Dewey Lakes Trail - Skagway Hiking Trails

Dewey Lakes is a popular Skagway destination because the trail starts in town. The main cruise ship terminal forces you to walk right past the trailhead on your way into town. There are two lakes, the first being fairly easy with a nice trail system around the lake. The second (Upper Dewey Lake) is a bit of a leg burner, especially if you been sitting on a cruise ship for several days. Both make for a good, cheep shore excursion if visiting by boat, and you will still have time to see the town as well.

From 2nd Ave. head east past the railroad depot. Continue past Spring St. towards the railroad tracks. Just before the tracks, look for the Dewey lake Trail System signpost. Turn left onto the footpath which follows Pullen Creek. Follow the path 400 feet and cross the footbridge and railroad tracks to the trailhead sign.

The trail switchbacks steeply for a half mile along a forested hillside. A few spots open up for pictures but not many. Just before the lake is a small reservoir. There are many trails but the signage is good. If heading to the upper lake, you should only pass one little point where you can get a view of Lower Dewey Lake. The turn off for the upper lake isn't far from that spot. Now the trail gets more narrow and more steep. Climb the trail for 2 miles gaining 2,500 feet. As you get near the upper lake, the vegetation thins out and the views open up. There is a public cabin and another cabin for those who rent it out. The trail is reported to continue to the next lake, the Devils Punch Bowl.