Guide to Planning Your Hike

Trail Information for 2025

In 2025, hikers can hike the trail on the U.S. or Canadian sides only and must turn around at the border. It is illegal to cross the international border between Canada and the United States via the Chilkoot Trail. 

A permit will be required for overnight hikers. Camping is solely allowed in the designated campgrounds. Only one permit per group is necessary. For more information on hiking the Chilkoot Trail, visit Parks Canda's webpage. 

 

The Chilkoot Trail is a 33 mile (53 km) international trail that starts at Dyea, AK and ends at Bennett, BC. There are nine campgrounds along the trail and an elevation gain of about 3500 feet (1000 meters) over the entire trail. Chilkoot Pass roughly marks the halfway point and is also the marker for the international border between the US and Canada.

For information on hiking the Canadian side of the trail, visit Parks Canada’s website.

Chilkoot Trailhead

The Chilkoot Trailhead is on the US side of the Chilkoot Trail. It is located north of the Dyea townsite, about 10 miles (16 km) from Skagway, and is accessible by road.

Bennett

Bennett is the northern trailhead of the Chilkoot Trail. Access to and from Bennett is limited to train, air taxi, or boat. If beginning or concluding your hike in Bennett, speak to your carrier to arrange logistics for your departure. Walking on the train tracks is against the law.

There is no cellular service anywhere within the Chilkoot Trail, including Bennett. You must arrange transportation in advance. Bring a satellite-enabled communication device to communicate with your carrier at the end of your hike.

 

Chilkoot Trail Planning Guide with No International Border Crossing

Hikers starting on the US side can hike the Chilkoot Trail up to the US / Canada border then turn around. It is illegal to cross the international border in either direction at Chilkoot Pass. 

Reserve your permit

A permit is required for all overnight users. Camping is solely allowed in the designated campgrounds. Only one permit per group is necessary.

US-side Only:

Reservations for permits can be obtained online through reservations.pc.gc.ca and by phone at 1-877-RESERVE or 1-519-826-5391 (outside North America).

Canadian-side Only:

Reservations for permits can be obtained online through reservations.pc.gc.ca and by phone at 1-877-RESERVE or 1-519-826-5391 (outside North America).

It is illegal to cross the international border in either direction at the Chilkoot Pass.

When reserving a permit you will need to:

• choose your dates on the trail 
• select your campgrounds 
• number of nights on the trail 
• number of tents 
• number of hikers
• emergency contact information
• pay for the permit with a credit card 

Fees

Pre-hiking season	April 15 - May 31	Fees are waived, but campers still need to reserve a permit.
Summer hiking season	June 1 – September 13	Permits and associated fees are required for all overnight campers and day users on the Canada portion of the Chilkoot Trail.
Post-hiking season	September 14 – October 31	Fees are waived, but campers still need to reserve a permit.

Getting on the Trail

Arriving to the Chilkoot Trailhead

The Chilkoot Trailhead is about 10 miles (16 km) from Skagway. Arrange transportation to the Chilkoot Trailhead ahead of time.

If you are leaving a vehicle in Dyea, you must park in Chilkoot Trailhead parking area. 

Pick Up Permit and Trail Orientation

Visit the Trail Center in Skagway, located on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues.

• Pick up your permit
• Every hiker, not just the permit holder, must attend a mandatory orientation during the summer hiking season. Please allow approximately 30 minutes for an orientation. 
• Trail runners need to pick up their permit a day in advance or before noon the day they want to start.

After attending the trail orientation, hikers will receive a bag tag they will attach to their backpack which includes their name, permit number, and date of issuance. You must have the physical permit with you when you hike. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Permits

1. Can I make changes to the itinerary?
   Yes, You can make changes to the itinerary, number of hikers, etc. They must be done by calling 1-877-Reserve.
2. What do I do if the dates I want are not available?
   The number of hikers permitted is based upon campground availability. Camp sites are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-ins are welcome at the Trail Center in Skagway, but are subject to availability of camps sites.
3. Can I cancel my permit?
   Yes, you can cancel your permit up to 30 days in advance and receive a full refund. To cancel a permit or ask about canceling one within 30 days of hiking, call Parks Canada at 1-867-667-3910 or toll free from Canada and the U.S. at 1-800-661-0486.

 

Duration:

5 minutes, 50 seconds

This short video brings to light the common risks and challenges that hikers may encounter on the trail. If you are interested in hiking the Chilkoot Trail check out this video to see if you are up to the challenge. Happy Trails.