Embark on an Unforgettable Forest Adventure

Duration

8 Hours

About

Denver Valley Wilderness Hike & White Pass Railway Adventure

This trip combines an impressive 27.7-mile scenic rail journey aboard the Historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, “The Scenic Railway of the World,” with a 5-mile round-trip wilderness hike to Elway Falls in the lush old-growth forest of the Denver Valley. The rail portion of your trip will be split into two parts—before and after the hike. This world-renowned railway adventure carries you up and over the White Pass Summit, complete with waterfalls, rushing rivers, trestles, and tunnels as you trace portions of the original trail of '98.

After disembarking at Denver Station, a short safety briefing and gear-up will prepare you for your forest adventure. Leaving the trailhead, your experienced, knowledgeable, and professional guides will lead you through a glacially carved valley filled with dense temperate rainforest and old-growth Western Hemlock and Sitka Spruce trees. The trail follows the raging East Fork of the Skagway River, providing excellent photo opportunities along the way. Be alert for wildlife, as the remote valley is home to bears, moose, mountain goats, and other species.

From the river valley floor, you’ll gaze at the magnificent, craggy peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains rising 7,000 feet above sea level—making this valley deeper than the Grand Canyon. Your narrated hike will introduce you to the flora, fauna, and history that make the region unique. Hiking through the pristine old growth of the Tongass National Forest will leave you awed by 1,000-year-old trees, and photo stops by the river and at Denver Falls will be highlights of this perfect mix of exercise and natural beauty. Strong hikers may reach views of the Denver Glacier in the upper valley.

With no more than six guests per guide, you’ll receive exceptional customer service. Guides carry rain gear, extra warm clothing, sunblock, and bug repellent so you don’t have to. A small lumbar pack with snacks and water is also provided. A bus ride back to Skagway completes your exploration.

Guests should be in good physical condition, able to walk over uneven terrain—including rocks and tree roots—and be prepared to hike in all weather conditions. Dressing in layers is recommended. Shoes or boots with ankle support are suggested but not required.

Trip may run in reverse order, with the bus portion first and train and hike after.

Suggested Clothing: Dress in layers; temperatures range between 50–75°F. Hiking boots or shoes with ankle support are recommended; walking or athletic shoes are acceptable.

Duration: 7.75 hours, including 4.25 hours of hiking.

Equipment Provided: Lumbar packs, trekking poles, rain gear, hats, and gloves. Guides also carry extra warm clothing, sunblock, and bug repellent.

Refreshments:

Made to order lunch sandwich made by a local restaurant as well as assorted snacks for each guest.

Passport Required: Some nationalities may need a visa to enter Canada.