Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure

Skagway , United States

Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure

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(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your trip to the Laughton Glacier combines a scenic train ride aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a wilderness hike to the magnificent Laughton Glacier where you have an opportunity to HIKE ON A GLACIER! This is an out-and-back trail through the Tongass National Forest. The hiking speed of each tour determines the length of the hike, typically the whole hike is 6-8 miles.

For 33 Years Packer Expeditions has been Skagway's premiere Eco Tourism Agency! We've grown alongside Alaska's robust tourism and cruise community and have dialed in our services to be THE BEST Eco tour, ANYWHERE in the world!

The Laughton Glacier trail is world-class, not only because of the hard work and dedication of the Juneau Ranger District of the Tongass National Forest but also because Packer Expeditions has invested countless days into trail improvements and maintenance. This trail exists as a testament to the care and love that our guides have poured in over 3 decades of tours!

Available options

Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure

What's included

Our lunches are premade to order by a local restaurant!

We provide lumbar packs as well as ice creepers, trekking poles, rain gear and warm layers.

**PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED**

Our train ride at the beginning and end of the tour includes a restroom for all guests.

All guests receive assorted snacks (trail mix, granola bars, candy bars and fruit gummies.) Don't worry if you get jealous of other peoples candy bars, our guides carry plenty of extra for everyone!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

All Aboard! Our journey begins on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, the only way to get to the Laughton Glacier Trailhead without chartering a helicopter.

While on board, you will receive your lunch sandwich, snacks and water in a provided lumbar pack to bring with you on your journey. Enjoy the breathtaking mountain views from the train as you ride along this historic railroad. Get to know your guide, listen in to the world class narration on board and get ready to go hiking!

At the end of our hike we will ride the same train back to Skagway, so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Once the WP&YR drops us off at the trailhead, we will gear up to get going! After a brief safety talk, get outfitted with what you need to succeed on the trail! (All clients are provided with ice creepers for traversing the glacier ice, and trekking poles if they desire.)

At the end of our hike, we will stow our gear and take a much deserved rest as we await the WP&YR to pick us up and take us back to Skagway.

The Laughton Glacier sits approximately 3 miles from the Laughton Glacier Trailhead. Our tour hikes to the Glacier where we then gear up with provided Ice Creepers and then hike on the glacier! We explore the glacier and all the amazing features it has to offer. From bubbling glacier water flows, moulins plunging into the darkness, crevasses scarring the glacial landscape and even sometimes mysterious fountains of ice water. After we take a rest to enjoy the stunning landscape and eat lunch, we start our journey back to the trailhead to catch our train back to Skagway.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet your guide near the Centennial Statue, next to the Locomotive 52 Display on Broadway. Please be 10 minutes early so one of our guides can meet you there, verify your tickets, see your Passports and then the adventure begins!

About Skagway

Skagway is a historic gold rush town nestled in the Alaska Panhandle. Known for its well-preserved wooden boardwalks, charming shops, and rich Klondike Gold Rush history, it offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and historical intrigue. The town is a popular stop for cruise ships and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.

Top Attractions

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

This park preserves the historic buildings and artifacts from the Klondike Gold Rush era. Visitors can explore museums, historic buildings, and scenic trails.

Historical 2-4 hours Free (some exhibits may have fees)

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

A historic narrow-gauge railroad offering scenic trips through the White Pass. The journey features breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Adventure 4-8 hours (round trip) $100-$200 per person

Skagway Museum and Archives

This museum showcases the history of Skagway through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts. It provides a deep dive into the town's gold rush past.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

King Crab

Freshly caught king crab, often served steamed or in bisque.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Salmon

Grilled or smoked salmon, a staple of Alaskan cuisine.

Main Course Contains fish

Bannock

A traditional bread often served with jam or butter.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Wildlife viewing Train rides Scenic walks Boat tours Dining Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Skagway due to pleasant weather and the peak of the cruise ship season. The town is vibrant with activities, and all attractions are open.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Skagway is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, travelers should always be cautious and aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of wildlife on roads
• Stay on marked trails when hiking

Getting there

By air

Haines Airport • 30 miles
Juneau International Airport • 100 miles

By train

Skagway Depot

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttles are available for transportation to popular attractions and nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Skagway Small Boat Harbor

Day trips

Haines

30 miles • Half day

A charming town known for its art galleries, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Skagway Days • July

Pro tips

Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park for a deep dive into the town's history.
Take a train ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad for stunning views and historical commentary.
Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and shops in downtown Skagway.
Try local seafood dishes, particularly king crab and salmon.
Book accommodations and popular tours in advance, especially during peak season.