What to do in Skagway & Juneau??

Question

I'm taking my 11yr old daughter on an Alaska cruise next August. We have a day in Juneau and a day in Skagway (also one in Prince Rupert, BC)... the excursions are VERY pricy...and I'm thinking there's probably tons we could do on our own. Any suggestions? What are the must-see's of these places? I'd love to see wildlife or cultural stuff we don't see in the continental states. I live in Washington, so I know the scenery isnt' TOO much different... suggestions????

Answer 1

I live in Haines (on Lynn Canal between Juneau and Skagway). Most cruise ships don't stop in Haines, because they would prefer you to shop in the gift shops owned by the cruise ship companies in Juneau and Skagway. An excursion to Dyea from Skagway is worthwhile, the trainride in Skagway is fun, the town of Skagway itself is very interesting, but way too crowded during cruise ship season. I recommend getting on Chilkat Cruises Fast Ferry in Skagway and head to Haines. You'll be here in the late Summer, so we'll have some eagle viewing. You can take tours to see brown bears on Chilkoot River. You can also go up the highway a few miles (you can book tours and transportation at the visitors center in Haines or the folks that run the fast ferry can help you out) and go to Kroschel Films Wildlife Center. Kroschel trains wild animals for films and has all sorts of critters to see and runs a great tour. Also, you can see Tlingit (native) Chilkat Dancers. Their show is less than $10/per person and very entertaining. The ferry ride shouldn't cost more than $30 a piece one way. I'm not sure how much the tour up to Kroschel's is, but whatever it is, it is worth it. Don't book your tours through the cruise company. It will cost more. When you get off the ship at different ports, people from the actual tour companies congregate and can make you much better deals in person. When you're in Juneau, try the zip line tour, Thane Orr House Salmon Bake, and go over to Douglas Island and hike the Treadwell Trail. Anyways, enjoy your trip. Here is the website for Kroschel: www.alaska-e.com/kroschgetthere.html. This is the site for the fast ferry from Skagway to Haines: http://www.chilkatcruises.com/faqs.htm.

Answer 2

once you flow, look into the timber for tiny white specks. those "golfing balls" of the forrest are bald eagles, some thing uncommon to verify up close yet breathtaking once you do. one element that I notably reccommend traveling is an Alaskan raptor middle. There, they help take care of birds of prey (falcons, bald eagles, etc.) and supply you spectacular information approximately them. in case you get the prospect, trip the Tramway in Juneau. this is only between the particularly cool issues you're able to do there. There are a ton of neat little shops and a few great eating places (attempt the halibut.) i've got been white water rafting in freezing chilly water even regardless of the undeniable fact that this is properly worth it once you get to verify the glaciers up close. There additionally are numerous nature excursions yet do no longer forget approximately your binoculars! There are a pair places that grant information and excursion sites in regards to the Gold Rush and Skagway particularly has a gold rush cementary. once you're at a loss at to what to do at a particular end, ask the locals or cruise deliver administrators. Alaska is magnificent and that i'm particular you're transforming into a great time. Juneau supplies a lot to do, Skagway has a eye-catching environment and friendly people, Tracy Arm Fjord has some great glacier excursions, Prince Rupert is a sizable fishing city, so this is the place you need to attempt the halibut! (even regardless of the undeniable fact that, in case you choose for to fish, you need to have a license.) (Oh...and p.s.- Your inner clock is going to be way off whack, so do no longer forget approximately to placed on a watch!) have relaxing!

Answer 3

I live in Juneau. I recoment taking a tour of the Mendenhal Glacier and taking a trip up Mt. Roberts on the tram. You'll easily be able to find the information about how to get those tours when you get off the boat. My cousins boyfriend owns a tour company here. Email me if you want more information. [e-mail]