Guide to Planning Your Hike

Trail Information for 2026

In 2026, hikers can hike the trail on the U.S. or Canadian sides only and must turn around at the border. It is illegal to cross the international border between Canada and the United States via the Chilkoot Trail. 

Between June 1 - Sept 12, a validated permit is required for overnight hikers. Camping is solely allowed in the designated campgrounds. Only one permit per group is necessary. Reserve a permit for the U.S. side of the trail via Recreation.gov. To validate the permit, all members of the hiking group must attend a mandatory safety orientation at the Trail Center in Skagway.

For more information on hiking the Chilkoot Trail, visit Parks Canda's webpage. 

 

The Chilkoot Trail is a 33 mile (53 km) international trail that starts at Dyea, AK and ends at Bennett, BC. There are nine campgrounds along the trail and an elevation gain of about 3500 feet (1000 meters) over the entire trail. Chilkoot Pass roughly marks the halfway point and is also the marker for the international border between the US and Canada.

Chilkoot Trailhead

The Chilkoot Trailhead is on the US side of the Chilkoot Trail. It is located north of the Dyea townsite, about 10 miles (16 km) from Skagway, and is accessible by road.

Bennett

Bennett is the northern trailhead of the Chilkoot Trail. Access to and from Bennett is limited to train, air taxi, or boat. If beginning or concluding your hike in Bennett, speak to your carrier to arrange logistics for your departure. Walking on the train tracks is against the law.

For information on hiking the Canadian side of the trail, visit Parks Canada’s website.

There is no cellular service anywhere within the Chilkoot Trail, including Bennett. You must arrange transportation in advance. Bring a satellite-enabled communication device to communicate with your carrier at the end of your hike.

 

Chilkoot Trail Planning Guide with No International Border Crossing

Hikers starting on the US side can hike the Chilkoot Trail up to the US / Canada border then turn around. It is illegal to cross the international border in either direction at Chilkoot Pass. 

Reserve your permit

Attend Orientation and Validate Permit

Getting on the Trail

 

For the U.S. side of the trail, print your permit ahead of time, then bring it to the Trail Center in Skagway for validation. To validate the permit, all members of the group must attend a safety orientation at the Trail Center.

 

Duration:

5 minutes, 50 seconds

This short video brings to light the common risks and challenges that hikers may encounter on the trail. If you are interested in hiking the Chilkoot Trail check out this video to see if you are up to the challenge. Happy Trails.