Skagway
Skagway was the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush—20,000 people passed through in 1898 alone. Contro
State: Alaska
County: Skagway Municipality
Founded: 1897
Peak Population: 20,000
Skagway was the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush—20,000 people passed through in 1898 alone. Controlled by infamous con man Soapy Smith until he was killed in a shootout. Now a cruise ship destination with the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park preserving its history.
Timeline
- 1897 - Founding Town established as gateway to Chilkoot and White Pass trails.
- 1898 - Peak 20,000 people passed through during Klondike Gold Rush.
- 1898 - Soapy Smith Era Con man Soapy Smith controlled town through violence.
- July 8, 1898 - Soapy Smith Killed Shot in famous shootout with Frank Reid.
- 1900 - Railroad White Pass & Yukon Route completed.
- 1976 - National Park Klondike Gold Rush NHP established.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: May-September (cruise season)
Difficulty: Easy - major cruise port
Time Needed: Half to full day
Tips
- White Pass & Yukon Route railroad still runs
- Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
- Soapy Smith's grave outside town
- Major cruise ship destination
Quick Facts
- 20,000 prospectors passed through in 1898 alone
- Con man Soapy Smith controlled town until killed in 1898
- Gateway to both Chilkoot and White Pass trails
- White Pass railroad still operates as tourist excursion
Location
Address: Skagway, Alaska
Coordinates: 59.4583, -135.3139