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Skagway Laughton Glacier Expedition

5.0
4 reviews

Excursion Overview

Journey from Skagway to Laughton Glacier: A Scenic Railway & Backcountry Hike

Embark on an unforgettable Alaska hiking adventure combining a scenic ride aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a fully guided trek to Laughton Glacier. After a 45-minute train journey from Skagway through breathtaking landscapes of waterfalls, rushing rivers, rugged mountain peaks, and Klondike Gold Rush history, your hike begins at Glacier Station.

Follow your guide through an old-growth rainforest valley on a well-maintained trail, surrounded by towering trees and opportunities to spot Alaska wildlife, including moose, bears, and mountain goats. Hike alongside the Skagway River before continuing deeper into the valley toward Laughton Glacier, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and experience the dramatic transition from rainforest to rugged glacier terrain.

Explore the glacier’s unique features, from rocky riverbeds and boulder fields to crevasses and moulins, while learning about this incredible Alaskan landscape from your knowledgeable guides. After taking in the views and enjoying a warm drink, celebrate your adventure with a traditional “Bush Buffet” before relaxing on the scenic train ride back to Skagway. With a guide-to-guest ratio of no more than six guests, this small-group hike offers a personalized way to experience Alaska’s wilderness.

Please note: During May and early June, glacier travel may be limited or unavailable due to snow on the glacier. This tour is typically available from June through October. Our excursions were designed for cruise ship passengers but are available to everyone.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Transportation from central meeting location and return to cruise ship dock
  • Lumbar packs, trekking poles, rain gear, hats, and gloves
  • Guides carry extra warm clothing, sunblock, and bug repellent
  • Full lunch in the form of a made-to-order sandwich
  • Water bottles, candy bars, and nuts are provided for the trail. Hot drinks will also be offered during the hike.
  • The post-hike “bush buffet” consists of snacks and assorted beverages

Requirements:

  • A minimum of 2 passengers is required to book
  • Valid Passport required
  • Minimum age: 8 years old
  • Ability to hike under own power over steep uneven terrain for up to 7-8 miles
  • Closed-toed shoes or hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended
  • Dress in layers, large temperature variability will occur
  • Must bring own life saving medications (Epi-Pen, nitro, albuterol, etc.)

Duration: Approximately 10 hours (roundtrip from a central meeting location near the cruise ship docks)

  • 10 minutes - Transport to train platform and narrated history along the way
  • 15 minutes - Load the train and get ready for departure
  • 45 minutes - White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad train ride to Glacier Station (mile 14)
  • 7.25 hours - Hike to the Laughton Glacier valley and return to Glacier Station (approx. 6 miles)
  • 45 minutes - Return to Skagway on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad
  • 15 minutes - Disembark the train and load up to return to downtown Skagway
  • 15 minutes - Transport back to downtown Skagway or your cruise ship

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets a short distance, central to the cruise ship docks. Transportation back to your cruise ship at the end of the tour is included. 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 note we cannot provide refunds if you arrive without a passport
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although we cannot guarantee that any client will be able to touch the Laughton Glacier, there is a strong possibility that our tour will not only touch the Laughton Glacier but also be able to hike on it as well!

Skagway is home to a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, arctic terns, brown bears, black bears, mountain goats, marmots, wolverines, lynx, wolves, and pine martins. There is always the possibility of seeing wildlife on tour, but this is not a designated wildlife tour and specific wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

Layered clothing and waterproof outerwear are always recommended for Alaskan weather. Closed-toed shoes or hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended.

For more detailed packing tips for your Alaskan vacation, check out our What to Pack for Your Alaskan Cruise guide.

 

Guest Reviews

5.0

4 total

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Carla M

On Jul 2026

Great hike! Went slow enough climbing the mountain that I didn't even get winded. Austin helped us walk around on top of the glacier but had his tools out so we would be safe. Great spot to eat lunch. Sam even carried hot water all the way up so we could have hot cocoa at the top if we wanted. Lifetime memory for sure!

Jennifer R

On Jun 2026

This was the highlight of our Alaskan cruise. Guides were great and we felt we were really experiencing Alaska versus a tourist trap. Highly recommend if you are ready for an Alaskan adventure!

Rick I

On Sep 2025

Great excursion on this awesome glacier. Our tour guide Austin was very knowledgable and explained many aspects of the glacier as well as the rich history of Skagway. Loved this excursion!

Brent M

On Jul 2024

Our guide was great. He was friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and great with our family. We had our 3 kids with us, youngest was 11. This was a difficult hike when on the glacier so make sure your crew is ready but it is quite a special place to see.

$399.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$399.00

Duration: 10 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 10 hours



Minimum of 2 Required to Book

Passenger (8+): $399.00

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