What to do in Juneau and Skagway?

[cydspal]

On the Diamond next week....We are doing Capt. Larry in Juneau (done by 3pm, ship leaves at 10pm) and Temsco Helicopter/Dog Sled (done by 2pm, ship leaves at 9pm) in Skagway. Any other suggestions for must-do excursions with our balance of free time? [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]

[Budget Queen]

I responded elsewhere??? Have plans before you go- don't waste time in port deciding. Suggestions were a rental car in Skagway- National Park Visitor Center, hiking, Juneau- Mendenhall Glacier, Mt. Roberts, downtown museums.

[dooley123]

I would recommend the train trip in Skagway. Between the history and scenery -- my trip would not have been complete without this.

[columbus]

Head to the YUKON. If you are in Skagway a tour which is fantastic is Southeast Tours trip into the Yukon. They have a Yukoner photo safari or you can come right intot he Emerald Lake area and take their Yukon horseback. Bothe tours are great.

Good luck

[GandGinSoCalif]

We highly recommend the Heli-Hike-Rail excursion out of Skagway. A 30-minute helicopter ride took us over and around vast ice fields and glaciers (narrated wonderfully by the pilot), then let us off next to the tracks of the White Pass Railway, about 15 miles from town. From there, led by two highly knowledgeable guides, we hiked a couple of miles through the forest (incredible trees, meadows, and endless varieties of lichen) to the terminus of another glacier--not to the glacier, but to the sedimentary remains following its recession 300 years or so ago. After a descriptive discussion of the area, the guides led us back down to the railroad tracks, where we enjoyed a light snack and beverage (cold beer!!). One of the passing trains stopped for us, and our group of about 14 was directed to the rear of the train, where our own car awaited us for the scenic ride back to Skagway.

The trip is a bit pricey at $300 per person, but it gave us an incredible look at the beauty of Alaska. We'd do it again in a heartbeat.