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White Pass and Yukon Railroad

by Arie Boris, CruiseGourmet.com Editor-in-Chief

In 1896, a few flakes of gold were discovered in the Klondike and by 1897 the modest find had sparked the Klondike gold rush. Thousands of gold crazy men and women steamed up the inland passage to Skagway, Alaska for the climb up to the “fields of Gold” in the Yukon. The idea of a railroad to scale the steep ascent was born and construction started within months. Within a year of construction the Gold rush was over and the railroad served the area and contributed to its growth for over a century.

Today, WP&YR provides highly acclaimed, narrated scenic rail excursions to over 400,000 tourists every year, operating on the first 40 miles (Skagway, Alaska to Bennett, B.C.) of the original 110 mile line which terminates in Whitehorse, Yukon. From Skagway Alaska, passengers can enjoy half and full day excursions or take a rail-motorcoach transfer between Skagway and Whitehorse. Passengers ride in comfortable restored railroad coaches pulled by vintage steam and diesel locomotive power. The WP&YR is a unique and genuine scenic and historical experience that symbolizes accomplishment in adventure and pioneering — of triumph over challenge.

Experience the historic 1898 narrow gauge Klondike gold rush railroad and breathtaking terrain during a port call in Skagway Alaska. Sky-high trestles, tunnels, cascading waterfalls, spectacular scenery and the occasional bear sighting make this a memorable railroad adventure. For more information visit www.wpyr.com.

Skagway Alaska is located at the northern tip of Alaska’s famous Inside Passage. Skagway is a unique frontier community featuring wooden boardwalks and a seven-block-long historic district known as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park where turn-of-the-century shops and saloons are still open for business. Boardwalk sidewalks, period costume and great shopping characterize this town of 800. See www.skagway.org.