Ditch the Train, Drive the Dream: Your Best Day Ever in Skagway

Skagway, Alaska – a charming Gold Rush town that often serves as a highlight on Alaskan cruise itineraries. While the iconic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a popular choice, if your cruise grants you a full day in port (say, 10-12 hours), I'm here to tell you there's an even more incredible way to experience this breathtaking region: rent a car and drive to Carcross in the Yukon Territory!

Trust me, trading the train tracks for the open road, especially behind the wheel of a sturdy 4Runner or Jeep (though any car will do!), unlocks an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery and a taste of Canadian charm.

Easy Breezy Rental: Stepping off the ship, you'll find that renting a car in Skagway is surprisingly straightforward. Avis is conveniently located, making the process quick and efficient. A few signatures, a quick walkaround, and you'll be ready to embark on your Yukon adventure. The best part? Crossing the US-Canada border is seamless for most visitors, just be sure to have your passport or other required identification handy. The rental agreement will likely outline any specific rules for taking the vehicle into Canada, but generally, it's a simple process.

Pro tip: The line at the Avis does get long first thing in the morning. Have the assigned driver with all the paperwork ready to get off the ship first thing to pick up the vehicle.

The Scenic Spectacle Begins: Forget being confined to the railway tracks; with your own wheels, you can stop whenever and wherever the scenery takes your breath away – and trust me, that will happen often! The drive to Carcross is a visual feast, winding through majestic mountains, alongside pristine lakes, and past cascading waterfalls. Here are some must-stop locations along the way:

• The Scenic Overlooks: Numerous pull-offs along the Klondike Highway offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers clinging to their slopes, and the deep valleys below. Take your time, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and capture some postcard-worthy photos.

• Tormented Valley & Summit Lake: As you make your way past the White Pass, you'll enter the Tormented Valley, an area of otherworldly, twisted trees and rocky terrain. This surreal landscape is best appreciated with a photo stop at Summit Lake, a beautiful body of water framed by mountains that perfectly reflects the wild, desolate beauty of the valley.

• Tutshi Lake: This stunning lake stretches along the highway, its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the towering mountains. Find a safe spot to pull over and simply admire the view. You might even spot some wildlife!

• Emerald Lake (also known as Spirit Lake): Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant hues of this aptly named lake. Its emerald-green color is caused by the reflection of white marl deposits on the lakebed. It's a photographer's paradise!

• Bove Island Viewpoint: Offering another perspective of Emerald Lake, this viewpoint provides a fantastic opportunity to appreciate its unique coloring and the surrounding landscape.

Welcome to Carcross: Poutine and Yukon Vibes: Approximately an hour's drive from Skagway (not accounting for your scenic stops), you'll arrive in the charming village of Carcross, Yukon. This historic community on the shores of Bennett Lake offers a taste of Canadian hospitality and history.

• Carcross Desert: Yes, you read that right! One of the world's smallest deserts, the Carcross Desert is a unique and unexpected landscape of sand dunes formed by the drying of a large glacial lake. Take a stroll and marvel at this unusual phenomenon.

• Carcross Commons: Explore this area featuring local artisan shops and the famous Matthew Watson General Store, a historic landmark.

• The Bistro: And now, for the culinary highlight (at least for some!): head to one of the local eateries – you're in Canada, so a bistro serving delicious poutine is a must! Pair it with a refreshing Yukon beer for the full experience. It's the perfect way to refuel after your scenic drive.

Back to Skagway, Still Time to Explore: After soaking in the beauty and flavors of Carcross, the drive back to Skagway is just as stunning. Depending on your pace, you'll likely return with a few hours to spare before your ship departs. This is the perfect opportunity to still wander down Skagway's historic Broadway Street, browse the shops, and perhaps grab a final Alaskan treat. You won't feel like you missed out on the town's charm at all!

The Verdict: While the White Pass train is undoubtedly a classic Skagway experience, renting a car and driving to Carcross offers a level of freedom and access to breathtaking scenery that the train simply can't match. The ease of renting a vehicle, the smooth border crossing, and the incredible sights along the way make it an unforgettable adventure. So, on your next Alaskan cruise with a full day in Skagway, consider ditching the tracks and hitting the road for your best day ever! Just imagine yourself cruising along those mountain roads in a comfortable SUV, stopping at will to soak in the majestic views – it's an experience you won't soon forget.