Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

Discovering the Chilkoot Trail: A Balanced Look at Skagway’s Popular Shore Excursion

If you’re planning a stop in Skagway and are interested in combining some active outdoor time with a taste of Alaska’s history and wilderness, the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour might catch your eye. This experience promises a bit of everything—moderate hiking, scenic river floating, and a chance to walk where prospectors once rushed during the Klondike Gold Rush.

What immediately draws us to this tour are two key aspects: the chance to walk through lush rainforests with knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to relax on a peaceful raft float along the Taiya River. Both are engaging ways to see the area beyond the usual bus tour, and the price point is quite reasonable for what’s included.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is active and involves some physical effort, making it less suitable if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, less strenuous outing. Still, for those who enjoy a good outdoor challenge and love nature, this adventure fits the bill perfectly.

This tour is particularly well-suited for active travelers, families with kids aged 5 and up, and anyone wanting a meaningful way to experience Skagway’s natural beauty and history without breaking the bank. It’s not just a sightseeing tour; it’s an engaging day out.

Key Points

• Balanced outdoor activity: Combines hiking and rafting for a varied experience.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are praised for their expertise, storytelling, and attentiveness.
• Stunning scenery: Expect lush forests, river views, and potential wildlife sightings.
• Affordable value: At around $135, it offers a lot compared to many cruise line excursions.
• Active and family-friendly: Suitable for those aged 5+ who are in good shape.
• Weather-dependent: Operates in all weather, so dress accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the Skagway Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

If you enjoy getting your boots on and exploring the outdoors, this tour offers a solid introduction to one of Alaska’s historical pathways—the Chilkoot Trail. The experience begins with a scenic van ride that takes you 10 miles along the coastline from Skagway to the trailhead. The drive itself sets the tone, showcasing the rugged beauty of Alaska’s coast and mountains.

The Trail: Connecting History and Nature

Once at the Chilkoot Trail, your guide will lead you into a temperate rainforest, offering a chance to see some of Alaska’s lush greenery up close. The moderate 2-mile hike involves some steep, uneven terrain and a climb of about 300 feet. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to expansive views, and as you descend and walk level for the last mile, the trail’s historical significance shines through—you’re walking the same route prospectors once took en route to the Klondike gold fields.

Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the hike educational and engaging. Expect to hear tales about wildlife, local flora, and the history of Skagway. Several reviews mention guides who go above and beyond, sharing fascinating details and ensuring everyone feels comfortable, regardless of fitness levels.

One reviewer notes, “Our guide Owen was very knowledgeable about the environment and took us on a moderately strenuous hike,” highlighting how guides can tailor the experience to the group’s energy. The trail’s terrain, while challenging in parts, is mostly manageable for those in good physical condition and comfortable on uneven paths. Wearing sturdy shoes with good traction is recommended.

Wildlife and Vegetation: Nature’s Surprises

While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers keep an eye out for eagles, bears, otters, seals, and even salmon. A common theme in reviews is appreciation for the opportunity to see Alaska’s flora and fauna up close, even if just in signs or nests. Guides often share insights into the plants and animals, turning the hike into a mini-lesson in ecology.

The Raft: Floating Through History

After the hike, the tour transitions to a relaxing float down the Taiya River. The rubber raft, accommodating up to 11 people, invites you to gently drift along as the guide navigates the calm waters. This part of the experience is often praised for its ease and scenic beauty.

Many reviewers mention how smooth and relaxing the float is—no white water, just a peaceful glide through the landscape. As you float, keep your eyes peeled for eagles soaring overhead or nests in the trees. Some reviews note that wildlife sightings like bears or otters are possible but not guaranteed, so it’s more about the scenery and the experience of floating through the park.

The raft float concludes with a riverside snack, making it an ideal way to unwind after the hike. The entire float lasts around 40 minutes, which feels just right—it’s enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Logistics and Group Size

Transportation is straightforward—your tour includes port pickup and drop-off, with the entire experience lasting about four hours. The group size is limited to 11 travelers, which makes for a more intimate experience and easier interaction with guides.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers and waterproof clothing is wise, especially in Alaska where weather can change quickly. The tour’s structure allows some flexibility, but be prepared for physical activity, including a climb and uneven ground. The minimum age is five, so it’s family-friendly, provided kids are comfortable with active outings.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $135 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the included features: guided hike, scenic float, snacks, transportation, and the chance to learn about Alaska’s history and environment. Compared to larger cruise-line excursions, this small operation is often less expensive and more personalized, which many travelers appreciate.

Authenticity and Review Insights

The consistent high ratings—many reviews giving five stars—highlight how well this tour delivers on its promises. Travelers love the knowledgeable guides, calling them “fascinating,” “professional,” and “friendly.” The scenery is frequently described as “gorgeous,” “beautiful,” and “amazing.”

Even with some challenges like weather changes or moderate difficulty, most say the experience is well-organized and worth the effort. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way guides shared stories about the local plants and history,” reinforcing how education and scenery go hand-in-hand here.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for active travelers, outdoor lovers, and families with kids at least five years old who want to combine a hike with a relaxing float. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and enjoy learning about local ecology and history, this trip will be right up your alley.

However, if you’re seeking something more leisurely or have mobility issues, you might find the terrain challenging. The tour’s weather-dependent nature also means you should be prepared for rain or cooler temperatures, typical for Alaska.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the minimum age is 5, making it family-friendly, provided your kids are comfortable with a moderate hike and float.

What should I wear? Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Alaska’s weather can change quickly, so waterproof clothing is recommended.

How long does the whole experience last? It’s approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off, including the hike, float, and transit.

Can I see wildlife during the tour? Wildlife sightings are possible—like eagles, bears, or otters—but are not guaranteed. The scenery and overall experience are what most travelers rave about.

Is the tour physically demanding? It involves a 2-mile hike on uneven terrain with some elevation gain. It’s suitable for those in good health and comfortable on uneven ground.

What is included in the price? The tour includes the guided hike, raft float, snacks, port pickup and drop-off, and transportation.

In Summary

If you’re looking for a well-rounded outdoor adventure in Skagway that offers both history and nature, this Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour delivers. It’s a great way to get off the beaten path, explore lush rainforests, and float through a landscape that echoes the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.

The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and small group setting make it a memorable experience for active travelers and families alike. Just remember to dress appropriately and be prepared for some physical activity—that’s part of what makes this tour so rewarding.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just want to spend a few hours doing something different, this tour hits many of those marks and offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s wilderness in a manageable, enjoyable package.