Skagway Hike and Float

4.9

77 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.

Previous Guest Reviews

Please advise the guest reviews from 2023 are from a modified (easier) hiking itinerary.

The 2024 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.

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

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

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

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.

Please contact us if you are interested in bringing a child under 5 years of age.

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

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

Bottled water and a granola bar are included.

Guest Reviews

Cara H

On Sep 2024

Stewie was amazing! He was very happy and full of enthusiasm. The first part of the hike was pretty intense but we loved it!

Heather H

On Sep 2024

I had a great hike and float with our guide (I believe her name was Erin). The hike was steep in some spots (like the description said it would be), but Erin showed us where to step and how to safely navigate any steep sections. She shared lots of information about the area on the drive to the hike and provided super interesting nature commentary during the hike portion. She pointed out lots of lichen, fungi, unique plants, and bear scratches in the tree as we hiked past them. The float portion was super relaxing. What a unique experience to be surrounded by the trees and mountains while floating and taking in the scenery as your guide paddles you downstream. We saw multiple bald eagles (in their nests and flying) during the float. I had done a number of excursions on my previous cruise stops before arriving in Skagway where we simply looked at the forests and rivers, but to walk and float through them was a totally different experience. I would definitely recommend!

Dale D

On Sep 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our excursion near Skagway where we combined the hike with the float trip. Our guide was very attentive and ensured we were well educated, reminded and saw all the beauty of the surroundings, and we were safe. He also kept us entertained with the many anecdotes he had about the region and his personal experiences. Everything was managed efficiently which all ran smoothly from the minute we met your team to the time we were dropped off.

Christopher J

On Sep 2024

This is was an excellent hike. Our guides, Danny and Anna, were professional, engaging, and did a good job of making sure we were safe. The Chilkoot Trail is gorgeous. The first half is challenging as you go up and down hills. I would recommend using a walking stick as that will help you maintain your balance going up and down these steep, rugged paths. The rest of the path is easy. The float down the Taiya River is completely smooth and good for everyone, including kids. Would use this vendor again.

Karinne C

On Aug 2024

Incredible experience! Our guide was expertly skilled and informed. Would highly recommend it.

$131.25

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$131.25

Duration: 4 hours

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Duration: 4 hours

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Adult: $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!

Previous Guest Reviews