Tour Details

Historic Gold Rush Scenic Drive

Skagway, a town of about 900 permanent residents tucked away in the Alaskan Wilderness, rarely disappoints visitors. A seven block corridor along Broadway Street features historic false front shops and restaurants, wooden sidewalks, locals in period costumes, and restored buildings, many of which are part of the National Park Service-managed Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Beginning in 1897, Skagway and the nearby ghost town of Dyea was the starting place for more than 40,000 gold rush stampeders who headed to the Yukon primarily by way of the Chilkoot Trail.

Your journey begins at the pier where you will meet your knowledgeable, local friendly guide. Your small, intimate group of no more than 12 guests will board a comfortable van and begin a drive through Skagway's historic district and residential district en route to the backcountry and the gold rush era town of Dyea.

While in Skagway, you'll hear colorful tales about Skagway's time as a gold rush boomtown as your guide points out some of its historic buildings. Driving through Skagway's residential district you will learn many interesting facts about this wonderful town. Where do we put all the seasonal workers in such a small town? Where do local kids go to school? Is there really no doctor in Skagway?

Once out of town, continue your journey and drive over a mountain road to what was once the gold rush city of Dyea. Along the way stop at the Naku Bay overlook and peer down the inside passage, North America's longest and deepest fjord.

Next up is the trailhead and beginning of the Chilkoot Trail. This world famous trail was the main route to the riches of the Klondike during the gold rush over 100 years ago. Now a tranquil place of incredible beauty, the trail winds through a lush rainforest alive with birds, animals, and wildflowers. Here, your guide weaves an entertaining mix of natural history and Klondike folklore.

Your journey continues as you make your way to the abandoned gold rush town of Dyea. The spruce and hemlock trees grow along what were once the streets of a bustling town full of stampeders seeking fortune.

Before returning to Skagway you will be provided with more great photo opportunities at the Taiya River overlook and a fantastic view of Skagway from above at the Skagway Overlook.

Please Note: There are comfort stops at Chilkoot Trailhead, Dyea, and the Skagway Overlook.