
Canada · United States
Alaska and Yukon - Chilkoot Trail Trekking
Alaska and Yukon - Chilkoot Trail Trekking
Duration
7 days
Start/End
Whitehorse
Tour type
Group
Level
Demanding
Accommodation
Camping and Hotel
Overview
The Chilkoot Trail was a Tlingit trade route and the path of more than 30,000 gold seekers. With a multi-day pack you hike from Finnegan’s Point via Pleasant Camp and Happy Camp, over Chilkoot Pass to Lake Lindeman and Bennett Lake – past relics of the Gold Rush.
Are you looking for a true hiking adventure? The Chilkoot Trail isn't just a hiking trail; it's a vibrant cultural corridor that tells the fascinating story of Alaska and the Yukon. Famous for the gold prospectors who set out in 1898 to seek their fortune in Dawson City, this trail was centuries earlier a trade route used by the Tlingit people to transport goods between the coast and the tribes in the interior. The discovery of gold near Dawson City attracted over 30,000 prospectors to Skagway. With unwavering courage, they carried all their belongings and their dreams through one of the harshest regions of North America, in search of riches and adventure. On your Chilkoot hiking tour, you'll follow in the footsteps of these pioneers, experiencing the trail with lighter packs and a lighter step. As you hike in search of your own treasure – be it adventure, personal challenges, or simply the beauty of nature – you'll be captivated by the unique history and breathtaking splendor of Alaska's coastal mountains. Let yourself be inspired by the majestic landscape, the shimmering lakes, and the breathtaking mountain panoramas. Every hike is not only a journey through nature but also a journey into the past. Immerse yourself in the tales of the gold rush prospectors and the Indigenous peoples and experience the magic of the Chilkoot Trail – an adventure you'll never forget.
Tour Code
Tour language
EnglishItinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Whitehorse
Hotel
We warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your comfortable hotel in the heart of Whitehorse. The rest of the day is yours to explore the treasures of Yukon's largest city. Take the opportunity to see the world's longest wooden fish ladder and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Yukon at the Beringia Center. Here, you'll gain exciting insights into the prehistoric wildlife and the history of this unique region. A visit to the Yukon Transportation Museum is also highly recommended, where you can learn more about the development of transportation in the Yukon. The Yukon MacBride Museum also offers interesting stories and exhibits. An absolute highlight is the SS Klondike National Historic Site – a restored paddle steamer majestically moored on the banks of the Yukon River. Here, you can experience the history of the Gold Rush era firsthand.
Arrival in Whitehorse
Day 1
Hotel
We warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your comfortable hotel in the heart of Whitehorse. The rest of the day is yours to explore the treasures of Yukon's largest city. Take the opportunity to see the world's longest wooden fish ladder and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Yukon at the Beringia Center. Here, you'll gain exciting insights into the prehistoric wildlife and the history of this unique region. A visit to the Yukon Transportation Museum is also highly recommended, where you can learn more about the development of transportation in the Yukon. The Yukon MacBride Museum also offers interesting stories and exhibits. An absolute highlight is the SS Klondike National Historic Site – a restored paddle steamer majestically moored on the banks of the Yukon River. Here, you can experience the history of the Gold Rush era firsthand.
Day 2
Klondike Highway and Finnegan's Point
Camping
Today, a short but memorable drive to Skagway awaits you. The Klondike Highway is one of the most scenic roads in North America, offering breathtaking views of the majestic surrounding mountains. After being picked up from your hotel, we'll begin our journey to the historic gold rush town of Carcross, whose name derives from Caribou Crossing. From there, we'll continue our drive over the White Pass towards Skagway. Along the way, you'll see the impressive route of the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, which runs from Fraser to Skagway. This railway, now a UNESCO International Civil Engineering Landmark, was built in 1898 to relieve gold prospectors of the heavy burden of carrying their supplies to the goldfields in Dawson City. In just 30 kilometers, the narrow-gauge railway climbs elevations of up to 1,200 meters, descending all the way back to sea level. During the 1898 gold rush, many of the 30,000 prospectors arrived in Skagway, ready to travel the 1,000 kilometers to the goldfields. Today, Skagway is a vibrant town that attracts visitors from all over the world, yet it has retained its historic charm. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town and soak up the unique atmosphere. After our visit to Skagway, we drive about 16 kilometers to Dyea, where we begin our hike. Our destination for today is Finnegan's Point, a hike of approximately three hours. The first part of the trail follows the picturesque Taiya River, lined with majestic fir trees. Keep an eye out for the impressive eagle nests in the trees and the occasional black bear passing through. In late summer, you can witness the fascinating natural spectacle of salmon spawning in the river. Along the way, you'll find remnants from the Gold Rush era, such as the remains of the old telephone line from 1898 that connected Skagway with Bennett and Log Cabin. The logging road, built in 1950, also accompanies us for part of the way. Finnegan's Point is named after a man who once built a bridge here and briefly charged travelers a toll. However, his bridge was soon overrun by thousands of gold seekers, and his efforts to hold them back were in vain. The day ends with a spectacular view of the Irene Glacier, majestically perched on the other side of the river. Let this unforgettable day in the pristine wilderness of the Yukon come to a close and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Klondike Highway and Finnegan's Point
Day 2
Camping
Today, a short but memorable drive to Skagway awaits you. The Klondike Highway is one of the most scenic roads in North America, offering breathtaking views of the majestic surrounding mountains. After being picked up from your hotel, we'll begin our journey to the historic gold rush town of Carcross, whose name derives from Caribou Crossing. From there, we'll continue our drive over the White Pass towards Skagway. Along the way, you'll see the impressive route of the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, which runs from Fraser to Skagway. This railway, now a UNESCO International Civil Engineering Landmark, was built in 1898 to relieve gold prospectors of the heavy burden of carrying their supplies to the goldfields in Dawson City. In just 30 kilometers, the narrow-gauge railway climbs elevations of up to 1,200 meters, descending all the way back to sea level. During the 1898 gold rush, many of the 30,000 prospectors arrived in Skagway, ready to travel the 1,000 kilometers to the goldfields. Today, Skagway is a vibrant town that attracts visitors from all over the world, yet it has retained its historic charm. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town and soak up the unique atmosphere. After our visit to Skagway, we drive about 16 kilometers to Dyea, where we begin our hike. Our destination for today is Finnegan's Point, a hike of approximately three hours. The first part of the trail follows the picturesque Taiya River, lined with majestic fir trees. Keep an eye out for the impressive eagle nests in the trees and the occasional black bear passing through. In late summer, you can witness the fascinating natural spectacle of salmon spawning in the river. Along the way, you'll find remnants from the Gold Rush era, such as the remains of the old telephone line from 1898 that connected Skagway with Bennett and Log Cabin. The logging road, built in 1950, also accompanies us for part of the way. Finnegan's Point is named after a man who once built a bridge here and briefly charged travelers a toll. However, his bridge was soon overrun by thousands of gold seekers, and his efforts to hold them back were in vain. The day ends with a spectacular view of the Irene Glacier, majestically perched on the other side of the river. Let this unforgettable day in the pristine wilderness of the Yukon come to a close and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 3
Pleasant Camp
Camping
After a hearty breakfast, we continue our adventure through the rainforest. The trail winds picturesquely along the banks of the Taiya River, leading us to cross several small streams. The day promises pleasant hiking conditions with easy sections, but also some short, steep climbs that reward us with impressive views of the surrounding nature. A unique attraction along our route is the rock garden – a meadow where numerous small stones have been rolled aside to make the path more passable. After a short hike, we finally reach Canyon City, once a thriving town that offered a variety of services to thousands of gold prospectors. Today, only a few building foundations, an old furnace, some pots and pans, and the boiler that powered the tramway remain as reminders of its former glory. This tramway facilitated the transport of goods over the pass in 1898 – for just 7.5 cents per pound, which is roughly equivalent to $5 today. Later we come across the "Bent Tree"—a fascinating example of how travelers wrapped small trees with colorful ribbons to mark the trail. Many of these trees have since died, but this particular tree has defied the elements and continued to grow, a symbol of perseverance and resilience. Near Pleasant Camp, we cross a suspension bridge, giving us a sense of adventure, before soon reaching Sheep Camp, our overnight stop for the night. Here we will relax and reflect on the day's experiences.
Pleasant Camp
Day 3
Camping
After a hearty breakfast, we continue our adventure through the rainforest. The trail winds picturesquely along the banks of the Taiya River, leading us to cross several small streams. The day promises pleasant hiking conditions with easy sections, but also some short, steep climbs that reward us with impressive views of the surrounding nature. A unique attraction along our route is the rock garden – a meadow where numerous small stones have been rolled aside to make the path more passable. After a short hike, we finally reach Canyon City, once a thriving town that offered a variety of services to thousands of gold prospectors. Today, only a few building foundations, an old furnace, some pots and pans, and the boiler that powered the tramway remain as reminders of its former glory. This tramway facilitated the transport of goods over the pass in 1898 – for just 7.5 cents per pound, which is roughly equivalent to $5 today. Later we come across the "Bent Tree"—a fascinating example of how travelers wrapped small trees with colorful ribbons to mark the trail. Many of these trees have since died, but this particular tree has defied the elements and continued to grow, a symbol of perseverance and resilience. Near Pleasant Camp, we cross a suspension bridge, giving us a sense of adventure, before soon reaching Sheep Camp, our overnight stop for the night. Here we will relax and reflect on the day's experiences.
Day 4
Happy Camp
Camping
Today we face the longest and most unforgettable part of our hike. After an early breakfast, we set off to tackle the 13 kilometers to Happy Camp. Shortly after starting, the trail leads us through an enchanted forest where gnarled and twisted trees bear witness to the harsh winters in which they were buried under masses of snow. As soon as the ascent to the Scales begins, we encounter numerous relics from the Gold Rush era. The prospectors, who had hauled their gear up from Skagway for weeks – often up to 50 kilograms each way – began to discard non-essential items. Amazingly, the sign indicating the tree line is now surrounded by trees, suggesting that the weather in 1898 was colder than it is today. After a short distance, we finally reach the last tree; from here on, there is only bare rock around us. In this barren landscape, tragic avalanches occurred in 1898, claiming the lives of many gold prospectors. Their victims were buried nearby, and the silence of this area speaks of their fate. A little further on, we reach the "Scales." Here, the Canadian Mounties weighed the supplies of every traveler heading into the Yukon. It was mandatory to carry at least one ton of provisions to be allowed to continue the journey. The path to the "Golden Stairs" leads almost vertically upwards. It was here, in 1898, that the famous photographs were taken, showing endless rows of men and women bent under their burdens. Climbing over the large stones is challenging, but we soon reach the summit and cross the border between Alaska and Canada at an altitude of over 1,100 meters. From here, the descent begins across glistening snowfields, past small lakes, babbling brooks, and isolated rock formations. In the late afternoon, we finally reach "Happy Camp." Here we end the day and enjoy the peace and quiet after this demanding leg of the journey.
Happy Camp
Day 4
Camping
Today we face the longest and most unforgettable part of our hike. After an early breakfast, we set off to tackle the 13 kilometers to Happy Camp. Shortly after starting, the trail leads us through an enchanted forest where gnarled and twisted trees bear witness to the harsh winters in which they were buried under masses of snow. As soon as the ascent to the Scales begins, we encounter numerous relics from the Gold Rush era. The prospectors, who had hauled their gear up from Skagway for weeks – often up to 50 kilograms each way – began to discard non-essential items. Amazingly, the sign indicating the tree line is now surrounded by trees, suggesting that the weather in 1898 was colder than it is today. After a short distance, we finally reach the last tree; from here on, there is only bare rock around us. In this barren landscape, tragic avalanches occurred in 1898, claiming the lives of many gold prospectors. Their victims were buried nearby, and the silence of this area speaks of their fate. A little further on, we reach the "Scales." Here, the Canadian Mounties weighed the supplies of every traveler heading into the Yukon. It was mandatory to carry at least one ton of provisions to be allowed to continue the journey. The path to the "Golden Stairs" leads almost vertically upwards. It was here, in 1898, that the famous photographs were taken, showing endless rows of men and women bent under their burdens. Climbing over the large stones is challenging, but we soon reach the summit and cross the border between Alaska and Canada at an altitude of over 1,100 meters. From here, the descent begins across glistening snowfields, past small lakes, babbling brooks, and isolated rock formations. In the late afternoon, we finally reach "Happy Camp." Here we end the day and enjoy the peace and quiet after this demanding leg of the journey.
Day 5
Lake Lindemann
Camping
For many hikers, the section from Happy Camp to Lake Lindeman is considered the most beautiful part of the trail. Surrounded by spectacular views, the trail is relatively flat here, apart from the short climbs at Long Lake. Soon we'll catch sight of Deep Lake and the first trees lining the path. We'll follow Moose Creek, which gently leads us from Deep Lake down to Lake Lindeman. Here we'll set up camp for the night and enjoy the magnificent surroundings.
Lake Lindemann
Day 5
Camping
For many hikers, the section from Happy Camp to Lake Lindeman is considered the most beautiful part of the trail. Surrounded by spectacular views, the trail is relatively flat here, apart from the short climbs at Long Lake. Soon we'll catch sight of Deep Lake and the first trees lining the path. We'll follow Moose Creek, which gently leads us from Deep Lake down to Lake Lindeman. Here we'll set up camp for the night and enjoy the magnificent surroundings.
Day 6
Bennett Lake
Hotel
As soon as we set off again, we are once more surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The first leg of the journey takes us towards Bare Loon Lake, followed by another highlight, Lake Bennett. Here, one of the most beautiful vistas in British Columbia unfolds before us, offering a magnificent view of the shimmering Lake Bennett. Shortly before reaching the lake, we catch glimpses of the old church and train station from the Gold Rush era – remnants of a community that once boasted over 15,000 inhabitants. After a brief look around the sights, the moment has arrived: our seaplane is ready to take us back to Whitehorse on a spectacular 45-minute flight. Still lost in thought about the adventures of the past few days, we enjoy the view of azure waters and verdant mountains, their peaks disappearing into white clouds. Upon our arrival in Whitehorse, we will be picked up at the airport and taken to our hotel. There, a well-deserved hot shower and a final dinner with our new friends await us – a perfect opportunity to reminisce about the experiences of the past few days without having to cook ourselves.
Bennett Lake
Day 6
Hotel
As soon as we set off again, we are once more surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The first leg of the journey takes us towards Bare Loon Lake, followed by another highlight, Lake Bennett. Here, one of the most beautiful vistas in British Columbia unfolds before us, offering a magnificent view of the shimmering Lake Bennett. Shortly before reaching the lake, we catch glimpses of the old church and train station from the Gold Rush era – remnants of a community that once boasted over 15,000 inhabitants. After a brief look around the sights, the moment has arrived: our seaplane is ready to take us back to Whitehorse on a spectacular 45-minute flight. Still lost in thought about the adventures of the past few days, we enjoy the view of azure waters and verdant mountains, their peaks disappearing into white clouds. Upon our arrival in Whitehorse, we will be picked up at the airport and taken to our hotel. There, a well-deserved hot shower and a final dinner with our new friends await us – a perfect opportunity to reminisce about the experiences of the past few days without having to cook ourselves.
Day 7
Return journey
On the last day of our trip, we'll transfer to the airport, where we'll say goodbye to the group and begin our journey home. For those who would like to extend their stay, there's the opportunity to make individual plans and experience further adventures in the region. We're happy to help with the planning! And so our trekking trip together comes to an end, but the memories of this unique experience will stay with us for a long time.
Return journey
Day 7
On the last day of our trip, we'll transfer to the airport, where we'll say goodbye to the group and begin our journey home. For those who would like to extend their stay, there's the opportunity to make individual plans and experience further adventures in the region. We're happy to help with the planning! And so our trekking trip together comes to an end, but the memories of this unique experience will stay with us for a long time.
Services
What's included
Flight from Lake Bennett to Whitehorse
2 hotel nights in Whitehorse
4 nights in a 2-person tent
All meals during the trek
Airport transfers in Whitehorse and all transportation as described
Local English-speaking guide
Camping equipment
National park fees
4-7 participants
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
Personal equipment, sleeping mat, sleeping bag
Visa and vaccinations, if required (ETA / ESTA for entry)
Tips
Meals and drinks not mentioned (meals in Whitehorse)
Character of the trip
Fitness
Demanding
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Nature-led
A good level of fitness and stamina are essential, as longer distances and varied terrain must be covered. Each participant carries a multi-day backpack weighing between 10 and 25 kg. Equipment and provisions are shared among the group members. Prior camping and trekking experience is recommended, but not mandatory. This trip requires a sense of adventure and a willingness to forgo familiar comforts. A certain level of physical fitness and mobility is expected, as is the ability to enjoy the experience even in less than ideal conditions such as wind and rain. As this is an expedition-style trip, last-minute changes to the itinerary are possible and at the discretion of the guide.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Optional
Single room/tent supplement
€295.00
per person
Notes on the trip
Minimum age
The minimum age for this trip is 12 years. Young people aged 12 to 17 receive a 35% discount on the regular trip price.
Notice in accordance with EU Directive 2015/2302:
This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Accommodation and partner
Our partner on site
local English-speaking guide
