Embark on a journey back in time aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a narrow-gauge railway that once served as a vital artery during the gold rush era. This iconic train adventure takes you from Skagway, Alaska, deep into the heart of the Yukon, offering breathtaking vistas of glacial rivers, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic gorges. Prepare to be captivated by the wild beauty of Alaska and the remarkable feat of engineering that carved this route through the rugged landscape.
The Summit Excursion: A Glimpse into History
The most popular option is the 2.5-hour excursion to the White Pass Summit. Departing from Skagway, the train retraces the footsteps of gold seekers, passing by the legendary grave of Soapy Smith, a notorious con man of the era. As the train begins its ascent, you’ll climb nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, navigating steep grades and precarious cliff-hanger curves. The journey offers unparalleled views from aptly named spots like Inspiration Point, providing a stunning panorama of Skagway Harbor and the distant Sawtooth Range. Further along, you’ll encounter Dead Horse Gulch, a somber reminder of the pack animals that perished during the arduous gold rush. Before reaching the summit, the train circles around, offering a first glimpse of the headwaters of the mighty Yukon River. For the best photographic opportunities, consider booking a morning train to capture the soft, ethereal morning light, or an evening train for the warm glow of sunset. These less crowded services also offer a more intimate experience.
Beyond the Summit: The Bennett Scenic Journey
For those yearning for an extended adventure, the Bennett Scenic Journey beckons. This 67.5-mile ride continues through historical landscapes to Carcross, Yukon. Along the way, a boxed lunch is provided, allowing you to savor the scenery as you approach the turn-of-the-century Bennett Station House, a remote outpost accessible only by train or a strenuous trek over the Chilkoot Trail. From Carcross, you have the option to continue to Whitehorse by motorcoach or return to Skagway the same day. Alternatively, extend your exploration by spending one or more nights in the Yukon before returning to Skagway by train, allowing for a deeper immersion into the region’s rich history.
Experience the Power of Steam
Adding an authentic touch to the gold rush experience, the Fraser Meadows Steam Excursion features a steam locomotive that powerfully chugs its way up the pass. This option not only provides the visual spectacle of a vintage steam engine but also immerses you in the authentic sounds and power of a bygone era as it travels six miles beyond the White Pass Summit before its return journey.
A Journey Through Time and Engineering
As the train gently sways along the tracks, you’ll be transported to the late 19th century. The parlor cars, a mix of vintage originals and faithful replicas, feature enormous windows and open viewing decks, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. Gaze down at the narrow, 10-foot-wide railroad bed carved directly into solid-rock mountainsides, and then lift your eyes to the panoramic vistas that unfold before you. You’ll be struck by the sheer magnificence of the scenery and the incredible engineering prowess required to construct this route through terrain that would challenge even the hardiest mountain goats.
Imagining the Herculean Effort
Between May 1898 and July 1900, an estimated 35,000 workers toiled tirelessly to connect Skagway and Whitehorse by rail, a monumental undertaking that sadly resulted in the loss of 35 lives. The usable tracks currently extend to Carcross. Imagine the sheer grit and determination of workers hanging from ropes on sheer rock faces, and the estimated 450 tons of explosives needed to blast the path for the railway. A significant portion of this explosive force was dedicated to overcoming the formidable obstacle of Rocky Point at Milepost 6.9. It is said that contractor Michael J. Heney boldly declared, “Give me enough dynamite and snoose and I’ll build you a railroad to hell.” Twelve miles from Skagway, the train navigates a massive horseshoe curve, offering views of Slippery Rock, a wooden trestle, and a tunnel, providing a unique perspective on the engineering marvels and the sheer grit required to build this section of the railway during the harsh winter of 1898–1899. The White Pass & Yukon Route has rightfully earned its designation as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, placing it in esteemed company alongside global icons such as the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and the Panama Canal.
Essential Travel Information
For most excursions, including the Bennett Scenic Journey, passengers will require passports as the route extends into Canada. While reservations are highly recommended for all trips, they are essential during peak season. Cruise ship passengers have the convenience of boarding directly at the dockside if they have purchased tickets through their cruise line. The White Pass Summit train is equipped with a wheelchair lift for accessibility. However, it’s important to note that other carriages may not have this facility. Due to limited space in the accessible cars, please inform the booking staff when reserving your tickets if your party requires a wheelchair lift or any other special assistance.
