Haines and Skagway FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Haines and Skagway.

When is the best time to visit Haines and Skagway?

The best time to visit Skagway is between mid-May and mid-September with the warmest weather and longest days. Temperatures range 10-18°C and July is usually the warmest month, although rain is frequent throughout the year. May to September is also the best time for watching wildlife including bears. Winters (November-March) are long, dark and cold, ranging from zero down to -7°C, but far milder than other areas in Alaska. Spring (April-May) ranges from cold to mild with mostly dry weather, while Autumn (September-October) is the wettest period with temperatures dropping from 13°C to 5°C. September/October is the best time to enjoy the Fall colours.

What is the time difference between the UK and Haines and Skagway?

Skagway is in Alaska Standard time (GMT – 9) and observes Alaska Daylight Time (GMT – 8) March to November.

What places combine well with Haines and Skagway?

Skagway is a good base to explore the northern parts of Inside Passage, although much of it is only reachable by boat or plane. Haines is only 1.5 hour’s drive from Skagway, while Juneau is about seven hours south. Skagway is also very convenient to explore the south of the Yukon – Carcross in the Southern Lakes is only 1.5 hours north-east by car or you can take the train or hike the Chilkoot Trail across the border.

What are the main cultural events in Haines and Skagway?

April – International Folk Festival (Skagway) – attracts local and international folk artists
May – Alaska Craft Beer Festival (Haines) – a celebration of local breweries
June – Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay – a race to Haines Junction in the Yukon (Haines)
July – Blues, brews and BBQs (Skagway) – music, food and drink
September – Klondike Trail of ’98 – a road relay race to Whitehorse (Skagway)
November – Alaskan Bald Eagle Festival (Haines) – a celebration of the iconic bird