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Dyea Trail Hike & Float

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Description

A guided hike through the rainforest provides a great opportunity to get some energy out, learn about the area, and experience firsthand the infamous Chilkoot Trail. The 2-mile, one-way hike culminates at the Taiya River where your raft awaits for a peaceful river float. All along the way, your local expert guide recounts tales of the Gold Rush history as you enjoy the beautiful scenery. This combination tour allows you to enjoy the outdoors and discover why Alaska lured you here to begin with!

Starting with a scenic 10-mile drive out to the historic town of Dyea, the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float begins as your guide narrates during the short bus ride that travels along the northern tip of the Taiya Inlet. It's not uncommon to see eagles and even seals here, and you'll actually pass right by the start of the Chilkoot Trail which was the notoriously arduous path taken by thousands of prospectors a century ago in hopes of striking gold. The hike begins, meandering through the old-growth rainforest that's filled with spectacular flora and fauna. This section of the trail is considered moderate in difficulty, with an elevation gain of about 300 ft over 2 miles of natural terrain. Here, the guide supplements the history with tidbits about this lush, wet ecological zone.

The hike culminates right at the river where your boat awaits. Climb aboard the sturdy raft for a peaceful float down the Taiya River, which is fed by high-mountain glacial streams. Depending on the time of year, bald eagles can be prominent, and the surrounding views resonate Alaska's raw beauty. Enjoy a riverside snack after the float before heading back to Skagway, where you'll still have plenty of time to explore the town or even join another tour.

Add a bicycle ride to this tour with the Skagway Triple Adventure, a great combination!

What's Included

On this adventure, you'll explore the abandoned Gold Rush townsite of Dyea on a walk through nature and history. Now returned to the forest, you can imagine the boomtown of the Klondike Gold Rush era as you walk the trails of the old town and glimpse a few relics of the past. There is much cultural history here as well with native Tlingit use of Dyea as a fishing camp and staging area for trading trips on the Chilkoot Trail. You will also learn about our region's varied flora, fauna, and geography and have time to take photos. After the hike, we drive to the rafting put-in and suit up in life jackets and rubber boots to 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 small snack (granola bar). Sit back and enjoy the scenic ride back to Skagway!

Frequently Asked Questions

What will the weather be like?

One thing that is predictable about Alaskan coastal weather is that the weather can be variable. In the course of the day we can see sun, drizzle, sun, clouds and everything in between. Our tours are very rarely due to weather as the conditions are typically fleeting. The classic saying is that if you don't like the Skagway weather now, just wait 45 minutes. A sunny, warm day might end up rainy and vice versa.

Will we get wet on the rafting ride?

No, this tour is a scenic and mellow float tour and does not contain any whitewater or rapids. Ponchos can be supplied if there is a drizzle but we recommend bringing your camera along as there is no worries about splashing water.

What's the largest group size?

The maximum group size that the rafts can hold is 11 people.

How difficult is the hike?

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 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.

Quick Facts

Skagway

RecreationStaff Pick

4h 00min

The minimum age for participants is 4 years old.

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship’s schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees.

$134

$114