Board a vintage 1898 narrow-gauge train at the dock and climb ~3,000 feet in 20 miles on the original Klondike gold-rush route, hugging cliff edges above Dead Horse Gulch past Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and steel cantilever trestles. It's a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and the one thing a first-timer with a single port day would most regret missing. ~2.5–2.75 hrs round trip, departs steps from the ship.
What to expect
Board a vintage 1898 narrow-gauge train directly from the dock and begin a dramatic 20-mile climb gaining ~3,000 feet through high country, pressing against windows as the rails hug cliff edges above Dead Horse Gulch with Bridal Veil Falls and Inspiration Point unfolding below. Steel cantilever trestles carry you across impossible spans while onboard narration traces the Klondike gold-rush route that built this National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The summit arrive in crisp alpine air with mountain vistas stretching in all directions, then the same spectacular views reverse course as you descend back to sea level, the entire rhythm contained in a round-trip of just 2.5–2.75 hours—intimate, unhurried, and never leaving sight of ship or dock.
Good to know
Book directly with White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ($155 adult / $77.50 child, advance rate) at least 24 hours ahead; the cruise line resells identical railcars for $20–75 more per adult, making direct booking a clear financial win. The excursion departs steps from the ship, eliminating transfer time and allowing a comfortable 6–8 hour port window with a 15–20 minute buffer before all-aboard. Wear layers—summit temperatures are mountain-cold even in season—and bring a camera; there is no shopping, dining, or town time on this route, so plan accordingly if your port day includes multiple activities.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Skagway — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.