White Pass Train in Skagway — Bucket List Alaska Excursion
If your Alaska cruise stops in Skagway, the White Pass & Yukon Route Train is one of the most iconic excursions you can book. This narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, passing glaciers, waterfalls, and trestles — all while tracing the path of the Klondike Gold Rush. We rode it with kids and loved every minute. Here’s what to expect, how to book, and whether it’s worth it.
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Planning your Alaska cruise? Visit my Cruise Port Guide Hub for packing tips, hotel reviews, and excursion ideas.
⭐ White Pass Train at a Glance
Duration: ~3 hours round‑trip
Best Side to Sit: Left side going up (right side on return)
Good For: All ages, families, seniors, mobility‑friendly
Departure Point: Steps from Skagway cruise port
Price Range: Typically $140–$190 per person
Book Through: Cruise line or independent operator
Highlights: Waterfalls, glaciers, trestle bridges, Gold Rush history
Arriving in Skagway: What to Expect at the Port
Landslide in Skagway
Skagway’s port area has undergone repairs after a landslide a few years ago. On our Princess Cruise, we had to tender into port using the ship’s lifeboats. The tenders are small and packed, but the ride is quick. If you’re prone to motion sickness, try to sit near a window — it made a huge difference for me.
Once ashore, you’ll notice construction equipment and temporary walkways still in place. It’s all easy to navigate, and the train station is very close to the tender drop‑off point.
Exploring Skagway Before Your Train Ride
Because we weren’t sure how long tendering would take, we left the ship early — way too early. Luckily, Skagway is incredibly walkable.
Distance to Town:
About ¼ mile, flat, and fully paved.
What to Do in Town
Pop into the free museums
Browse local shops
Grab fresh kettle corn
Visit Lucy’s for a cinnamon roll (I’m still thinking about it!)
Skagway is small, charming, and easy to explore in under an hour if you’re not a big shopper.
How to Book the White Pass Train
You can book the White Pass Train in two ways: through your cruise line or independently.
Booking Through Your Cruise Line
Easiest option
Ship will wait if there are delays
Often bundled with other excursions
If you’re staying in Alaska before or after your cruise, you can also book hotels through Booking.com and rent a car through Budget Rental Cars to explore more of the region.
What to Expect on the White Pass Train Ride
We arrived at the station about 20 minutes early, and a line was already forming. Our guide, Tom from Juneau, told us to sit on the left side going up — and he was absolutely right. That side has the best views of:
Waterfalls
Mountain cliffs
Glacial valleys
Historic trestle bridges
Dramatic drop‑offs
The train is vintage and cozy, with huge windows and narration that shares Gold Rush history along the way.
Can You Go Outside?
My dad and my son enjoying the train
Yes! Once the train is moving, you can stand in the open‑air vestibule between cars. You can’t switch cars, but you can step outside for fresh mountain air and incredible photos.
Family‑Friendly? Absolutely.
We traveled with:
My parents (mid‑70s)
My 17‑year‑old son
Me
Everyone loved it. It’s scenic, relaxing, and perfect for multigenerational travel.
Total Duration:
Just under 3 hours round‑trip — and it flew by.
After the Train Ride
You can choose to be dropped off:
Back in town, or
At the cruise port
They’re only ¼ mile apart, so either option is easy. My son and I walked back through town while my parents stayed on the train.
Is the White Pass Train Worth It? (Yes — Here’s Why)
Absolutely. This is one of the most iconic excursions in Alaska, and it’s perfect for:
Families
Seniors
First‑time Alaska cruisers
Anyone who wants stunning scenery without strenuous activity
You get waterfalls, mountain passes, glaciers, and Gold Rush history — all in a few hours, without needing to hike or navigate on your own.
What to Bring on the White Pass Train (Packing List)
Lightweight jacket
Portable phone charger
Reusable water bottle
Gloves/hat (early season)
Binoculars
Snacks
Sunglasses
Small backpack
Want more cruise reviews? Visit my Cruises Hub.
White Pass Train FAQs
How long is the White Pass Train ride?
About 2.75–3 hours round‑trip.
Which side of the train is best?
Left side going up for the best views.
Is the train wheelchair accessible?
Yes — certain cars are accessible. Check when booking.
Can you get off at the top?
Not on the standard round‑trip excursion.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes! It’s one of the most family‑friendly excursions in Alaska.
Planning an Alaska cruise? Start with these helpful guides:
Alaska Cruise Hub – Your one‑stop resource for ports, excursions, packing, and planning
Princess Plus Package Review – See what’s included and whether it’s worth it
Alaska Packing List – Everything you need (and what you can skip)
Juneau Cruise Port Guide – Top excursions, tips, and what to expect
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About the Author
Julie Davis is the travel‑hacking mom behind No Point Left Behind, a blog dedicated to helping families travel more for less. She specializes in cruise planning, points and miles strategies, and practical guides that make travel feel simple and accessible. Julie shares honest reviews, helpful packing tips, and real‑world advice based on her own family adventures.
