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Laughton Glacier Expedition with Packer Expeditions - Skagway

Laughton Glacier Expedition with Packer Expeditions

Skagwaymoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

approximately 10 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable hiking up to 8 miles over varied terrain.

Overview

Journey from Skagway’s scenic rails to ancient ice fields with Packer Expeditions’ Laughton Glacier Expedition. Hike through wild river valleys and soak in glacier vistas on this full-day Alaskan adventure.

Skagway, Alaska

Laughton Glacier Expedition

Ages 8+ • 10 Hours

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About This Adventure

Unveil the Wonders of Skagway

Duration

9.75 hours

About

You will board the train for a nearly one-hour journey on the White Pass scenic railway, filled with spectacular waterfalls, rushing rivers, jagged mountain peaks, and complemented by Klondike Gold Rush history. At Glacier Station, you will begin a fully guided round-trip hike of up to eight miles, in the clean mountain air.

Your hike begins on a well-maintained trail meandering through the surreal beauty of an old-growth rainforest valley that is home to an abundance of moose, bear, mountain goats and other wild animals.

The trail winds along the raging Skagway River, meeting it in places where you will take memorable photos before you turn into the valley containing the majestic Laughton Glacier. You will take a break at the “lookout” and bask in the splendor of the 360-degree views available there.

Leaving the lookout and proceeding toward the glacier, you will notice that the route has become more rugged, though still manageable. Approaching the glacier, the terrain changes dramatically as you leave the rocky riverbed and pick your way through a boulder field and onto the glacier.

You are certain to enjoy the breathtaking views, exposed crevasses and moulins, and other fascinating features of the great frozen river of ice, ever-changing in the harsh Alaskan environment. Hot drinks will be offered by your guides while you are perched on the glacier. Upon return to the trailhead, you will be greeted with our traditional “Bush Buffet”, complete with cold beverages.

Relax and enjoy the ride back to town on “The Scenic Railway of the World”. With a ratio of no more than six guests per guide, you will receive extraordinary customer service.

In May and early June, glacier travel may be limited or impossible due to snow on the glacier.

Adventure Tips

Layer up for changing weather

Alaskan weather can shift quickly—dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring a waterproof jacket.

Wear sturdy hiking boots

Expect rugged terrain and boulder fields near the glacier; solid ankle support is crucial.

Bring a camera with extra batteries

Capture glacier formations and wildlife encounters; cold weather drains battery life fast.

Stay hydrated during the hike

Carry water bottles and take advantage of rest breaks; hydration keeps energy steady on the trail.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Moose
  • Mountain goats

History

The White Pass Railway, integral to the Klondike Gold Rush, frames the journey and connects visitors to Alaska’s frontier past.

Conservation

Packer Expeditions emphasizes low-impact hiking and provides guests with education about glacier ecology and local wildlife preservation.

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Adventure Hotspots in Skagway

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof hiking boots

Essential

Protects feet and provides traction on rocky and potentially wet trail sections.

Insulated jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler temperatures, especially near the glacier.

fall specific

Water bottle or hydration pack

Essential

Ensures you stay hydrated during the long hike and glacier stop.

Camera with extra batteries

Captures stunning glacier and wildlife photos; batteries last less in cold conditions.