White Pass Summit
Ride a historic Gold Rush-era train through stunning Alaskan wilderness, past glaciers and gorges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
White Pass Summit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic Gold Rush-era train through stunning Alaskan wilderness, past glaciers and gorges.
"The views were unreal and the train was comfortable. Loved being able to stand between cars for amazing pix!"
🎯 Stand on the open platforms!
For the best views and photos, spend time on the open-air platforms at the front or back of the train cars.
🧥 Dress in layers
The summit can be significantly colder and windier than Skagway. Bring a jacket!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad
Skagway, Alaska
Ride a vintage train through breathtaking gorges, past glaciers, and over historic gold rush trails.
Yukon Suspension Bridge
White Pass Summit
Experience thrilling views from this suspension bridge, offering a unique perspective of the rugged landscape.
Gold Rush History
Along the White Pass Trail
Learn about the daring Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 and the challenges faced by prospectors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Adventure: Train vs. Bus
Embrace the Elements & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stand on the open platforms!
For the best views and photos, spend time on the open-air platforms at the front or back of the train cars. +1
🧥 Dress in layers
The summit can be significantly colder and windier than Skagway. Bring a jacket!
💰 Bus tours are cheaper
Consider a bus tour for a similar scenic experience at a lower cost, often including stops like the suspension bridge.
💧 Water is provided
Stay hydrated on your journey; water bottles are available during the train ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stand on the open platforms!
For the best views and photos, spend time on the open-air platforms at the front or back of the train cars. +1
🧥 Dress in layers
The summit can be significantly colder and windier than Skagway. Bring a jacket!
💰 Bus tours are cheaper
Consider a bus tour for a similar scenic experience at a lower cost, often including stops like the suspension bridge.
💧 Water is provided
Stay hydrated on your journey; water bottles are available during the train ride.
📸 Capture epic shots
The scenery is stunning! Don't forget your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the White Pass Summit for its breathtaking scenery, rich gold rush history, and the unique experience of riding a vintage train. Many highlight the opportunity to stand on open-air platforms for unparalleled views and photo opportunities. While the train is a beloved experience, some find bus tours a more budget-friendly alternative that still offers spectacular vistas and access to attractions like the Yukon Suspension Bridge.
"Agreed with all other reviews. Very cool, informative historic train highlighting the gold rush and the amazing Klondike trail. The views were unreal and the train was comfortable. Loved being able to stand between cars on the outside and get some amazing pix and videos. Recommended!"
Mike Azran
"We were on am Oceania cruise to this location. 6 of our group went on the train. Was a great experience and took about 3 hours. Great evening views. My brother in law and I stayed on the platform from the station until we did the loop at the top. No one else in our car was going to the front or back platform. The view is completely different on the platform versus in the cart. Highly recommend going on the platform for at least a few minutes. Highly recommend going on this scenic train tour."
Justin Berger
"Visited in June 2025. This is one of the excursions I chose from the cruise. There was an adult only car available, so I chose that one. Before the train ride, I was not aware you could hang out outside the train car in the front or the back of your car, so this was really cool. I did not sit in my seat for most of the ride. There were water bottles available if you get thirsty. The views of nature are really great, and I recommend doing this train ride."
Josh H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to experience the White Pass Summit is via the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, which departs from Skagway. Alternatively, bus tours also depart from Skagway and follow a similar scenic route.
The White Pass Summit is primarily accessed from Skagway. If you are visiting Juneau, you would need to travel to Skagway first, typically by ferry or cruise ship.
Yes, you can drive to the White Pass Summit via the Klondike Highway. However, many visitors opt for guided tours to learn about the history and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.
The summit is approximately 20 miles (32 km) from Skagway. The train journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach the summit.
Yes, several tour operators offer excursions that combine the White Pass Summit with the Yukon Suspension Bridge, often via bus or a combination of bus and train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Train tickets for the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad can be around $150 per person, with child tickets priced lower. Bus tours are a more affordable option, often around $60 per person. Prices can vary by operator and season.
Tickets can be purchased directly from the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad website, through your cruise line as a shore excursion, or via third-party tour operators like GetYourGuide. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The typical cruise ship shore excursion for the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway is about 2.75 hours, with the train ride itself lasting approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to the summit.
Yes, you can choose between the classic White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad, bus tours that may include the Yukon Suspension Bridge, or combined tours. Some tours offer adult-only cars for a more relaxed experience. +1
It is highly recommended to book your White Pass Summit excursion in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak summer season or on a cruise, as popular tours sell out quickly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The entire route offers stunning views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Standing on the open-air platforms of the train provides a unique and immersive perspective. +1
The standard train excursion typically does not allow passengers to disembark at the summit for extended exploration. However, some bus tours offer stops at viewpoints like the Yukon Suspension Bridge.
The White Pass Summit is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,292 feet (1,003 meters).
Yes, the White Pass Summit excursions are generally family-friendly. Children can enjoy the scenic ride and learn about the history. Some tours offer child-specific pricing.
The White Pass Summit was a crucial part of the Klondike Gold Rush trail in 1898, connecting Skagway to the Yukon Territory. The railroad was built to overcome the challenging terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air platforms on the train offer incredible, unobstructed views. Look for dramatic mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and the historic gold rush trails.
While the open platforms are ideal, be mindful of wind and other passengers. The train moves, so practice your panning technique for sharp images.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and sensitive ecological areas. It's best to check current regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, while morning can offer clearer skies and fewer crowds. The dramatic lighting can enhance the rugged scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for a bus tour that includes stops at viewpoints like the Yukon Suspension Bridge, as this can provide more opportunities for kids to stretch their legs and experience the landscape actively. Ensure children are dressed warmly in layers, as the summit can be quite chilly. Many tours offer child-friendly pricing, making it a more accessible option for family travel.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
These bus tours still provide access to the incredible scenery and historical context of the White Pass region, and many include visits to attractions like the Yukon Suspension Bridge. Researching different tour operators and comparing prices can help you find the best value for your White Pass Summit tour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: A Historic Journey
+1As the train ascends, you'll traverse dramatic gorges, pass by cascading waterfalls, and witness glaciers clinging to rugged mountain slopes. The narration provided during the journey offers fascinating insights into the lives of the gold seekers and the challenges they faced. Many travelers rave about the ability to stand on the open-air platforms at the front or rear of the cars, providing unparalleled views and photo opportunities that are simply not possible from inside the carriage.
This iconic White Pass Summit excursion is a highlight for many visitors to Skagway. Whether you choose the full train experience or a bus tour that covers similar ground, the breathtaking scenery and rich history make it an unforgettable adventure. It's a testament to the spirit of exploration and the enduring allure of the Alaskan wilderness.
Beyond the Train: Bus Tours and the Yukon Suspension Bridge
+1A significant advantage of some bus tours is the inclusion of stops at key attractions like the Yukon Suspension Bridge. This thrilling attraction allows visitors to walk across a bridge suspended over a deep gorge, offering a unique and exhilarating perspective of the valley below. These tours often allow for more flexibility, with opportunities to disembark at various viewpoints for photos and exploration, which can be more limited on the train.
+1For those seeking a comprehensive White Pass Summit and Yukon Suspension Bridge experience without the higher cost of the train, a guided bus tour is an excellent option. It provides a well-rounded adventure that captures the essence of the White Pass region, combining historical context with natural beauty and a touch of adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit