Smugglers Cove
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Smuggler's Cove

4.8
·36 reviews·Skagway, United States

A tranquil, secluded cove accessible by a scenic hike, offering peaceful nature and beautiful coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Smugglers Cove

Smuggler's Cove

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil, secluded cove accessible by a scenic hike, offering peaceful nature and beautiful coastal views.

4.8
(36 reviews)

"Great trail, worth the walk, and it’s free."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy Hike from Cruise Ship

A short, scenic 15-30 min walk from the footbridge near the ships. Great views!

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

Grab food from local markets for a peaceful BBQ at the cove.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cove Itself

The Cove Itself

Smuggler's Cove

A peaceful, secluded beach with stunning views, perfect for a picnic or quiet contemplation.

Scenic Hike

Scenic Hike

Trail to Smuggler's Cove

An easy to moderate 15-30 minute walk through a forest, offering beautiful natural scenery.

Picnic and Fire Pit

Picnic and Fire Pit

Smuggler's Cove

Enjoy a meal amidst nature with provided amenities, but always check fire regulations.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Smuggler's Cove

Smuggler's Cove is a popular stop for cruise ship passengers. To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially during peak cruise season. Check the cruise ship schedule for Skagway to gauge potential crowd levels.

Getting to Smuggler's Cove

While accessible by a scenic hike, Smuggler's Cove is not stroller or wheelchair friendly. The trail involves inclines and declines. Consider the terrain when planning your visit, especially if traveling with young children or those with mobility challenges. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Cruise crowds thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
October
Why
Limited shopping, fewer tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Pettysetg0 my goal is to travel all over the world trying food 🥹🤍 #alaska #cruise #alaskancruise #juneau #skagway #juneaualaska #skagwayalaska #skagwaybrewingcompany
@tallzz_
538.6K likes • 6.3M views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Hike from Cruise Ship

A short, scenic 15-30 min walk from the footbridge near the ships. Great views! Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

Grab food from local markets for a peaceful BBQ at the cove. Reddit

What are you going to do with your tomorrow? #skagwayalaska #cruisealaska #waterfalls #boatexcuriosn #princesscruises #norwegiancruise #celebritycruises #ncl #carnivalcruise #hollandamericaline #fyp #mustdo #fjord #whales #eagles #harborseal
@oceanraftalaska
18.3K likes • 150K views
SMUGGLER’S COVE, TORTOLA, BVI 🏝️ Hidden gem alert! 💎 Tucked away on the west end of Tortola, BVI lies Smuggler's Cove - a stunning, palm-fringed beach of white sand, crystal clear water, and dreamy views. 🌅 We made our first trek there last month and all we can say is WOW! To reach it, you'll need to travel down a bumpy road, but trust us, once you catch your first glance, you'll know the rid...
caribbean_soul_trekkers
41 likes • 1.7K views

👟 Not Stroller/Wheelchair Friendly

The trail has inclines and declines, best for sturdy footwear. Reddit

🚻 Well-stocked Restroom

Find a clean bathroom with essentials just before the trail split. Reddit

You can't beat a Sunday roast at Smuggler's Cove! 😋🍗 📹@the.karbdashian on Tiktok #mysecretliverpool . . . . . #liverpoolfood #liverpool #merseyside #liverpoolrestaurants
secret.liverpool
268 likes • 17.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy Hike from Cruise Ship

A short, scenic 15-30 min walk from the footbridge near the ships. Great views! Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

Grab food from local markets for a peaceful BBQ at the cove. Reddit

👟 Not Stroller/Wheelchair Friendly

The trail has inclines and declines, best for sturdy footwear. Reddit

🚻 Well-stocked Restroom

Find a clean bathroom with essentials just before the trail split. Reddit

🚢 Check Cruise Ship Schedule

Avoid peak times when multiple ships are docked for fewer crowds. TikTok

☀️ Alaska Isn't Always Cold

Pack layers; Skagway can be surprisingly mild even in shoulder seasons. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Smuggler's Cove is widely praised as a beautiful and peaceful natural spot, easily accessible via a short, scenic hike from the Skagway cruise port. Visitors love the tranquility, the lovely views, and the convenience of the picnic area. However, some note that it can get crowded, and the trail is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

"Great trail, worth the walk, and it’s free.

Tips:
1) Short walk from the cruise ship after passing the Skagway footbridge.
2) The route does have slight incline & decline as you get closer to the cove.
3) Great views, no crowds and very peaceful.
4) Not stroller or wheelchair friendly.
5) They have a picnic table and fire pit but be sure to read the sign before lighting the fire. 🔥
6) There’s bathroom just before the split towards Smugglers Cove. The essentials in the bathroom are nicely stocked for use.

We saw some muscles and seaweed by the cove."

Ashley L

"Amazing place. Grab some food and drinks from the local supermarket. Nice easy 20 minutes hike over the bridge near the ships and you're there. Peaceful and stunning. Enjoy a bbq in nature!"

Joshua “The world traveller”

"Great hike while cruise ship was in port! Took about 30 minutes to do the hike. Beautiful views and super easy to do even if you don’t hike a lot."

Kevin Dederick

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautiful natural views
Easy, scenic hike

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Not stroller/wheelchair friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Smuggler's Cove is accessible via a pleasant hike from the Skagway cruise port. After passing the Skagway footbridge, the trail is about 15-30 minutes long, leading through a forest with some inclines and declines. It's a popular walk for cruise passengers looking for a peaceful spot away from the main town. Reddit

Unfortunately, Smuggler's Cove is not stroller or wheelchair friendly. The trail involves inclines and declines, making it unsuitable for those with mobility challenges or for pushing strollers. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Reddit

Given the trail's terrain, if you have limited mobility, Smuggler's Cove might be challenging. Consider exploring the town of Skagway itself, or look into accessible shore excursions that offer scenic drives or boat tours, like those mentioned for whale watching or fjord exploration. TikTok

Taxis and ride-sharing services are not typically available or practical for reaching Smuggler's Cove directly due to its trail-based access. The primary method of arrival is by foot from the cruise port. Reddit

The walk to Smuggler's Cove typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes from the footbridge near the cruise ships. The exact time can vary depending on your pace and how crowded the trail is. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no fee required to access Smuggler's Cove. It's a free natural attraction for visitors to enjoy. Reddit

Smuggler's Cove is a natural outdoor area and does not have set operating hours. It is accessible during daylight hours when cruise ships are in port. However, be aware that in October, many shops and services in Skagway may be closed, limiting options. TikTok

You do not need to book a tour to visit Smuggler's Cove. It's a self-guided walk from the cruise port. However, booking tours is highly recommended if visiting in the shoulder season like October, as many businesses may be closed. TikTok

The main restriction is the trail's terrain, which is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Additionally, if you plan to use the fire pit, be sure to read and adhere to any posted signs regarding fire regulations. Reddit

If visiting in the off-season like early October, it's wise to book excursions in advance. If you find yourself with limited options, focus on natural attractions like Smuggler's Cove or the Gold Rush Cemetery, and enjoy the scenery. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At Smuggler's Cove, you can enjoy a peaceful walk, take in the beautiful views, relax by the water, and have a picnic. There's a picnic table and fire pit available, though you must check fire regulations before use. You might also spot muscles and seaweed along the shore. Reddit

Yes, there is a restroom located just before the split in the trail that leads towards Smuggler's Cove. The facilities are reported to be well-stocked and clean for visitor use. Reddit

While not guaranteed, visitors have reported seeing muscles and seaweed along the cove's shore. The surrounding forest and coastal environment offer opportunities for birdwatching as well. Reddit

Absolutely! Smuggler's Cove offers beautiful natural scenery, making it a great spot for photography. The peaceful atmosphere and coastal views provide excellent opportunities for capturing memorable shots. Reddit

It's recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, any food and drinks you plan to consume, and perhaps a camera. If you plan to use the fire pit, bring items to start a fire if permitted. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or food vendors directly at Smuggler's Cove. It's a natural area best enjoyed with a packed picnic. You can purchase food and drinks from local supermarkets in Skagway before heading to the cove. Reddit

Skagway offers several dining options. The Skagway Brewing Company is a popular choice for lunch, serving items like king crab lobster rolls. The Skagway Fish Company also offers seafood options. TikTok+1

Yes, there is a fire pit available at Smuggler's Cove, making it suitable for a BBQ. However, it's crucial to read the posted signs regarding fire regulations before lighting any fire. Reddit

When in Skagway, consider trying a king crab lobster roll or other seafood dishes. Sweet iced tea is also a popular beverage option. TikTok

Dining options may be limited in Skagway during October, as many businesses close for the season. It's advisable to check in advance or plan to bring your own food, especially if visiting during the early part of the month. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Smuggler's Cove offers picturesque views of the water and surrounding natural landscape. The peaceful atmosphere and coastal scenery make it ideal for capturing serene landscape shots. The trail leading to the cove also provides scenic photo opportunities. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography at Smuggler's Cove. This also coincides with times when crowds are typically lower, allowing for more unobstructed shots. Reddit

While Smuggler's Cove itself is the main attraction, the hike through the forest and the footbridge near the cruise port offer additional scenic elements for your photos. The Gold Rush Cemetery is also a nearby historical site that can be photographed. TikTok+1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the beauty of Smuggler's Cove. If you enjoy landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial to capture the expansive views. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary, especially in port areas. It's advisable to check local regulations and any posted signage regarding drone operation before flying in the vicinity of Smuggler's Cove or Skagway. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Smuggler's Cove offers a gentle introduction to Alaska's natural beauty for families. The hike is relatively short and manageable for most children, provided they have sturdy footwear. The picnic area and fire pit offer a fun spot for a family meal amidst nature. Reddit

However, parents should be aware that the trail is not stroller or wheelchair accessible, so younger toddlers might need to be carried. For longer excursions, consider the White Pass train ride, but be mindful of the 3-hour duration for very young children. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers

For those who enjoy a bit of walking, the hike to Smuggler's Cove is a perfect, low-commitment option. The trail offers a pleasant forest walk with some inclines, providing a light workout with rewarding views. It's a great way to stretch your legs after being on a cruise ship. Reddit

Beyond the cove, Skagway offers more strenuous hiking opportunities and scenic excursions like boat tours through fjords, which are highly recommended for experiencing Alaska's dramatic landscapes and wildlife. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Smuggler's Cove provides a serene backdrop for photographers. The natural beauty of the cove, the surrounding forest, and the coastal waters offer ample opportunities for landscape and nature shots. The soft light during early mornings and late afternoons can enhance your photographs. Reddit

Consider capturing the journey along the trail, the details of the natural environment, and the expansive views from the cove itself. The nearby Gold Rush Cemetery also presents unique historical photography subjects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Smuggler's Cove Hike

The journey to Smuggler's Cove is an integral part of the experience. Described as a 'great trail' and a 'nice easy 20 minutes hike,' it's a popular choice for cruise passengers looking for a quick escape into nature. The path begins shortly after crossing the footbridge near the Skagway cruise ships. It winds through a forest, offering a pleasant contrast to the bustling port town. While generally considered easy, reviewers note that the trail does have slight inclines and declines as you approach the cove, making it less suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the peacefulness and lack of crowds, especially if they time their visit strategically. The hike is often completed within 30 minutes, leaving ample time for other Skagway activities. The well-maintained trail and the anticipation of reaching the secluded cove add to the overall enjoyment of this accessible natural attraction. Reddit

Picnicking and Amenities at the Cove

Smuggler's Cove is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed outdoor meal. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, often sourced from local supermarkets in Skagway, to enjoy a BBQ in a scenic setting. This self-sufficient approach allows for a truly immersive nature experience. Reddit

While the amenities are basic, they are well-appreciated by those seeking a tranquil escape. It's important to note that before using the fire pit, visitors must read and adhere to any posted signs regarding fire regulations. This ensures the safety and preservation of the natural environment. Additionally, a conveniently located restroom with essential supplies is available just before the trail splits towards the cove, adding to the comfort of visitors. Reddit

Skagway's Cruise Port Charm

Skagway is a quintessential Alaskan cruise port, rich with Gold Rush history and stunning natural beauty. Many visitors arrive via cruise ships, and Smuggler's Cove is just one of many attractions accessible from the port. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is another iconic experience, offering scenic journeys into the mountains, though its 3-hour duration might be a consideration for families with very young children. TikTokReddit

Beyond natural sites, Skagway offers historical exploration, such as the Gold Rush Cemetery, and opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine. Restaurants like the Skagway Brewing Company and Skagway Fish Company provide a taste of local flavors, including king crab. However, it's worth noting that during the shoulder seasons, like October, many shops and tours may have limited availability, making pre-booking excursions a wise decision. TikTok+1

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