Riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway, Alaska

If you're planning an Alaska cruise or visit and Skagway is on your itinerary, there is one experience you absolutely cannot miss: the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This historic narrow-gauge railroad is one of the most spectacular train rides in North America — and it's an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

A Journey Back in Time

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway was built in 1898 during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, when thousands of prospectors flooded into the Yukon Territory in search of fortune. Carved through some of the most treacherous terrain imaginable, the railway was an engineering marvel of its era. Today, it's a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Riding these rails means following in the footsteps of the stampeders — and the views along the way are nothing short of extraordinary.

The Route & What to Expect

Departing from the heart of Skagway, the train climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, winding through steep mountain passes, crossing dizzying trestle bridges, and skirting sheer cliff edges with breathtaking drop-offs below. The scenery shifts dramatically as you ascend — from coastal rainforest to rugged alpine tundra.

Highlights along the route:

• Dead Horse Gulch – A haunting reminder of the brutal conditions gold rush stampeders faced
• Rocky Point – Stunning panoramic views of the Lynn Canal and surrounding peaks
• White Pass Summit – The US-Canada border at 2,865 feet, often shrouded in dramatic clouds
• Bridal Veil Falls – A gorgeous waterfall cascading down the mountainside

Perfect for Families

The White Pass Railway is genuinely one of the best family-friendly excursions available on any Alaska cruise. Here's why:

• No hiking required — the scenery comes to you as you sit back and relax in comfortable vintage railcars
• Narrated commentary throughout the journey provides fun history lessons kids actually enjoy
• Open-air observation platforms on select cars offer incredible photo opportunities
• Duration is just right — most excursions run 3–4 hours, which holds kids' attention without exhausting them

Our own kids were absolutely mesmerized from start to finish. Seeing their faces light up as the train crossed the high trestle bridges was a moment we'll never forget.

Tips for the Best Experience

1. Book early — This is one of the most popular shore excursions in Skagway and sells out fast, especially during peak summer months.
2. Layer up — Even on warm days, the summit can be surprisingly cool and windy.
3. Sit on the left side heading out of Skagway for the best views of the cliff drops and waterfalls.
4. Bring a camera — You'll want it. Every bend in the track reveals a new postcard-worthy vista.
5. Arrive a little early — Give yourself time to explore Skagway's charming historic downtown before or after your ride.

Booking Your White Pass Adventure

The White Pass Railway can be booked directly through most cruise lines as a shore excursion, or independently through the railway's website. If you're cruising with a family to Alaska, I highly recommend prioritizing this experience — it's one of the highlights of any Alaska itinerary.

As a Certified Travel Advisor specializing in family travel, I can help you plan an Alaska cruise that includes the White Pass Railway and other amazing experiences tailored perfectly for your family. Contact us today to start building your dream Alaska adventure!

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Have you ridden the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway? We'd love to hear about your experience — share your story with the Trekker Family Adventures community!