Skagway

Arrived in Skagway. It is a small tourist town but very enjoyable. In the winter it has about 850 inhabitants by July it's population is 1500 with summer workers. Last year it had about 850,000 tourists. Around 800,000 of them were from the cruse liners that stop here daily. There are many people walking the streets and dock ways.

The National Park Service has purchased many of the old properties in Skagway and restored them. They also help residents with information and grants for restoration. The Alaskan State government also has historical restoration grants available. Still many of the shops you see are the same ones you see at the other stops along the inside passageway. The town does have a nice historical western flavor to it. There are a couple of places that have several daily performances each. The quality is very good and they usually have some audience participation segments.

We drove over to Dyea where the Chilkoot Trail to the Yukon started. The Park Service has a historical site at the Dyea town site which has all but disappeared but there is very informative signage. The tidal basin and estuary is very scenic. The road past there to the trail and beyond leads to a scenic view of a mountain glacier with spectacular views.  

 
The White Pass & Yukon  narrow gauge train ride to the top of White Pass following most of the trail the prospectors took up over the pass was awesome. The views were great and the train seemed to be meeting itself coming and going.

 
We also enjoyed strolling through Jewell Gardens and glass blowing.