moderate
approximately 10 hours
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable hiking up to 8 miles over varied terrain.
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.
Ages 8+ • 10 Hours
9.75 hours
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.
Alaskan weather can shift quickly—dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
Expect rugged terrain and boulder fields near the glacier; solid ankle support is crucial.
Capture glacier formations and wildlife encounters; cold weather drains battery life fast.
Carry water bottles and take advantage of rest breaks; hydration keeps energy steady on the trail.
The White Pass Railway, integral to the Klondike Gold Rush, frames the journey and connects visitors to Alaska’s frontier past.
Packer Expeditions emphasizes low-impact hiking and provides guests with education about glacier ecology and local wildlife preservation.
Protects feet and provides traction on rocky and potentially wet trail sections.
Keeps you warm during cooler temperatures, especially near the glacier.
fall specific
Ensures you stay hydrated during the long hike and glacier stop.
Captures stunning glacier and wildlife photos; batteries last less in cold conditions.