Skagway in November
Not the best time
November marks the beginning of Skagway's long winter sleep. The town largely shuts down for tourists and weather conditions become challenging for casual visitors.
Weather
November plunges Skagway into winter with freezing temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and the first significant snowfalls. Rain transitions to snow as temperatures drop and stay below freezing most of the time. Wind chill becomes a factor.
1°C high-6°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$85/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Thanksgiving local celebrations
November Tips
- •Most tourist attractions and many restaurants close for winter
- •Rent proper winter gear if you don't own any
- •Consider this a locals-only season unless you have specific business
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
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