Gold Rush Cemetery

You can walk from downtown Skagway, which takes about 45 minutes and is a pleasant stroll along the river and train tracks.+1 Alternatively, a shuttle service is available for around $5 one-way, picking up near the visitor center. Some cruise ship excursions also include transportation.

The walk is generally considered easy, approximately 2 miles from downtown. The path is relatively flat, though it can be uneven in places. It's a scenic route that many visitors enjoy.+1

While taxis might be available, the shuttle service is more commonly recommended and cost-effective for reaching the cemetery and Reid Falls from Skagway.

Yes, many local tours in Skagway include a stop at the Gold Rush Cemetery, often focusing on the history of figures like 'Soapy' Smith. The White Pass train excursion also offers a glimpse of the area.

The distance varies depending on which dock your ship uses. From the Railroad Aft Dock, it's a shorter walk. Generally, it's about a 45-minute walk from downtown, which is accessible from most cruise terminals.

No, the Gold Rush Cemetery is a free site to visit. This makes it an accessible and popular attraction for visitors to Skagway.

The cemetery is an outdoor historical site and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted.

No advance booking is required for the cemetery itself, as it is a free public space. If you opt for a shuttle or guided tour, booking those in advance might be advisable during peak season.

Visitors are asked to be respectful of the historical site. While there are protective fences, it's important not to disturb the graves or historical markers.

Many visitors find taking a guided tour enhances the experience by providing historical context, especially regarding figures like 'Soapy' Smith. Alternatively, a self-guided walk allows for personal reflection.

The cemetery features numerous historical tombstones from the Gold Rush era, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who sought fortune in Alaska. Key figures like 'Soapy' Smith and Frank Reed are buried here.+1

Absolutely! A short, five-minute walk from the cemetery leads to the beautiful Lower Reid Falls, which many visitors find to be a stunning natural complement to the historical site.+1

Notable figures include Jefferson 'Soapy' Smith, a notorious con man, and Frank Reed, a hero of Skagway. Their graves are often points of interest for visitors.+1

There are limited facilities directly at the cemetery. Restrooms are typically available in downtown Skagway or at nearby attractions. The shuttle service can also assist with return trips.

While the cemetery is a free and historic site, some reviews mention that protective fences may be in need of repair. However, the historical significance and natural beauty remain intact.

The weathered tombstones, the surrounding Alaskan wilderness, and the cascading Lower Reid Falls offer unique photographic subjects. The historical atmosphere itself is very photogenic.+1

As long as you are discreet and respectful of the site and any ongoing services or visitors, photography is generally accepted. Focus on the historical markers and natural beauty.

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the cemetery and falls, and a tripod if you plan to shoot in lower light conditions.

The area around Soapy Smith's grave and the path leading to Reid Falls offer particularly scenic vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture the mood.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local advisories and ensure you are not disturbing other visitors or the historical integrity of the site.