Chilkoot Trail Trail

A 53 km, 3-5 day international trek following the Klondike gold rush route from the Alaska coast into British Columbia.

Time to Hike: A typical itinerary is 3-5 days to cover the 53 kilometre length, allowing time for weather and photo stops. Many people plan four days for a steady pace with overnight camping.

Best Time to Go: Summer months are the main season, with the most reliable conditions in mid-June through August. Early season snow or late season cold can make the pass more difficult.

Getting there: Trailheads are accessed from Dyea near Skagway on the Alaska coast, and the route finishes at Bennett Lake in Canada. Most hikers start at the coast and walk inland to follow the historic direction of travel.

Costs: Overnight travel on the Chilkoot requires reservations and a backcountry permit; fees are charged by the managing agencies. There are no huts - only designated campsites maintained by the park services so budget for permit fees, campsite fees and any shuttle or resupply transport.

Difficulty: The trail includes sustained steep sections, loose rock and the exposed climb over Chilkoot Pass, with sudden weather shifts and possible snow even in summer. Physical fitness and experience with overnight backcountry camping are required.

Chilkoot Pass sits in the rugged Coast Mountains and the 53 kilometre Chilkoot Trail threads between coastal temperate rainforest and high alpine terrain. The walk begins among old-growth spruce and hemlock near the inlet, climbs through subalpine talus and wind-scoured snowfields, then descends to the historic lake and river systems of the Yukon interior.

The route is notable for its preserved gold rush artifacts - piles of stamped timber, old campsites and the famous Golden Stairs section where stampeders hauled huge loads. There are no staffed huts; instead the United States and Canadian agencies maintain a string of designated backcountry campsites and basic facilities where hikers must sleep and cook.

Skagway is the nearest transport hub and is reachable by ferry, cruise ship and road from the Alaska Highway corridor. From Skagway a short drive or shuttle brings you to the historic trailhead at Dyea on the Taiya Inlet.

Most walkers follow the historic route from Dyea to Bennett Lake; plan logistics in advance for pickup at the lake end. You will cross an international border on the trail so carry appropriate travel documents and check current border reporting requirements before you go.

The trail is most walkable in late spring through summer, with the main public season generally from late May into early September; peak crowding and warmest weather are usually in July and August. Book reservations and your overnight backcountry permit early for peak months, as campsites are limited.

Early in the season, expect lingering snow on the pass and higher avalanche risk; later in summer sudden storms, cold nights and abundant mosquitoes in lowland sections are common. Carry gear for wet, cold conditions and be prepared to delay travel for weather.