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Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float

4 Hours Duration

Includes about 40-minutes on the river

Wildlife Sighting Opportunities

Eagles and seals

2-Mile Hike

On historic Chilkoot Trail

Float Along Taiya River

No rapids on this calm section

Description

Ready to adventure in the Alaskan wilderness? Embark on a guided hike through the temperate rainforest and enjoy a serene river float on the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float. This experience offers a fantastic chance to exercise those sea legs, delve into local lore, and immerse yourself in nature as you follow the footsteps of early gold rushers on the iconic Chilkoot Trail. The 2-mile hike leads you to the Taiya River, where your raft awaits. Drift along the tranquil waters of the Taiya as your guide regales you with tales of the Gold Rush era, surrounded by the breathtaking Alaskan landscape.

This active Skagway shore excursion seamlessly blends hiking with a serene river float, giving you a break from the busy towns and crowded cruise ships. Begin the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float with a picturesque 10-mile drive towards the historic town of Dyea, where your guide sets the scene for the journey ahead. Keep an eye out for eagles and seals as you cruise along the northern edge of the Taiya Inlet to the starting point of the grueling Chilkoot Trail, once trodden by hopeful prospectors seeking fortune in the Yukon's depths.

The hike commences through lush Alaskan foliage, gradually ascending the famous Chilkoot Trail. Designed for active explorers, expect moderate elevation gain (about 300 ft. over the first half a mile and then down 300 ft. in the second half-mile (steep) and then the last mile is mostly flat) and natural terrain. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide supplements the experience with insights into the region's vibrant ecosystem. This Skagway shore excursion concludes at the waiting raft, ready to carry you on a leisurely journey down the Taiya River, fed by glacial streams from high mountain peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles while soaking in the unspoiled beauty of Alaska's wilderness.

After the float, indulge in a riverside snack before returning to Skagway, where ample time remains to explore the town or partake in another adventure. For adventurers seeking an exhilarating blend of activity and scenic splendor, the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour promises an unforgettable experience in Skagway.

Looking for more adventure to fill your day in port? Check out our White Pass Klondike Bike!

What's Included

Round Trip Transportation

Knowledgable Guides

Equipment & Gear: Life Jackets and Rubber Boots

Small Snack: Granola Bar

Guide Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Will we get wet on the rafting ride?

No, this tour is a scenic and mellow float tour and does not contain any whitewater or rapids. Ponchos can be supplied if there is a drizzle but we recommend bringing your camera along as there is no worries about splashing water.

What will the weather be like?

One thing that is predictable about Alaskan coastal weather is that the weather can be variable. In the course of the day we can see sun, drizzle, sun, clouds and everything in between. Our tours are very rarely due to weather as the conditions are typically fleeting. The classic saying is that if you don't like the Skagway weather now, just wait 45 minutes. A sunny, warm day might end up rainy and vice versa.

What's the largest group size?

The maximum group size that the rafts can hold is 11 people.

How difficult is the hike?

Participants must be in good physical condition for the 1.5-2 hour hike. Those with back, knee, hip, or balance issues should consider their participation in this activity. Due to safety reasons and keeping on tour schedule, your guide will strongly advise against participation in the hike if they feel it to be too strenuous for your ability level. An alternate arrangement will be made so you can participate in the float portion.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 4 years old

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City

Skagway

Itinerary • 4h 00min • 4 activities

After pick-up right from your cruise ship's dock, you'll head down to the start of the Chilkoot Trail on a fully narrated drive with your guides sharing local knowledge.

Duration

45 minutes

A scenic hike along the historic Chilkoot Trail, walking through an abandoned Gold Rush town site.

Duration

2 hours

Once you've reached the Taiya River, your guides will take you on a 10-person raft down a mellow section of the river with no rapids and stunning views of the surrounding forests.

Duration

40 minutes

At the end of the float, you'll arrive right back where you started, hop in the vans and venture back to your cruise ship for an easy return for your all-aboard.

Duration

45 minutes