Skagway is a port town in Southeast Alaska situated where the Taiya Inlet meets steep mountain slopes. The settlement runs along a narrow waterfront corridor, with wooden buildings lining several parallel streets that lead toward mountain passes.

Gold seekers founded this settlement in 1897 as a gateway to Canadian goldfields over mountain passes. After the rush ended around 1900, the town shrank rapidly and survived on tourism and port activities tied to its mining legacy.

Local businesses operate from wooden storefronts that recreate the style of late 1800s frontier settlements, with boardwalks and hand-painted signs greeting cruise passengers. Many residents work in seasonal tourism during summer months, guiding tours or running shops that close when snow covers the streets.

Cruise ships dock daily throughout summer, bringing thousands of passengers who stay for a few hours before departing. Walking shoes and layers are helpful, as weather changes quickly and streets transition into unpaved trails near the edge of town.

An old railway car sits in the middle of the main street and serves as an information booth for visitors. The town maintains its original wooden boardwalks, which become slippery when wet and preserve the feel of the gold rush era.

Location: Alaska

Inception: 1897

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Part of: organized borough

Shares border with: Haines Borough

Website: https://skagway.org

GPS coordinates: 59.46861,-135.30583

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:03