Skagway Hike and Float

4.9

92 reviews

Excursion Overview

Hike the infamous Chilkoot Trail and raft down the tranquil Taiya River!

On this adventure you'll retrace the steps of the Gold Rush stampeders on the infamous Chilkoot Trail, hiking through a moss-covered northern temperate rainforest for 2 miles. The scenic hike is 1.5 to 2 hours and is moderately difficult over uneven and hilly terrain (elevation gain of 300 feet) for the first mile then mostly flat ground for the remainder.

After the one-way hike, suit up in life jackets and rubber boots and enjoy your relaxing float on the tranquil Taiya River. Keep your eyes open and your camera ready to spot Bald Eagles and other potential wildlife. Your peaceful float will last roughly 40 minutes before returning you to the shore where we'll provide you with a light snack and beverage. Sit back and enjoy the scenic ride back to Skagway!

Please note: This tour is only available from Monday to Friday. This tour operates in both sunny and rainy weather so please dress in layers for your comfort.

Please note: this hike is moderate to strenuous

The hike is on an uneven dirt trail with some steep portions and hilly terrain (elevation gain of 300 feet), with rocks and roots to navigate for the first mile. The second mile is mostly flat ground for the remainder of the hike. The area could have muddy conditions at times so please wear sturdy walking shoes with good traction.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

Roundtrip scenic transportation
Rain poncho, rubber boots, and life jackets are provided for the raft portion only
Hiking poles are available if needed
Water and a light snack - please consider bringing your own reusable water bottle to reduce the use of single-use water bottles

Requirements:

Minimum age: 5 years old
All participants must sign a visitor's acknowledgment of risk before participating in this tour
Children under 18 will be required to have a parent or legal guardian sign this form
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 the 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
Sturdy walking/hiking shoes with good traction are recommended
Please consider bringing your own reusable water bottle to reduce the use of single-use plastic water bottles
Please dress for potential rainy or windy weather with layers and a waterproof jacket

Duration: 4 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

1 hour - Roundtrip guide-narrated transportation
1.75 hour - Guided one-way moderate hike on Chilkoot Trail
45 minutes - Suit up in rafting gear/put away gear at the end of rafting, snack
35-45 minutes - Guided-navigated river float trip

Meeting Instructions:

This tour meets on the cruise ship dock. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

Refund Policy:

You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.

The river float is mild with no whitewater splashing over the side of the raft. Rain ponchos are provided for protection if needed.

The hike is moderate to strenuous on an uneven dirt trail with some steep portions, hilly terrain (elevation gain 300 feet), with rocks and roots to navigate around for the first mile. The second mile is mostly flat ground for the remainder of the hike. The area could have muddy conditions at times so please wear sturdy walking shoes with good traction.

The river float rafts each hold a maximum of 11 passengers and 1 guide.

Bottled water and a granola bar are included.

Non-alcoholic beverages in closeable containers and snacks are allowed on tour.

Guest Reviews

4.9

92 total

Michael G

On Jul 2025

Our guide Owen was great and took us along a rugged but doable section of the Chilkoot trail. He pointed out different plant species and provided history of the trail. Once complete he loaded up a raft and floated us a few miles down the Taiya River for some amazing views.

Kaylene A

On Jul 2025

This was a great way to get out in nature, see beautiful sights and learn more about Skagway. The guide was patient and knowledgeable. Everything was provided to make us feel comfortable and safe. Thank you!

Kimberly J

On Jul 2025

We had a fantastic time on this excursion. Our kids (9 and 12) absolutely loved the hike and riding down the river and we all learned so much about the Alaskan wilderness. We also took the Skagway train ride later in the afternoon, but that was so boring compared to the hike and float. This one was our favorite excursion of our whole trip.

Amanda D

On Jul 2025

This was such a fun excursion! The guides were friendly and knowledgable (shoutout to Rachel!), and the hike on the Chilkoot Trail really helped us connect to the history in this area. We didn't feel rushed on the hike at all and the float down the river at the end was such a great way to finish the tour. Don't forget bug spray!!

Hilary L

On Jul 2025

We loved the Hike and Float! Our guide was Owen and he was friendly and extremely knowledgeable, sharing the history of Skagway and the biodiversity of the beautiful rainforest as we made our way up the Chilkoot trail. We felt safe and well taken care of the entire time. My only wish is that it lasted longer. We ll have to return and hike even more of the trail. We highly recommend!

$131.25

Best Price Guarantee!

$131.25

Duration: 4 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 4 hours

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Adult (13+): $131.25

Child (5-12): $110.25

Skagway Hike and Float

Excursion Overview

Hike the infamous Chilkoot Trail and raft down the tranquil Taiya River!

Please note: this hike is moderate to strenuous