Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure
Overview
Available languages
9 hours 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Your trip to the Laughton Glacier combines a scenic train ride aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a wilderness hike to the magnificent Laughton Glacier where you have an opportunity to HIKE ON A GLACIER! This is an out-and-back trail through the Tongass National Forest. The hiking speed of each tour determines the length of the hike, typically the whole hike is 6-8 miles.
For 33 Years Packer Expeditions has been Skagway's premiere Eco Tourism Agency! We've grown alongside Alaska's robust tourism and cruise community and have dialed in our services to be THE BEST Eco tour, ANYWHERE in the world!
The Laughton Glacier trail is world-class, not only because of the hard work and dedication of the Juneau Ranger District of the Tongass National Forest but also because Packer Expeditions has invested countless days into trail improvements and maintenance. This trail exists as a testament to the care and love that our guides have poured in over 3 decades of tours!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
All Aboard! Our journey begins on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, the only way to get to the Laughton Glacier Trailhead without chartering a helicopter. While on board, you will receive your lunch sandwich, snacks and water in a provided lumbar pack to bring with you on your journey. Enjoy the breathtaking mountain views from the train as you ride along this historic railroad. Get to know your guide, listen in to the world class narration on board and get ready to go hiking! At the end of our hike we will ride the same train back to Skagway, so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!
Once the WP&YR drops us off at the trailhead, we will gear up to get going! After a brief safety talk, get outfitted with what you need to succeed on the trail! (All clients are provided with ice creepers for traversing the glacier ice, and trekking poles if they desire.) At the end of our hike, we will stow our gear and take a much deserved rest as we await the WP&YR to pick us up and take us back to Skagway.
What‘s Included
Our lunches are premade to order by a local restaurant!
We provide lumbar packs as well as ice creepers, trekking poles, rain gear and warm layers.
**PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED**
Our train ride at the beginning and end of the tour includes a restroom for all guests.
All guests receive assorted snacks (trail mix, granola bars, candy bars and fruit gummies.) Don't worry if you get jealous of other peoples candy bars, our guides carry plenty of extra for everyone!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure
Reviews
21 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
You should do this!
Benjie F,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We loved this from start to finish! Guides, train ride, waterfalls, rivers, snowshoeing, glacier, lunch on a glacier, "sledding", nature...everything. It was a tiring day, but a rewarding and fulfilling one. You can travel through Alaska or you can experience Alaksa! You should experience it with Austin and Sam. They were great and we loved the whole experience.
Hidden treasure off the beaten path!
Trish W,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00If you are ready for an adventure away from the crowds then this is the activity for you. It was a great workout hiking and snowshoeing up with a fabulous glacier as the payoff. Austin and Sam are knowledgeable and personable guides. We felt like we were in great hands. Highly recommended for those looking for something literally off the beaten path.
Highly Skilled, Informative and very personable.
annabL997RT,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Austin (Owner) and Sami were amazing. If I could give them 10 stars I would. They made us feel like family and because of my knees bothering me and my overall I'm out of shape, Austin took the time to let me go at a speed that was best for me. He was highly skilled, gave us some history along the way, very informative and he is wonderful. It was spectacular and breath taking everywhere you looked. We are planning another trip to Alaska and if we get anywhere close we will definitely be going on this one again. You can also book your excursion directly through them and it is just as amazing. The did provide everything we needed for the hike, including lunch. Thanks to Austin and Sami for being such awesome people!
Laughton glacier in May
markhM72ZD,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a great experience. A little too strenuous in May but June or July would be perfect. I would do it again but a little later in the year
10/10 5-Star!!!
Jessica D,May 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00If you go to Skagway, this is a must do! Our tour guide, Ms. Sam was incredible. She took time to answer any questions, taught us about the landscape and about the glacier and most importantly, kept everyone safe. Austin, was equally incredible. He was shoveling snow and ice and creating safe walkways and paths for us during our decent. I would definitely recommend! Thank you Sam and Austin! You both crushed it!
Wonderful off-the beaten track hike
856abigailm,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Austin and Sam led a small group of us on a snow-shoe trip towards the glacier. They are so knowledgeable and friendly. And they took good care of us. It was wonderful to get out into the back country. I'd highly recommend the tour.
Authentic, Refreshing, and Absolutely Worth It
Curiosity14975310768,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An absolutely fabulous experience from start to finish. The admission fee felt very fair for everything included, and the length of the excursion was perfect — though you definitely need to be in good physical shape if there’s snow. The atmosphere was refreshing, spontaneous, and genuinely enjoyable, without the overly commercial, corporate-tour feeling. The group size was ideal as well, around 10 people, which made the whole experience feel personal and manageable. The guides were, together with the breathtaking landscapes, the highlight of the trip. Friendly, professional, and passionate, they made the adventure truly unforgettable. Best for people who are physically fit, love nature, and are looking for a real outdoor adventure.
Breathtaking
jordanhJ9992VL,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Outstanding experience, Austin is an amazing guide and will shower you with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom the view ain’t to bad either!!
I thoroughly enjoyed the...
Abigail M,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I thoroughly enjoyed the snow shoe walk up the Laughton Glacier path. It was hard work but worth it. If you are not fit then, in winter, when you need to use snow shoes, you might find it challenging. Austin and Sam, the trek leaders, we're very knowledgeable, great fun and very encouraging.
Outstanding family full-day experience!
Katiezhongguo,Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time. Our tour guide was amazing and gave us an incredible overview about the ecology of the region, local vegetation, and the history of the glacier. It was an absolutely phenomenal day!
From US$400.00
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