The Ultimate Skagway Hiking Guide: Trails, Tips & What to Expect
Shane BelangerShare
The Ultimate Skagway Hiking Guide: Trails, Tips & What to Expect
Skagway, Alaska, isn’t just a cruise port or historic gold rush town—it’s also a hiker's paradise. Surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and glacier-fed waterfalls, Skagway offers hiking trails for every skill level. Whether you're looking for a short stroll with epic views or a heart-pounding climb into the mountains, this guide breaks down the best hikes in the area, what to bring, and what to expect.
Trail Maps & Resources:
- Official Skagway Trail Map (PDF)
- National Park Service Hiking Information
- Skagway Trails on AllTrails
1. Lower Dewey Lake Trail
- Level: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Trailhead: 2nd Ave and Broadway
What to Expect: A short but steep climb leads to a serene lake loop through mossy spruce forest with mountain views. Great for families or casual hikers.
What to Bring: Water, light jacket, bug spray, sturdy shoes.
Read more: Hike to Lower Dewey Lake – A Local Favorite Just Steps from Downtown Skagway
2. Upper Dewey Lake & Devil's Punch Bowl
- Level: Strenuous
- Distance: 6.5 miles round trip
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours
- Trailhead: Continue past Lower Dewey Lake
What to Expect: A tough climb gaining 3,000 feet to a stunning alpine lake. For extra adventure, continue to the Devil’s Punch Bowl.
What to Bring: Water, snacks, layers, rain gear, trekking poles, camera.
Read more: Hike to Upper Dewey Lake & Devil’s Punch Bowl – Skagway’s Most Rewarding Hike
3. Yakutania Point Trail
- Level: Easy
- Distance: 1 mile round trip
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Trailhead: Across the Skagway River footbridge
What to Expect: Short walk to a rocky overlook with views of Lynn Canal. Ideal for a quick scenic break.
What to Bring: Camera, snacks, jacket.
4. Smuggler’s Cove Trail
- Level: Easy
- Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Near Yakutania Point
What to Expect: A scenic stroll along Taiya Inlet with possible sea lion sightings. Flat and easy trail, great for all ages.
What to Bring: Water, jacket, camera.
5. AB Mountain Trail
- Level: Strenuous
- Distance: 10 miles round trip
- Duration: 6 to 9 hours
- Trailhead: Mile 2.5 on Dyea Road
What to Expect: A rugged, unmaintained trail with epic views of Skagway and surrounding peaks. Be prepared and allow extra time.
What to Bring: GPS or map, food, water, layers, bug spray, positive mindset.
6. Denver Glacier Trail (via WP&YR Railroad)
- Level: Moderate
- Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Trailhead: Denver Glacier train stop (requires train booking)
What to Expect: Take the historic train to a drop-off point and hike through forest to the base of a glacier. Unforgettable experience.
What to Bring: Train ticket, water, snacks, rain gear.
7. Chilkoot Trail
- Level: Moderate to Strenuous
- Distance: Up to 33 miles
- Duration: 2 hours to 5 days
- Trailhead: Dyea (9 miles from Skagway)
What to Expect: The historic gold rush route. You can enjoy a short day hike or plan a full multi-day backcountry adventure. Permits required for overnight trips.
What to Bring: Day hikers: water, layers. Overnight: full backpacking gear and permit.
Final Tips for Hiking in Skagway
- Be Bear Aware: Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Weather Changes Fast: Always dress in layers.
- Hydrate: Bring more water than you think you need.
- Leave No Trace: Respect nature and pack out your trash.
Whether you're in port for a day or a local looking for new views, Skagway's trails offer a variety of unforgettable outdoor experiences. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure,