Guide to Planning Your Hike

Note for 2022 season: Although the US and Canadian side of the trail are both open, crossing the Canadian/US border while hiking the Chilkoot Trail is currently prohibited for the 2022 season. Please continue to check back for updates.

Reservations are managed by Parks Canada. To make a reservation, call 1-800-661-0486 or visit the Parks Canada website at: Permits and reservations - Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site (pc.gc.ca)

From the US side of the trail, hikers can recreate from the trailhead to the Chilkoot Pass, but must turn around at the summit if not sooner, and hike out via the trail head in Dyea.

The Chilkoot Trail is a 33 mile long recreational trail. Each summer over 10,000 people hike some or all of it. The majority of visitors day hike on the trail for just a few hours. Others spend an average of 3-5 days backpacking the entire trail. Each year a few hearty people run the trail in one stretch. Ready to tackle the Chilkoot? This guide will get you started.

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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.

Step-by-step planning guide

First, reserve your permit

Permits are needed:

for overnight hiking June 1 - September 13, even if you are not crossing the border
for any day trip with travel in Canada, this includes trail runners doing the entire trail in one day

Reservations for summer 2022 begin April 25, 2022. Learn how to get a permit.

Once you have your permit, work on the details

decide how to get to the trail, located 10 miles from Skagway. As of spring 2021 shuttle service to the trailhead can be purchased from Tru Moore Services 907-612-8024. If you are leaving a vehicle in Dyea, you must park in the National Park Service campground overnight parking area. Vehicles cannot be parked overnight at the trailhead
if you're planning to take your dog, review our tips for hiking with dogs
learn how to stay safe on the trail with lots of rain, a steep pass, and remote conditions
preview your hike by browsing our Chilkoot Trail photo galleries or exploring trail campgrounds

Before you start hiking

review how to Leave No Trace on the Chilkoot Trail
pack all of your hiking and camping gear
become bear aware, learn about bear safety on the trail
review the park's Laws & Policies. Remember, it is illegal to possess or use marijuana and other controlled substances inside a National Park Service unit
check the latest Chilkoot Trail conditions report, including current weather at some locations
pick up your permit and check in at the Trail Center in Skagway, located on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues. During permit season trail orientations, conducted at the Trail Center, are mandatory. Please allow approximately 30 minutes for an orientation. Everyone hiking must attend, not just the permit holder. Day runners need to pick up their permit a day in advance or before noon the day they want to start.

More hike planning resources

Chilkoot Trail Campgrounds

Choose your camp spots from 9 campgrounds along the trail.
Trail Conditions Report

Get the latest weather information, check webcams at the pass, or read about weekly summer trail conditions.
How to get your Chilkoot permit

Find out what you need to know and how to make a reservation for your Chilkoot Trail hike.
Chilkoot Trail Gear List

Things you'll want for hiking, camping, and making the most of your Chilkoot Trail hike.
Chilkoot Trail photos

Explore the Chilkoot Trail through pictures taken by hikers
Hiking with your dog

Plan your hike for your furry best friend with this dog hiking guide.
The Chilkoot Trail Center

The information center for the Chilkoot Trail. Stop by to get your trail permit, see a bear awareness video, and get your trail orientation.
Bear safety at Klondike

Staying safe in bear country
Chilkoot Trail Artist in Residence

Each year artists-in-residence spend 2 weeks hiking the trail. Learn more about past and present artists and how to apply.