Celebrities Used To Flock To This Tiny Alaska Town To Experience The Gateway To Alaska
By Megan McDonald|Published March 15, 2023
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Megan McDonald
Author
Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
Nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Lynn Canal, Skagway may be a tiny Alaska town, but it has captured the hearts of some of the past century’s most famous artists and writers. From renowned photographers like Ansel Adams to celebrated writers like Jack London and John Muir, Skagway has long inspired those seeking to capture the spirit of the Last Frontier. With its rugged natural beauty, fascinating history, and charming streets, Skagway has a lot to offer visitors looking to experience the best of Alaska.
Skagway, Alaska may be a small town, but it has attracted the attention of some big names throughout history.
From famous photographers like Ansel Adams to renowned writers like Jack London and John Muir, Skagway has lured in some of the most creative minds of the past century.
But what is it about this tiny Alaskan town that has captivated these celebrities? Let's take a closer look.
For starters, Skagway is situated at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage, a scenic route for ships that wind their way through the coastal islands of Alaska and British Columbia.
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The town served as a major gateway during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s, and it still maintains much of its historic charm.
Skagway is also surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. The town is nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Lynn Canal, and visitors can take a short hike to see panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
Of course, for photographers like Ansel Adams, the real draw of Skagway was the opportunity to capture the unique light and landscape of the region.
The long days of summer in Alaska provide a photographer with endless opportunities for stunning images, and Skagway's rugged beauty makes it an ideal location for those seeking to capture the spirit of the Last Frontier.
For writers like Jack London and John Muir, Skagway provided a rich source of inspiration.
London wrote extensively about his experiences during the Klondike Gold Rush, including his time in Skagway, in books such as "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang." Muir, meanwhile, was known for his love of the natural world and his efforts to protect it. He explored the wilderness around Skagway extensively, and his experiences there helped to shape his views on conservation and the importance of preserving wild places for future generations.
Today, visitors to Skagway can experience the same natural beauty and historic charm that drew in these famous artists and writers.
From hiking and camping to wildlife watching and gold panning, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy in this small town with a big history. So whether you're a creative type looking for inspiration or simply seeking to explore the wilds of Alaska, Skagway is definitely a destination worth checking out.
Have you ever visited this tiny Alaska town? What did you think? Would you visit again? Let us know in the comments below!
While in Skagway, you can experience the nearby waterfalls on the Icy Lake Trail.
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