Skagway Hike and Float

4.9

104 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. With 10-11 people per raft, this small group excursion offers a more intimate experience. Please note that groups over 11 will split into two rafts. 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. This tour is typically available from May through September. While our excursions are designed with cruise ship passengers in mind, they’re open to all guests.

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: Approximately 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.
- Fully Wheelchair Accessible: No
- Limited Mobility Accessible: No
- Stroller Accessible: No
- Collapsible Wheelchair & Stroller Storage Available: No

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.

Each raft accommodates up to 11 guests plus 1 guide.

Groups larger than 11 will be split between multiple rafts. In some cases, groups of 8 or more may also be divided to ensure balance and safety. If your party needs to be divided between two rafts, the tour provider will reach out by phone to discuss the group's preferences for division.

Bottled water and a granola bar are included.

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

Layered clothing is always recommended for Alaskan weather. We recommend you wear sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire. For more detailed packing tips for your Alaskan vacation, check out our What to Pack for Your Alaskan Cruise guide.

Guest Reviews

4.9

104 total

Michele K

On Jun 2026

Joe was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable. The hike was great, the first part was uphill and challenging. We loved it and so did my children (24&26). The float was a nice ride as well. Positive experience from start to finish!

Leilani M

On Jun 2026

The staff was very friendly, knowledgeable, and well equipped.

Michelle M

On Jun 2026

This was an amazing adventure to join that was a little more off the beaten path of cruise tourists! A Skagway native, Danny picked us up at the gangplank and whisked us and 4 other guests into the quiet and peaceful wilderness of Skagway. Danny knew everything as we hiked about 2 miles to the river. We thought for sure he had a bachelors of science in biology because he could tell us every plant or tree we saw along our way. He told us the history of the area, the geography, and all the insider information. He was the reason our tour was so amazing. Anyone can ask you to follow them up a hill into the forest, but the care that he showed at every step and the love he has for the area made the tour, not a tour, but an afternoon with a good friend. The float down the river was spectacular! It was such an amazing way to travel. A remembrance of a simpler time. Danny pointed out the eagle nests and the homesteads on the way then drove us back into town. A wonderful way to make memories!

Sarah G

On Jun 2026

Excellent experience! Our guide, Rachel, was excellent.

Owais A

On Jun 2026

The hike was amazing, the views were amazing and service was great, but the tour guide need to relax a little and dial down a little and be courteous of the group. Felt like an army camp walk instead of a relax hiking, Let the customers enjoy a little. Overall it was a great experience!

$141.75

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$141.75

Duration: 4 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 4 hours

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Adult (13+): $141.75

Child (5-12): $120.75

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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