FAQs
The railroad uses low sulfur fuel and has recently completed a refurbishment of our historic locomotives in a move to increase fuel efficiency. In addition, we have purchased six new locomotives in 2020 that will far surpass fuel efficiency and emission standards of the current fleet. We have ensured that all newly acquired maintenance of way equipment remains Tier 4 compliant. Two additional locomotives will be added to the fleet in the next two years.
In an effort towards constant improvement we are always looking for ways to reduce our impact on the environment in safe, sustainable, and appropriate ways. We have installed refillable water stations in our depot as well as promoting reusable water bottles to encourage their use. Boxed or aluminum water bottles will be replacing plastic bottles aboard all of our trains.
These large investments and small steps toward a more sustainable and greener railroad will promote a healthier company throughout the regions we travel.
For more information on the Adventure Green Alaska program and the list of participating Alaska Tourism businesses, please visit www.adventuregreenalaska.org/aga-businesses.
The White Pass & Yukon Route is truly the railway born out of the Klondike Gold Rush. As the news of the gold strike captivated North America in the late 1890’s, the lure to travel north to Alaska and the Yukon inspired many to follow in the footsteps of the tens of thousands that set their sights on finding their fortune in the now famous Klondike region outside of Dawson City, YT. Through this fascination, a piece of the Alaska and Yukon tourism industry was born.
The spirit of adventure and building of the north is captured during each ride along the historic line and we hope to inspire each passenger to learn more about the Klondike Gold Rush, while sharing stories of the men and women that conquered the mountains. Click here to learn more about our excursion offerings.
Via Alaska – Skagway is accessible through Juneau, Alaska. Major airlines like Alaska and Delta fly into the capital city throughout the summer. Once in Juneau, a short walk across the airport takes you to our commuter airline, Alaska Seaplanes. They have daily service to Skagway and makes for the most efficient way to get in and out of town. The train depot is only a 10-minute walk from the Skagway Airport.
Via Yukon Territory – Skagway is also accessible via Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. Yukon’s official airline is Air North. They operate daily service from Vancouver, BC to the capital of the territory. Other airline options include Air Canada and WestJet. From Whitehorse, Skagway is a 2-hour drive along an incredibly scenic stretch of the South Klondike Highway. White Pass hosts bus service from our downtown depot. Daily service to Carcross, YT or Fraser, BC with train connections from either point is a great way to enjoy a highway and rail tour on your way to Skagway. Rental cars are also available at the Whitehorse airport. Plan to overnight in Skagway because once the cruise ships leave town in the evening, the whole town is yours!
Family & Friends
A trip on the train is the perfect way to disconnect to reconnect with family and friends that are along for the ride. Cell reception drops off a few miles out of Skagway so you are set for a blissful, uninterrupted excursion to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Finally you have the chance to live in the moment with those you brought on tour with you.
Fully charged camera or phone
Though you will not have reception during most of the ride, we encourage you to make sure that the phone battery is fully charged. Picture opportunities abound during your entire trip. We pride ourselves on having some of the cleanest rail car windows in Alaska to ensure you get the clearest photos. We also welcome guests to take in the sights from the platforms at either end of their railcars. It is the perfect way to immerse yourself in your surroundings.
A cell phone tether or strap
You will want to hold on to that phone or camera around each bend in the tracks as the scenery reveals itself.
Layers!
All rail departures will take you from tidewater to almost 3,000 ft in elevation. Temperatures can vary from Skagway to the summit, so we recommend dressing in layers. While each train car is heated with an oil stove, you will want to throw on a jacket or sweatshirt when heading out to the platforms for better viewing.
Sunglasses
The days get long in Southeast Alaska, even when you are traveling during the early part of the summer season. We expect snow at the higher elevations during the month of May and around the summit of the pass. Light reflecting off the pure white snow can be blinding. Bring your shades so you do not miss a minute of scenery.
All Aboard Magazine
As you board the train, there will be handy booklet on your seat to help guide you through the trip. The back cover unfolds to reveal a rail map with points of interests and photo opportunities. It is a great tool to use while following along with our tour guide. You will notice each site is marked by a milepost number. Be on the lookout to the left-hand side of the train for orange mile maker signs indicating where you are relative to the map.
A curiosity for our history
Your guides and All Aboard Magazine are chocked full of interesting history and stories from the Klondike Gold Rush, construction of the railroad and what life is like in Alaska. Ask questions! Our job is to share all we can about the railroad during the trip. Don’t let an opportunity to talk with our guides or train crew as they walk through the cars pass you by.
Your sense of Adventure
The railroad was built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush. You had to be brave and willing to put it all on the line to make your way north in search of your fortune. We ask all passengers to take that adventurous spirit and immerse themselves in the trip.Join us for an unforgettable trip during your visit to Alaska or the Yukon, justc1 don’t forget to follow our tips for the perfect train ride!
