Upper Dewey Lake
A strenuous but rewarding hike to a breathtaking alpine lake near Skagway, Alaska, offering stunning panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & cruise ship rush
Upper Dewey Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds & cruise ship rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A strenuous but rewarding hike to a breathtaking alpine lake near Skagway, Alaska, offering stunning panoramic views.
"The view does not disappoint! Pretty steep incline but totally worth it."
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots Essential
Crucial for navigating the steep and potentially wet Upper Dewey Lake trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is a strenuous hike; stay hydrated and fueled for the ascent and descent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Dewey Lake
Alpine lake at 3,100 feet
A stunning alpine lake offering breathtaking panoramic views after a challenging but rewarding hike.
+1
Devil's Punch Bowl
Near Upper Dewey Lake
An extension of the Upper Dewey Lake hike, this spot offers more dramatic scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
+1Lower Reid Falls & Gold Rush Cemetery
Base of the Upper Dewey Trail
A scenic stop on the way to or from the main hike, featuring a beautiful waterfall and historical cemetery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Upper Dewey Lake Trail
Gear Up for a Challenging but Rewarding Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots Essential
Crucial for navigating the steep and potentially wet Upper Dewey Lake trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is a strenuous hike; stay hydrated and fueled for the ascent and descent.
⏰ Allow Ample Time for Hike
Factor in 4-6 hours round trip, plus buffer time to return to your cruise ship.
📸 Best Photo Ops on Rocks
The rocks near the lake offer the most iconic and stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots Essential
Crucial for navigating the steep and potentially wet Upper Dewey Lake trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is a strenuous hike; stay hydrated and fueled for the ascent and descent.
⏰ Allow Ample Time for Hike
Factor in 4-6 hours round trip, plus buffer time to return to your cruise ship.
📸 Best Photo Ops on Rocks
The rocks near the lake offer the most iconic and stunning photo opportunities.
🏊 Jump in the Lake!
The water is surprisingly refreshing after the challenging hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Upper Dewey Lake, calling the hike challenging but incredibly rewarding. The stunning alpine scenery and refreshing lake waters make it a memorable experience, with many recommending it as a must-do in Skagway. Some note the steepness of the trail and the importance of proper footwear and hydration.
"Very amazing place its take about 3 hours hike the trail not so bad even you’re beginners but make sure you have a professional hikers with your team and the view is very amazing it’s start with the stunning river and water falls and beautiful scenery around you at least one a lifetime precious memories can hike one of beautiful places in Alaska ❤️ water is important and some snack bar for energy and stay hidrate and waterproof shoes is recommended"
Engken Kabar
"If you enjoy trekking or have a passion for adventure then it’s a must go !!!"
Mohammad Rayyan
"Wow, I believed I would not make it to the top as it was very steep, from lower lake took us 1.5 hrs to reach to this magical lake. Not busy, stunning landscape. Water was not as cold as expected, so a jump in the water was a must and very needed after all the hiking."
bRi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Upper Dewey Lake trail is accessible directly from the Skagway cruise port, making it a convenient option for cruise ship passengers. It's about a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike one way, with a significant elevation gain.
While the trailhead is walkable from the cruise port, some visitors opt for taxis or local shuttles if they prefer not to walk the initial distance. However, many find the walk part of the experience.
The Upper Dewey Lake trail is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) one way, with a strenuous elevation gain of around 3,000 feet (945 meters).
Driving directly to the trailhead is not typically recommended or feasible for most visitors, especially cruise ship passengers. The hike is designed to be accessed from Skagway town.
Yes, several local tour operators in Skagway offer guided hikes to Upper Dewey Lake, which can be beneficial for those seeking a more informed experience or who prefer not to hike independently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to access the Upper Dewey Lake trail. It is a public hiking area.
The trail is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, winter conditions can make the trail impassable or dangerous without proper winter hiking gear and experience.
Parking is generally not an issue as most visitors walk from town or the cruise port. If you were to drive, street parking in Skagway might be available but is not guaranteed.
No specific permits are required for day hiking on the Upper Dewey Lake trail. However, if you plan any overnight stays in the backcountry, permits might be necessary.
It is highly recommended to book guided hikes in advance, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Upper Dewey Lake trail is considered strenuous due to its steep incline and significant elevation gain. It's suitable for experienced hikers or determined beginners with good fitness.
Expect a diverse landscape including lush forests, rushing waterfalls (like Lower Reid Falls), and eventually, a stunning alpine lake with panoramic mountain views.
The trail is generally well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a map or GPS device, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main lake area.
Restroom facilities are typically limited to the trailhead area. It's advisable to use facilities before starting your hike.
Yes, many visitors take a refreshing dip in Upper Dewey Lake after the hike, finding the water invigorating despite its alpine temperature.
📸 📸 Photography
The rocks surrounding the lake offer the most dramatic and iconic photo opportunities. The views on the way up, especially near waterfalls, are also spectacular.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show aerial shots,
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting, with golden hour casting a warm glow. However, the dramatic scenery is impressive throughout the day.
The area around the lake itself provides the most expansive views. Look for elevated spots on the rocks for the best vantage points.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing waterfall motion.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting Lower Reid Falls and the Gold Rush Cemetery as a more family-friendly alternative or as a shorter activity before or after attempting a portion of the Upper Dewey Lake trail. These spots offer historical interest and natural beauty without the extreme exertion.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchasing them in Skagway. Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are a must, but you can avoid the expense of buying new gear if you already own suitable footwear. Walking from the cruise port to the trailhead also saves on transportation costs.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Consider joining a guided hike if you prefer company or want to learn more about the local flora and fauna from an experienced guide.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Upper Dewey Lake Trail: A Skagway Gem
Elevation gain is significant, around 3,000 feet over 2.5 miles, so proper preparation is key. Visitors often recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots due to the terrain and potential for wet conditions, especially near the waterfalls. Bringing ample water and snacks is also crucial for maintaining energy throughout the trek. Despite the challenge, the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the lake after the hike is a popular and invigorating experience for many.
For those looking to extend their adventure, the trail can be continued to Devil's Punch Bowl, offering even more dramatic vistas. This extension adds to the overall distance and elevation, making it a more demanding option for seasoned hikers. The accessibility from the Skagway cruise port makes it a popular choice for day-trippers seeking an active and memorable Alaskan experience.
+1Navigating Skagway's Cruise Port Excursions
Beyond hiking, Skagway offers other attractions like the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls, which can be combined with a shorter hike or visited independently. Foodies might enjoy local spots like Skagway Brewing Company for a taste of Alaskan brews and fare.
When planning your day in Skagway, it's essential to consider the time constraints of your cruise ship schedule. The Upper Dewey Lake trail requires a significant time commitment, so ensure you allocate enough hours to complete the hike and return to the ship comfortably.
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