Chilkoot Trail

The Chilkoot Trail runs 33 miles from the Dyea trailhead, about 10 miles from Skagway, over Chilkoot Pass (roughly the halfway point and the US-Canada border) to Bennett, British Columbia, with about 3,500 feet of gain and nine campgrounds. It was the main route for stampeders in 1897 and 1898 and was designated the Chilkoot National Historic Trail in 2022. For 2026 crossing the border on the trail is not allowed, so hikers travel out and back on one side; check current rules before planning. Overnight hikers need a permit from Recreation.gov ($20 per group for the trip; fees waived April 15 to May 31 and September 14 to October 31), validated at a mandatory orientation at the Trail Center on Broadway between 5th and 6th. There is no cell service. Popular day hikes from Dyea include Saintly Hill (2 miles round trip), Beaver Ponds (6 miles) and Finnegan's Point (10 miles). Black and brown bears fish the Taiya River salmon runs from July to September. Brown and black bears use this area; make noise, carry bear spray and keep food secured.