White Pass RR and Alaska questions
 

My mother and I are booked in August on the Norwegian Star. After reading many recommendations we picked the White Pass RR and Misty Fjords jet boat tour as our shore excursions. For the White Pass RR we were forced to pick the early departure (8:10 am). Is the morning or afternoon better for this tour, mainly are the views better in the afternoon? Second quesiton, what's the best side/ car to sit in for optimum views?

In Skagway I was also planning on doing the hike to Lower Dewey Lake. Is it a very difficult hike, my mom is not up for boulder hopping or anything. So depending on the difficulty I may do this by myself.

My last question is about Victoria, BC. We are scheduled to arrive at 6:00 pm, but I've read that the ships are often late. Is there really any time to enjoy Victoria, is it worth trying to book an excursion? I'd like to see Butchart Gardens, but is there much to see this late? I don't want to be rushed, does anyone have recommendations for some leisurely activity for Victoria?

It doesn't matter what time you go on the White Pass, no way to predict the weather, many will state there is more fog in the am, just not true, can be anytime. :) Sit on the left from Skagway, to have the views both ways, you could sit across from the bathroom. :) The Lower Dewey lake trail is totally uphill, but a well marked trail, mostly clear- a few ruts perhaps.

If you want to see Butchart Gardens, the ship tour is really your only option since it makes the best use of the short time.

Many thanks BudgetQueen. I've read many of your posts and your tips are very helpful. I'm relieved to hear you say that the weather on the am trip on White Pass is no better or worse than afternoon :)

About how long would you say does it take to hike to Lower Dewey Lake?

Allow at least a couple hours for the Lower Dewey Lake.

the seats flip over in the cars so when you come back you face the front of the train too. I agree left side going up is best.

In retrospect, I think I would have preferred the earlier White Pass RR trip.

I'm not sure when you're supposed to fit in dinner if you go to Butchart's in Victoria, but you'll have a few good hours of daylight and it should be quite lovely in the evening. Ships sometimes arrive early too.

Thanks everyone :). I decided to book the Butchart tour through the ship.