Laughton Glacier Snowshoe Expedition

No previous experience snowshoeing is required, however, this is a moderately strenuous hike and guests should be in good physical condition.

With no more than six guests per guide, you can expect exceptional customer service.

This trip combines a scenic rail journey aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a wilderness snowshoe trek toward the magnificent Laughton Glacier, an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Itinerary

You will board the train for a nearly one-hour scenic journey filled with spectacular waterfalls, rushing rivers, jagged mountain peaks and complemented by Klondike Gold Rush history. At Glacier Station, guides will outfit you with snowshoes and other gear before you begin a fully guided and narrated three- to five-mile round trip snowshoe hike. Revel in the clean mountain air, amidst the surreal beauty of an old-growth forest.

The magnificent, snow-blanketed, sub-alpine rainforest valley is home to an abundance of moose, bear, mountain goats and other wild animals.

This spectacular trail winds along the raging Skagway River, where you will take memorable photos before continuing toward a smaller valley containing the Laughton Glacier. The canopy opens as you leave the forest and reach a panoramic viewpoint known as “the lookout”. This is where you can take a break as well as photos while enjoying the breathtaking views of Alaska’s winter wonderland in the spring.

From here, some may choose to continue a ways toward the majestic Laughton Glacier, while others may make this the apex of the hike. Whatever you choose, you’ll be invigorated by the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilds and be offered hot drinks by your guides.

Upon your return to the trailhead, you will be greeted with our traditional “Bush Buffet”, complete with snacks and assorted beverages. Finally, enjoy a relaxing train ride back to Skagway on “The Scenic Railway of the World.” 

You’ll need a valid passport because the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway briefly travels through Canadian territory on the way to and from Glacier Station. Even though you won’t leave the train or go through customs in Canada, a passport is required for re-entry into the United States as part of border regulations.

The Laughton Glacier Snowshoe Expedition follows a beautiful route along the Laughton Glacier Trail, leading to scenic viewpoints overlooking the glacier. Depending on snow and weather conditions, you may continue closer to the glacier’s base; however, this tour does not go directly onto the glacier. Guests will enjoy incredible panoramic views of the ice and surrounding peaks without traveling on the glacier itself.

The Laughton Glacier Trail is located in the Tongass National Forest, near Skagway, Alaska. This remote wilderness area is only accessible by train via the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, making it one of the most exclusive glacier hikes in Alaska.

The Laughton Glacier Snowshoe Expedition is considered moderate, covering 3–5 miles round trip through snow-covered forest terrain. While no snowshoeing experience is needed, guests should be comfortable hiking for several hours in winter conditions.

Yes — you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Laughton Glacier from designated viewpoints and may continue closer to its base depending on snow depth and conditions. The scenery offers breathtaking photo opportunities of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

This trip combines a scenic rail journey with a guided snowshoe adventure deep in Alaska’s backcountry. The Laughton Glacier trail is only accessible by train, meaning you’ll experience untouched winter wilderness far from the crowds.

This seasonal tour operates in spring, when snow blankets the valley and conditions are ideal for snowshoeing. For late-summer travelers, the Laughton Glacier Hiking Expedition offers a similar experience without snow.