Top 4 Lakes around Skagway

For an easy and quick escape into nature, Lower Dewey Lake is ideal. It's a short, moderate hike from downtown Skagway, with a loop trail around the lake that's perfect for a leisurely walk, sunbathing, or picnicking. The first part of the trail is even wheelchair-accessible.

Yes, for a more strenuous adventure, consider the hike to Upper Dewey Lake. This glacier-fed lake offers breathtaking alpine scenery after a steep 2.5-mile (4 km) climb with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is Goat Lake, though it has no established trail and requires an extremely difficult climb.

The lakes offer diverse scenery. Upper Dewey Lake provides stunning alpine landscapes and panoramic views of Skagway. Across the Canadian border, Emerald Lake is famous for its intense green color due to marl deposits, while Summit Lake features clear turquoise water amidst dramatic mountain views. Tutshi Lake, known as 'charcoal lake,' offers deep, dark waters along a scenic highway stretch.

Absolutely. Lower Dewey Lake is very family-friendly due to its easy accessibility and moderate loop trail. It's great for walks and picnics. Another spot to consider is Smuggler's Cove, which offers a peaceful, grassy area along the water, accessible from Dyea Road or the Skagway Airport parking area.

While many lakes are cold, swimming is possible in some. The water at Upper Dewey Lake is often found refreshing by hikers despite its cold temperature. Lower Dewey Lake is also suitable for a dip. For those venturing into Canada, Summit Lake is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and its clear waters might tempt swimmers on warmer days.

The region is rich in wildlife. Near Lost Lake, grizzly bears are known to frequent the area. Around Summit Lake, you might spot bears and caribou. Emerald Lake is a good spot for birdwatching, with bald eagles, osprey, and moose often seen in the vicinity. Always be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking in the wilderness.

Yes, several lakes offer fishing. Lower Dewey Lake is known for brook trout. Lost Lake is a good spot for rainbow trout. If you venture into British Columbia, Tutshi Lake is popular for lake trout. Always check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before fishing.

Camping is available at several locations. Lower Dewey Lake has designated camping spots and firepits along its loop trail. Near Upper Dewey Lake, there are two cabins, one free and one reservable through the Skagway Recreation Center, suitable for overnight stays. Lost Lake also offers camping. Further afield in Canada, Summit Lake has a campground for overnight visitors.

Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the surrounding area offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find a variety of hiking trails, from easy to difficult, including those around Lower Dewey Lake. For more options, explore our guides on family-friendly hikes, easy hikes, and running trails around Skagway.

The best time to visit is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall (May to September), when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities. During this period, you'll experience longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, making hiking, fishing, and camping more enjoyable.

Lost Lake, despite its name, is accessible and offers a serene escape for blueberry picking, camping, and fishing for rainbow trout. It's known for its tranquil natural beauty. Another less-visited option is Bernard Lake in British Columbia, which offers beautiful views along the Klondike Highway, though specific activities are limited to scenic viewing.