Alaska is the last frontier in the US. Largely unexplored and wild the state is enormous. Its about a third the size on the continental United States and has more states parks than other state by far. As a result, there is some of the best camping in the world here. The Chilkoot trail is world renowned as being one of the best locations for camping and hiking.
The trail extends from Dyea, Alaska to Bennett, British Columbia. This American and Canadian trail follows through the Coast Mountains. It is located in what is now known as the Klondike Gold Rush International Historical Park. The Chilkoot Trail is one that takes around 33 miles and can take around 5 days to complete the entire trek.
Dyea to Finnegan’s Point
This part of the hike is around 7 miles, where you will come across mossy sites and stunning wildflowers as you travel along the Taiya River. Since this is a popular trail, it is very well-maintained for this cottonwood rainforest. It rains frequently here in the summer, be sure to bring a rain gear like waterproof pants, coats and hiking boots.
The campsite here was quite gorgeous, offering breathtaking glacial views of the area. Just seeing beginning leg of this trail will show you just how beautiful the rest of your hike is going to be. This is a primitive campsite with no amenities, be sure to bring your own camping stove or better yet a packable backpacking stove.
Canyon City to Sheep Camp
The next part of your journey is about 8 miles long and takes you to Canyon City. This is a significant location because you can see remnants of the Gold Rush that took place in this historic location. You will cross a suspension bridge that will help to make this a truly memorable adventure. You will follow along a river that offers the perfect view and soundtrack for this calm adventure. When you finally get to Sheep Camp, you will settle in next to the river.
The Golden Stairs
While the next part is only around 7 miles, it is really the incline that you have to worry about here. This part will take you across the American border into Canada and brings 2,000 feet of elevation with it. This will take you to Happy Camp as you pass from the rainforest into the Alpine area of this path. You will find Crater Lake when you get to this part of the journey, which is really a majestic sight to see. This is a very rocky area, which calms down as you head closer to Happy Camp.
Bear Loon Lake
It will take around 9 miles to get to Bear Loon Lake as you walk through an alpine tundra until you come across this campsite. Along the way, you may come across some of the gorgeous wildlife that this location has to offer, including bears, waterfowl, and golden eagles. The stunning views that you get of this area from the campsite will make you sad that your journey is about over.
Lake Bennett and White Pass Yukon Route Railway
The final leg of this trail is only about 4 miles of hiking but you will definitely get an experience during the rest of your journey home. You will hike around to Lake Bennett and take in this breathtaking sight before you head off to the railway, where you can get a scenic view of this gorgeous area as you travel to Carcross before going back to where you started.
Important Note
You will need to obtain a permit before you take on this adventure.