Skagway in December
Not the best time
December is deep winter in Skagway with harsh conditions and minimal tourist infrastructure. Only come if you're chasing northern lights or have unavoidable business here.
Weather
December brings full winter conditions with heavy snow, sub-freezing temperatures, and very short daylight hours - sunrise after 9 AM and sunset before 4 PM. Blizzards are possible and wind chill can be dangerous.
-4°C high-11°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$90/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Local Christmas celebrations
- •New Year's Eve community events
December Tips
- •Bring Arctic-grade winter clothing if you must visit
- •Most businesses operate on limited winter schedules or close entirely
- •Book accommodation well ahead as few places stay open year-round
All Months
Summer is your only real option — May through September, with July and August being peak season. The cruise ships arrive daily from May to September, turning quiet Skagway into a temporary city of 5,000 people. July brings 18-hour days and temperatures in the 60s, perfect for hiking and train rides. August offers the warmest weather but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. June and September mean fewer tourists, lower hotel rates, and shoulder-season charm, though some attractions run limited schedules. Winter in Skagway is beautiful but brutal — most businesses close, temperatures drop below zero, and you'll need serious cold-weather gear. The Northern Lights appear from October through March, but you'll be one of maybe 200 people in town to see them. Spring comes late and muddy; snow often lingers into May on the mountain passes.
Skagway Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
5/10
Luxury
4/10
BUILD YOUR SKAGWAY PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.