From Cache

Skagway Hike and Float

4.9
67 reviews

Excursion Overview

**2024 Tour Schedule Coming Soon**

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. 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.

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: 4 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

  • 1 hour - Roundtrip guide-narrated transportation
  • 1.5 hour - Guided nature walk through the Dyea Townsite/Additional sightseeing
  • 45 minutes - Drive to the river put-in site, and suit up in rafting gear/put away gear at the end of rafting, snack
  • 35 - 45 minutes - Guide-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.

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

The river float is mild with no whitewater splashing over the side of the raft. Rain ponchos are provided for protection if needed.

The river float rafts each hold a maximum of 11 passengers and 1 guide.

The hike is a mostly flat walk on dirt and gravel surfaces through a natural forested area. The area could have muddy conditions at times so please wear sturdy walking shoes with good traction.

Please contact us if you are interested in bringing a child under 5 years of age.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.

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

Bottled water and a granola bar are included.

 

Guest Reviews

4.9

67 total

91%
9%
0%
0%
0%

Samantha G

On Sep 2023

This was a great tour! Our tour guide Joe was funny and full of great stories. We learned a lot about the wildlife and ecology of the area. He gave us plenty of time to hike around the forest. The river float was amazing too. The scenery was spectacular and our family had the best time. Highly recommend!

Claire S

On Sep 2023

This was not just a highlight of our trip, but a transcendant experience. Our guide, Joe, was chill, knowledgeable, and incredibly skilled on the river. He led us through the hike at just the right pace, stopping in a meadow of such sublime beauty and tranquility that I will remember it always as one of life's perfect moments. The float section of the trip was equally stellar. Floating through glacially cold water, guided by Joe's seemingly effortless navigation, the silence, the views, and the tranquility renewed our spirits and soothed our souls. I cannot sufficiently recommend this excursion. Thank you, Joe, for one of my life's perfect moments.

Tacee B

On Aug 2023

Went on this excursion solo, and was placed with a family of 5 - had a great time. Owen was a very informative guide - loved hearing about the history of the area as well the flora and fauna during the trek. The forest did have a bit of "stair" climbing and lots of roots/rocks to maneuver over, the trekking pole that was offered did come in handy at times. No bear sightings but did see ground squirrels and bald eagles. The glacial river that we cruised down was smooth and relaxing. Definitely recommend and bonus was able to support a local business.

Judith P

On Aug 2023

This trip totally exceeded our expectations. We spent a fascinating morning, exploring the area of Dyea, just a short drive away from Skagway. Traveling with only one other family made this a very personal, small group experience, which was lovely. Top marks to our guide, Owen, for providing us with an in depth insight into this amazing place. We learned about the natural environment, the flora and fauna of the Tongass rainforest, and the prominent part that Dyea played in the Klondike Gold Rush. The stunning beauty of the landscape, and the peace of the forest were a joy to experience. Owen explained that the route for our hike had been changed this season, due to flood damage last year, on the original trail. This resulted in an easy, level, walk around the forest, rather than a more challenging hike, which was fine with us. Our float back down the river was the perfect way to end our trip, soaking up the incredible scenery, and watching the wildlife, including the majestic bald eagles. Fabulous. Thank you, Owen, for sharing your love of this very special place with us.

Gloria L

On Aug 2023

The hike was a moderate hike. Unfortunately we, couldn't go all the way. But our intrepid leader, Bob, was a wonderful guide and storyteller. He kept us engaged with his knowledge of the environment, history and regaled us with stories of his past. He is a gem!

$131.25

Best Price Guarantee!

$131.25

Duration: 4 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 4 hours



Adult: $131.25

Child (5-12): $110.25

From Cache -BTN