Historic White Pass can be seen from the Klondike Highway but is best observed by White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. The Alaska portion of this trail crosses lands managed by the National Park Service and Tongass National Forest. Those wanting additional time to explore White Pass and the chance to bird this remote area may want to consider staying at a rustic cabin managed by the Tongass National Forest. The Denver Caboose Cabin and the Laughton Glacier Cabin are only accessible by train and stops at these sites need to be requested when planning your trip. Due to safety concerns, access to the site by walking on the train tracks is prohibited. These cabins each have trails associated with them that lead to remote and lightly traveled glacial valleys.

Trails along White Pass offer an assortment of birds and plants that are a mix of coastal, inland, as well as alpine species. The Denver Caboose area offers lush river vegetation, in summer home to Warbling Vireo, Western Tanager, and both Hammond’s and Pacific-slope Flycatcher. Look for the locally uncommon Vaux’s Swift along the Skagway River.

Directions:

Rail passengers can get a round-trip tour of White Pass starting at the train station located at 231 Second Street in Skagway.

Birding Resources:

• eBird Hotspot: None

Bird Species Checklist:

• Skagway checklist

Other Resources:

• National Park Service: The White Pass Trail history and culture
• White Pass and Yukon Route Railway
• US Forest Service Denver Caboose Cabin; Reserve Caboose Cabin at Recreation.gov
• US Forest Service Laughton Glacier Cabin; Reserve Laughton Cabin at Recreation.gov