Lower Dewey Lake
A stunningly beautiful lake hike near Skagway, offering rewarding views after a moderate climb. Perfect for cruise excursions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Lower Dewey Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunningly beautiful lake hike near Skagway, offering rewarding views after a moderate climb. Perfect for cruise excursions.
"Lower Dewey Lake is a perfect blend of effort and reward – a short but invigorating hike."
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Rocky terrain makes sturdy footwear essential for comfort and safety on the trail.
⬆️ Go Counter-Clockwise
Better photo spots on this side, and you can speed up the return if short on time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Dewey Lake Loop
Skagway, Alaska
A moderate 2.7-mile loop offering stunning lake views and a peaceful escape into nature.
The Initial Ascent
Trailhead to the lake
A rewarding, albeit steep, 30-minute climb that opens up to breathtaking vistas.
Historical Significance
Skagway
Learn how this lake was a vital water source during the Klondike Gold Rush.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Hike
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Rocky terrain makes sturdy footwear essential for comfort and safety on the trail.
⬆️ Go Counter-Clockwise
Better photo spots on this side, and you can speed up the return if short on time.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Enjoy a picnic by the lake; some reviewers suggest bringing food from town.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding forest offer stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Rocky terrain makes sturdy footwear essential for comfort and safety on the trail.
⬆️ Go Counter-Clockwise
Better photo spots on this side, and you can speed up the return if short on time.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Enjoy a picnic by the lake; some reviewers suggest bringing food from town.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding forest offer stunning photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Consider Trekking Poles
Helpful for the initial steep climb and navigating the rocky loop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lower Dewey Lake for its stunning beauty and accessibility from Skagway. The hike is described as a rewarding blend of effort and scenery, with many highlighting the picturesque lake and surrounding nature. Some note the initial steepness but find the loop around the lake to be a pleasant experience.
"Hiked here in the morning after getting off my cruise - trail entrance is right in town. 30 minutes of decent uphill climbing and then 1-2 hours of level walking around the lake. I stopped to take a lot of photos and it took me under 3 hours. I recommend going counter clockwise around the lake - better photo spots on this side and you can rush the other side if you’re running out of time."
Elizabeth DeFazio
"Absolute paradise. Easy 30 min (probably less once you know where you are going) hike up to lower lake.
Grab some food and drinks from town and head up there for a fantastic day."
Joshua “The world traveller”
"Lower Dewey Lake is a perfect blend of effort and reward — a short but invigorating hike that leads to one of Skagway’s most peaceful and photogenic spots. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a quiet escape into nature, this trail delivers."
Jitendra Kulkarni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is conveniently located within walking distance from the cruise terminal in Skagway. Follow signs as you cross the railroad tracks into town.
While the trailhead is in town, driving directly to the lake is not typically recommended for visitors. The hike is the primary way to access it.
The Lower Dewey Lake Loop trail is approximately 2.7 miles. The initial climb to the lake is about 0.5 miles.
Yes, many visitors complete the hike and enjoy the lake in under 3 hours, especially if they focus on the main trail and don't do the full loop.
Public transport is generally not needed as the trailhead is easily accessible on foot from the cruise port and downtown Skagway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike the Lower Dewey Lake trail. It's a public access area.
The trail is open year-round during daylight hours. Access is generally unrestricted, though conditions can vary with seasons.
Parking is generally not an issue as most visitors arrive on foot from the cruise port or town. If you drive, check local parking regulations in Skagway.
Yes, various tour operators in Skagway offer guided hikes to Lower Dewey Lake, which can be a good option if you prefer not to go independently.
General trail etiquette applies. Stay on marked paths, pack out what you pack in, and be aware of wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is considered moderate. It features a steep initial ascent for about 30 minutes, followed by a relatively flat loop around the lake.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours on the trail, including time for photos and enjoying the scenery. The hike itself can be completed faster.
Restroom facilities are typically not available directly at the lake. It's advisable to use facilities in Skagway before starting your hike.
Yes, some brave visitors swim in the lake, but be warned that the water is very cold, even in summer!
The initial steep climb might be challenging for very young children, but older kids can manage. The loop around the lake is more manageable.
📸 📸 Photography
The counter-clockwise side of the loop offers particularly scenic viewpoints. The lake itself, surrounded by lush greenery, is highly photogenic.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check current rules before flying. Some users have captured drone footage.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light, especially during the golden hour, for capturing the lake's serene beauty.
Yes, wildflowers can be found around the lake loop, adding color to your photographs, especially during the summer months.
While wildlife sightings are possible, always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The loop around the lake offers a more relaxed experience once you've conquered the initial ascent, making it a rewarding outing for the whole family.🚢 Cruise Ship Excursioners
Many visitors complete the hike and enjoy the lake in under 3 hours, fitting perfectly into a typical port call schedule. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The golden hour light in the morning or late afternoon can create magical shots. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the vibrant wildflowers that bloom around the lake during the summer months. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Lower Dewey Lake Trail
Once you reach the lake level, the trail opens up into a moderate loop around Lower Dewey Lake. This section is more forgiving underfoot and allows for a relaxed pace. Reviewers often suggest hiking the loop counter-clockwise for the best photographic opportunities and a more scenic experience.
Key considerations for the trail include wearing appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Trekking poles can be beneficial for stability, especially during the initial climb.
The Historical Heart of Skagway
Today, hiking the trails around Lower Dewey Lake offers a chance to connect with this history. While the gold rush era is long past, the lake and its surroundings provide a tangible link to that dynamic period. The area also features campgrounds, and in the past, kayaks were available, hinting at the recreational opportunities that have long been associated with this picturesque location.
Understanding this historical context adds another layer to the visitor experience. It transforms a simple hike into a journey through a landscape that played a pivotal role in one of North America's most famous gold rushes.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit