Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

Experience the Alaska wilderness with the Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour. For around four hours, you get a taste of both land and water through a scenic van ride, a moderate 2-mile hike, and a peaceful float down the Taiya River. Guided by local experts, this tour offers an authentic look at the area’s natural beauty and its gold rush history—all at a surprisingly affordable price of about $135 per person.

What we love most is how the tour combines physical activity with relaxing river views—there’s something special about walking through lush forests and then drifting quietly past wildlife habitats. Plus, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making each stop both educational and fun.

A consideration to keep in mind is that this tour involves moderate physical exertion—so it’s best suited for those in good shape who enjoy a bit of a challenge. The uneven terrain, including uphill sections, might be tough for travelers with joint problems or balance issues.

Who would enjoy this? If you’re eager to see a mix of Alaska’s vibrant forests, learn about its history, and enjoy a laid-back float, this experience hits all those marks. It’s ideal for active families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting an immersive outdoor adventure without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Balanced combo of hiking and rafting offers a diverse outdoor experience.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with engaging stories and ecological insights.
• Accessible for families with children 5 and up, provided they are comfortable with activity.
• Small group size (max 11) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Cultural and natural highlights include the historic Chilkoot Trail, rainforests, and wildlife sightings.
• Affordable value compared to cruise-line excursions, with a focus on authentic experience.

Exploring the Skagway Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

Starting Point: From Ship to Wilderness

Once your cruise ship pulls into Skagway, you won’t have to wait long for one of its most engaging excursions. Your day begins with a convenient pickup, often right at the cruise terminal or a nearby location, with a friendly guide ready to introduce you to the area’s highlights. The van ride along the coastline to the Chilkoot Trail is scenic and sets the tone for your adventure—think lush forests and sweeping views of the mountains and river valleys. This part of the trip alone is a great way to get a feel for the local landscape before diving into nature.

The Chilkoot Trail Hike: A Walk Through History and Nature

The main event is a moderate 2-mile hike on the historic Chilkoot Trail. This trail is famous for its role during the Klondike Gold Rush, serving as the route prospectors used to reach the Yukon. Our guides, whose enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, will lead you through a temperate rainforest, filled with towering trees, vibrant mosses, and abundant wildlife signs. Expect to climb about 300 feet in elevation at the start, which can be a bit challenging but is manageable with breaks.

Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and engaging commentary as some of the best parts. As one hiker noted, “The hiking was beautiful and a bit challenging in places. Opt for the walking stick when offered.” The trail’s uneven terrain and elevation gain make for a good workout—perfect for those looking to combine outdoor activity with historical context.

Along the way, you’ll be on the lookout for wildlife—eagles soaring overhead, signs of bears, otters, salmon, and maybe even a moose if you’re lucky. Guides are experts at pointing out flora and fauna, adding educational value to the walk. The trail retraces a segment of the route prospector William Moore and others once used, connecting you physically to a pivotal moment in Alaska’s past.

The Float: Calm Waters and Wildlife Watching

Once the hike concludes, it’s time for a relaxing river float aboard a rubber raft with a maximum capacity of 11 passengers—small enough for a personal experience but lively enough to feel like an adventure. The Taiya River gently meanders through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, offering a peaceful perspective on the landscape.

As noted by many, the float is easy and smooth, with guides rowing and steering so you can just sit back and enjoy. The calm water, coupled with the scenic backdrop, makes this a relaxing way to see more of Alaska’s natural beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles nesting in tall trees, otters swimming alongside, and possibly seals resting on riverbanks.

Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat is high enough to make the journey exciting. As one reviewer put it, “The views are amazing,” and another added, “the guide did all the work,” which allows you to focus entirely on the scenery and wildlife.

The Logistics and Experience

After your float, a riverbank snack provides a perfect refreshment before heading back to Skagway. The tour concludes with transportation back to the cruise terminal, giving you plenty of time to explore the town or prepare for your onward journey.

The entire experience is designed to be active yet manageable, with plenty of opportunities to rest and take photos. The small group setting means personalized attention, and guides are praised for their professionalism and local knowledge—making this more than just a walk and float, but a genuine educational adventure.

Why This Tour Works Well

This excursion offers authentic outdoor exploration, blending physical activity with cultural history, all within a manageable timeframe. It’s a great choice for families due to its family-friendly age minimum of 5, provided children are comfortable with moderate activity. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more intimate and less hurried.

Many travelers, including those with varied hiking experience, found the trail “mostly downhill or level,” making it accessible without sacrificing scenic beauty. The professional guides, like Owen, and those who kept the group entertained and informed, ensure you get a genuine sense of the area’s natural and historical significance.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The Chilkoot Trail Hike

The adventure begins with a roughly 10-mile van ride from Skagway along the coastline, offering breathtaking views that set the scene. Once at the trailhead, you’ll start your moderate hike, which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. This part of the trip is where you’ll really get a feel for Alaska’s lush forests, with plenty of opportunities to ask your guide questions about local ecology or history.

Expect an initial steep climb, which, as one reviewer mentioned, “climbed about 500 feet,” before descending into flatter terrain for the remainder. The trail’s uneven, sometimes steep, sections make sturdy shoes with good traction essential. You may want to bring a walking stick, especially for the uphill parts.

The River Float

Following the hike, you’ll board a small, stable raft to drift down the Taiya River. The float lasts about 40 minutes, providing a calming contrast to the physical exertion of the hike. The guide mans the oars, so your role is to sit back and soak in the scenery.

Many reviews emphasize how easy and enjoyable the float is, with some noting that “no white water” occurs, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. The river gently winds through the park, with abundant opportunities to see eagles, nests, and perhaps other wildlife.

Return and Reflection

As your tour wraps up, you’ll be shuttled back to Skagway’s cruise terminal, often with options to get dropped downtown or back at the ship. Many travelers comment that this flexibility makes it easy to add a bit of sightseeing or shopping afterward.

The Value in Your Hands

While the tour costs about $134.62 per person, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment for the chance to combine active outdoor experiences with historical storytelling. Guided by local experts, you gain insights into the natural environment and the history of the Klondike Gold Rush, which elevates the experience far beyond a simple hike or float.

Compared to larger, more commercialized excursions, this tour’s smaller size and knowledgeable guides deliver a more personal and educational experience. Many reviews highlight how guides like Bob, Stuey, Owen, and Erin made the experience memorable, full of fascinating stories and ecological insights.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy a bit of hiking and outdoor water activities. It’s especially good for families with children 5 and older who are comfortable with moderate exertion. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see Alaskan forests and wildlife, while history buffs will enjoy retracing the trail that helped shape the region.

If you’re looking for an authentic, small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to experience Alaska’s wild beauty firsthand, this tour delivers on all fronts. It balances physical activity with tranquil moments on the river, making it a well-rounded outdoor adventure for most travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 5, making it suitable for families with young children, provided they can handle a moderate hike and water float.

How physically demanding is the hike?
It’s classified as a moderate-level hike, including some uphill sections of about 500 feet. It’s manageable for most active people in good health, but not recommended for those with joint or balance issues.

What should I wear?
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes with good traction, especially for uneven terrain. Dress in layers suitable for all weather conditions—Alaska weather can change quickly.

Is wildlife likely to be seen?
While wildlife sightings like eagles, bears, otters, and seals are possible, they are not guaranteed. Guides will point out signs and potential habitats.

How long is the van ride?
The van ride to the trailhead is about 10 miles each way, roughly 1 hour. The scenic drive itself is an enjoyable part of the experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is included in the cost?
Your fare covers the guided hike, raft float, port pickup and drop-off, and snacks. Water-proof bags are provided for personal belongings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before your scheduled start, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

This tour balances the rugged beauty of Alaska with the comfort of guided expertise, making it a rewarding choice for those wanting an active, authentic experience during their cruise stop in Skagway.