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The Chilkoot Trail: An Epic 33-Mile Hike Embark on a thrilling 33-mile adventure from the captivating coast of Dyea, Alaska to the breathtaking Lake Bennett in British Columbia. This remarkable trail takes you through two stunning national parks: the Alaska portion governed by the National Park Service and the Canadian section managed by Parks Canada. Before you set off, make sure to obtain a permit, which can be reserved in advance or obtained at the Trail Center in Skagway, Alaska. In Whitehorse, Yukon, there is another Parks Canada office, located about 110 miles north of Skagway along the magnificent Klondike Highway. To get to the trailhead, Skagway is just 9 miles away and can be reached via a road. Shuttle vans are available to transport you there. Conveniently, there is a long-term hikers parking lot in Dyea, situated near the trail's start. However, keep in mind that while Skagway has small markets for food, Dyea does not. Not to worry, though. The Mountain Shop on 4th street has you covered with equipment rentals and hiker's food. Explore the Klondike Goldrush National Historic Park in downtown Skagway, where you can visit the visitor's center. Located on 2nd and Broadway, it is just across from the Trail Center. Here, you can gather valuable trail information, obtain permits, and receive assistance from the knowledgeable staff members, who represent both Parks Canada and the National Park Service. They will guide you through the permit and border crossing logistics, transportation options, safety in bear country, and the principles of minimum impact and leaving no trace behind. The Chilkoot Trail is not your ordinary hiking route. In just 33 miles, you will transition from the captivating coastal temperate rainforest to the enchanting interior sub-boreal forest. The ultimate challenge awaits as you conquer the famous Chilkoot Pass, marking the border between the USA and Canada, and continue your journey through mesmerizing sub-alpine and alpine zones. In the summer months from mid-May to mid-September, backcountry rangers and wardens patrol the trail, ensuring your safety. Trail crews also work diligently to maintain the route. However, be prepared for potentially significant snow-covered sections in the spring, as avalanche conditions may exist. Along the trail, you will find designated backcountry campsites where you can rest and soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings. As you embark on this historic trail, envision yourself retracing the steps of gold-hungry stampeders during the legendary Klondike Goldrush of 1898. This trail served as a vital route for those who traveled up the Inside Passage to Skagway and Dyea, carrying a year's supply of food and gear, famously known as a "ton of goods." Upon reaching Lake Bennett, they built boats and embarked on an over 500-mile journey down the Yukon River to the Klondike goldfields in Dawson City. However, the trail's history dates back even further as an important trading route for the indigenous Tlingit first nation peoples, whose rich cultural heritage still thrives in the Southeast Alaska region. The Chilkoot Trail not only offers a glimpse into history but also treats you to diverse and awe-inspiring scenery. Covering a relatively short distance, it demands fitness and readiness for a true adventure. Are you ready to take on the Chilkoot trail? Yukon Ho!

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Popular Foods

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and a generous amount of gravy. This dish originates from the province of Quebec but is now widely enjoyed across Canada. It's typically a non-spicy, warm, and filling meal.

Smoked salmon is a popular food item in Canada, particularly in British Columbia where the Pacific salmon is abundant. The salmon is cured with salt and sugar, then cold-smoked over wood chips to enhance its flavor. It's often served as an appetizer, accompanied by cream cheese, bagels, or crackers. The dish offers a mixture of savory and slightly smoky taste, making it a refreshing choice.

Butter tarts are a sweet and flaky dessert native to Canada, particularly popular in the prairie provinces. A butter tart consists of a pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and syrup, often with added raisins or pecans. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them a beloved Canadian treat.

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