Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

A close look at the Skagway Shore Excursion Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour

If you’re heading to Skagway and looking for a way to get off the cruise ship and really soak in the Alaskan wilderness, this Chilkoot Trail hike and float combo might just be your perfect choice. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve tried it, and it’s clear this experience offers a nice blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and historical context—especially if you love outdoor adventures with a hint of education.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides, who keep things lively and informative. Second, the stunning scenery that includes lush forests and river vistas. Third, the opportunity to spot wildlife—eagles, bears, otters and more—makes every trip feel a little special. The only caveat? It’s an active tour, so you’ll want to be comfortable with some hiking and uneven terrain. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy physical activity and want a more authentic experience outside the typical tourist spots.

This tour appeals most to adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and families comfortable with moderate exertion. If you’re after a smaller, more intimate group experience and value local expertise, this will likely check all your boxes.

This experience made our article of Top 4 Hiking And Trekking Tours In Skagway.

Key Points

Balanced activity — Combines hiking with a relaxing river float for a varied experience.
Expert guides — Guides like Owen, Bob, and Erin bring a wealth of knowledge, making the trip more engaging.
Wildlife spotting opportunities — Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, bears, and otters; sightings aren’t guaranteed but are common.
Historical context — Retracing part of the Klondike Gold Rush trail adds a layer of storytelling to the adventure.
Small group size — Max 11 travelers, which fosters a personal and flexible experience.
Value for money — At just over $130, the tour offers a comprehensive half-day outdoor adventure, often cheaper than cruise line options.

What to Expect from the Tour

Transportation and Arrival:
Once you’ve booked, your journey kicks off with a pickup in Skagway. The tour includes a 10-mile scenic van ride along the coastline to the trailhead, giving you a taste of local scenery even before the hike begins. The van ride alone sets the tone, with travelers commenting on how it’s a comfortable, informative start to the adventure.

The Hike:
The core activity is a moderate 2-mile trek along the historic Chilkoot Trail. Expect a mix of steep, uneven sections at the start, climbing approximately 300 feet, before descending and then walking on level terrain for the final stretch. This part of the tour is ideal for those in good shape, as shown by reviews describing the hike as “challenging in places” but generally accessible with frequent breaks.

Along the way, guides share stories about the trail’s significance during the Klondike Gold Rush, and you’ll have the chance to spot flora and fauna. Reviewers report seeing large trees, mushrooms, and signs of wildlife like eagles and even bears. Guides like Owen and Joe are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making sure no one feels left behind or overwhelmed.

Wildlife & Nature:
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests mention seeing eagles nesting and otters in the river. The lush temperate rainforest setting means you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, mosses, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the cruise port.

The Float Experience:
After completing the hike, you’ll board a rubber raft designed for small groups (maximum 11 people) for a serene float down the Taiya River. This part takes approximately 40 minutes and offers a fantastic view of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Guides like Erin are known for their storytelling, pointing out eagle nests, signs of bears, and salmon swimming upstream. The float is very relaxed—no white water, just a gentle drift—making it suitable for most ages over 5, provided you’re comfortable with a seated boat ride.

Guests often remark on the scenic beauty of the river corridor, with some reviewers noting, “the views are amazing,” and appreciating the chance to see Alaska’s wildlife from a different perspective. Afterward, a snack on the riverbank offers a perfect ending before heading back to Skagway.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Chilkoot Trail hike:

Starting at the trailhead, you’ll walk roughly two miles through a temperate rainforest. The ascent of about 300 feet at the beginning is the most demanding part, but guides usually advise taking breaks and using walking sticks if offered—many reviewers found the hike “challenging but rewarding” and appreciated the pace set by guides like Erin, who are attentive to individual needs.

• Transition along Dyea Road:

The van ride from Skagway to the trailhead is about 10 miles, offering scenic views and an opportunity for local commentary. Some travelers mention it’s a good time to get comfortable, ask questions, and get excited for what’s ahead.

• The River Float:

After the hike, the small raft waits to carry you downstream. The raft experience is described as “easy,” “relaxing,” and “not a drop of water,” making it accessible for most. Guides man the oars, and you simply enjoy the peaceful river scenery and the chance to spot eagles, seals, or even bears if luck is on your side.

• Return:

The tour concludes with transportation back to Skagway’s cruise terminal, with most guests noting the punctuality and efficiency of the service.

The Value of This Tour

At $134.62 per person, this half-day experience offers a substantial adventure at a reasonable price. When compared to cruise line excursions, reviews highlight that booking directly or through trusted providers like Viator often provides a more intimate experience with fewer crowds and more personalized attention—some travelers mention that it’s less expensive and more flexible.

The inclusion of snacks and port pickup/drop-off enhances convenience, while the small group size ensures guides can tailor the experience and answer questions thoroughly. The worry-free guarantee—ensuring on-time return to your ship—adds peace of mind, especially in a port like Skagway, where timing is crucial.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous families, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs who enjoy active outings. You’ll need a good physical condition, as the hike involves uneven terrain and a brief steep ascent, but the reward is the chance to walk part of the historic trail and float through pristine wilderness.

Travelers who appreciate local guides with storytelling skills and those eager to see wildlife in its habitat will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect for those who prefer small group sizes for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

The Sum Up

This Skagway shoreline adventure offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and outdoor activity. The guides’ expertise, combined with the stunning landscapes along the Chilkoot Trail and Taiya River, make for an authentic Alaskan experience that’s both engaging and memorable.

While it involves some physical effort, the tour strikes a good balance between moderate challenge and enjoyment. The float provides a tranquil, scenic conclusion to a day full of exploration. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a different way to enjoy Skagway, this tour delivers.

For travelers who value small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and genuine outdoor experiences, this trip hits all the right notes. Its affordability and well-organized structure make it an excellent choice for those looking to add an active, authentic adventure to their Alaskan cruise.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes port pickup and drop-off, with a scenic 10-mile van ride from Skagway to the trailhead.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 4 hours, including transportation, hiking, and the river float.

What is the difficulty level?
The hike is moderate, with some steep sections and uneven terrain. It’s suitable for active travelers in good physical shape.

Are snacks provided?
Yes, the tour includes a riverbank snack after the float.

Can children participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, and children should be comfortable with physical activity.

What should I wear?
Sturdy, waterproof shoes with good traction are recommended. Dress for the weather, as it operates in all conditions.

What wildlife might I see?
Eagles, bears, otters, and seals are possible, but sightings are not guaranteed.

How many people are in each raft?
Maximum group size per raft is 11 travelers, ensuring a cozy and less crowded experience.

This tour stands out as an active, scenic, and educational way to experience Skagway and its surrounding wilderness—perfect for those craving a more personal connection with Alaska’s wild side.