A challenging full day adventure to climb to the top of a peak along Skagway’s White Pass. Explore the strenuous off-trail alpine terrain of wild Alaska with fantastic views.
Port: Skagway
Duration: ~8-9 hours
Activity Level: Very Strenuous
Modes of Travel: Van transportation
Min. Age: 12 years old
Min. Weight: None Max. Weight: none
Food: Sack lunch, snacks and water
Provided Equipment: trekking poles, small day pack
Recommended clothing: Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket & pants, extra warm layers, wool hat, gloves, small day pack
Wheelchair access: No
Medical Restrictions: Any pertinent medical conditions must be disclosed to the guides.
This tour is a full day adventure into an off-trail, above tree-line alpine area of White Pass. This tour is only recommended for hikers and mountain climbers looking for a challenging adventure in the wilds of Alaska.
Our trip begins with a 40 minute van ride into the mountains and up the White Pass, which borders Alaska and the Yukon Territory in Canada. After we gear up, we’ll leave the road and venture into the alpine wonderland of White Pass. The nature of the tour and route conditions varies depending on the time of the year. In May and June, the conditions on the route are likely covered in snow and will require a combination of snow-shoeing and stream crossing. Later in the season, we’ll still encounter snow up higher on the peaks, but the access route will likely be snow free and involve off-trail hiking through alpine grasses and wildflowers, scrambling on rocks and the occasional stream crossing.
Our route will cover about 6 miles and gain up to 3,000 feet in elevation. Typically, our objective is to climb to the summit of Feather Peak or Mount Cleveland, both of which stand at about 5,500 feet. Both high points offer incredible views of the surrounding jagged peaks and wilderness of White Pass. However, there are a series of high points and routes that your guide may choose from. We may use crampons, ice axes, ropes and other technical equipment to access the summit, however, there are also moderate routes to the summit that can be done without ropes. Safety is always our top priority. The exact route will depend on conditions, group ability, and guide choice. Even if the summit isn’t possible for the day, there are incredible waterfalls, and scenic views to enjoy on this alpine hiking adventure. We allow for a full 8 hours for this adventure, however timing in the mountains can be variable. We’ll be sure to get you back to your cruise ship on time.
Our mountain guides are skilled at instruction and are excited to help teach snowshoe technique and basic mountaineering skills along the way. Weather can be quite variable at the pass. It is possible to have sunshine, whiteout foggy conditions, 30mph winds, rain, and even snow all in the same day. Temperatures are likely 10-20 degrees cooler than at sea level. It is important to dress in layers, and avoid bringing cotton clothes. We operate this trip rain or shine, so good clothing and preparation is essential to thoroughly enjoy the adventurous experience. Waterproof jacket and pants, extra warm layers, and good hiking boots are essential.
*Passports are required for this tour
Timing
(~15 min) – Driving town tour of Skagway and visit to Skagway overlook
(~20 min) – Unload and head into the backcountry, crossing a few small streams
(~40 min) – Depart Skagway and drive up the White Pass
(~2 hours) – As we gain elevation, we’ll ascend an exposed ridge with some steeper snow and rock scrambling bringing us to a high point. Along the way, we’ll stop to eat snacks and have a lunch.
(~3 hours) – We’ll ascend up through tundra (or snow), taking short breaks about every hour or so. We’ll bypass a series of beautiful waterfalls, and we make our way towards the upper part of the mountain
(~2 hours) – We’ll descend back down the mountain, and back to the road.
(~40 min) – Drive back to Skagway stopping along the way for photo opportunities
FAQs
Where will I meet my guide?Your guide will meet you 15 minutes prior to the tour start time to make sure all necessary paperwork is completed. If you are arriving by cruise ship, your guide will meet you at the end of the pier that your ship docks at. Otherwise the meeting location is the Small Boat Harbor sign. CLICK HERE to see a map detailing these locations in Skagway. Your guide will be holding a sign that says “Skagway and Haines Excursions”.
Who are my guides?You guides are experts in the industry. They are fun, well-trained and passionate about guiding and sharing their expert knowledge about the history and natural wonder of Haines and Skagway, Alaska with you! Our staff all go through extensive training and hold current first-aid (mostly WFR and WEMT) certification. Many of our guides also lead courses and guided expedition trips for us both in Alaska and throughout the world.
Is there a bathroom?The only bathroom is located at the dock. Once we depart Skagway, we’ll be in the wilderness.
Do you cancel due to weather?Our tours embrace Southeast Alaska’s unpredictable weather. Our tours run rain or shine. If in a rare instance weather does cause us to cancel the tour you will be refunded in full and provided with assistance with finding an alternative activity for the day.
What do i need to bring?Bring waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket. Sturdy hiking boots (ideally waterproof) are essential. Bring extra warm layers. Do not bring any cotton clothing. Bring a small day pack to carry water and snacks and extra clothing. Bring a wool hat and warm gloves. Bring an extra pair of socks (as your feet may get wet during the day). We will provide trekking poles. We also have some extra warm layers if for any reason you don’t have enough. Don’t forget your passport.
