Considering White Pass Scenic Railway - weather concerns

Question

We cruise next month (Princess) and stop in Skagway along the way. The White Pass Scenic Railway looks inviting but some research has me concerned about the weather preventing the scenic views, which is the main marketing point of this excursion. We did a Yosemite tour once and even though the tour operator knew about the fires, they took us anyway and we could not see anything. This is different of course - no one can do anything about the weather. I'm just trying to determine if the reviews are spot-on and it's 50-50 shot as to whether you can see anything, or get some different viewpoints. Some complain about windows being fogged up...you never know what to believe.

Alternatively, I would invite views on other excursions in Skagway that are recommended. We can book the railway tour either with Princess or through another operator.

Answer

The White Pass Scenic Railway is one of Skagway’s most popular excursions, offering dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and historic sites along the route to White Pass Summit. It’s important to recognize that, like any outdoor excursion in Alaska, the experience is weather-dependent. Skagway weather in the summer is generally mild but can be unpredictable with rain, fog, or low clouds, which may partially obscure some views. Many passengers report that even on overcast days the scenery is still impressive, but peak visibility and photographic conditions are best on clear days.

Regarding specific concerns:

Windows fogging: Some of the older train cars can have condensation on the windows, especially in cooler or humid conditions. Newer or upgraded cars have better ventilation, but a little fogging may still occur. Choosing a seat on the side opposite direct sun or near the open-air sections (if offered) can help.
50/50 visibility: While some reviews suggest mixed results due to weather, most passengers find the views worthwhile even if clouds are present. The dramatic landscapes and engineering feats of the railway (trestles, tunnels) are visible even in partial fog.
Booking through Princess vs. other operators: Booking directly through the cruise line ensures coordination with ship timing and usually a guaranteed seat, but booking through local operators can provide more flexible departure times or smaller groups, which some travelers prefer.

Alternative excursions in Skagway that are highly recommended include:

Lyell Glacier or Gold Rush trail hikes: Guided hikes provide immersive scenery with fewer crowds and more personal interaction with guides.
Ziplining adventures: Several operators offer zipline tours through rainforest canopies and river valleys, providing different perspectives of the landscape.
Historic town tours and gold panning: Walking tours of Skagway’s historic district with optional gold panning offer a combination of history, culture, and light outdoor activity.
Kayaking or small boat tours: These provide a water-based view of the surrounding fjords, glaciers, and wildlife, which can be a nice alternative if the weather on the mountains is poor.

In summary, while weather can affect how much you see from the White Pass Scenic Railway, the majority of travelers find the trip worthwhile regardless. Choosing the right seating, possibly considering an open-air car, and managing expectations about visibility will help you enjoy the experience. If you prefer a backup plan or different perspective, combining the train ride with a shorter local hike or water excursion in Skagway can give you flexibility in case the weather isn’t ideal.

Considering White Pass Scenic Railway - weather concerns

More Skagway Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions