White Pass Mountaineering Adventure

This tour is a full-day adventure into an off-trail, above-tree-line alpine area of White Pass. This tour is only recommended for hikers and mountain climbers looking for a challenging adventure in the wilds of Alaska. Our trip begins with a 40-minute van ride into the mountains and up the White Pass, which borders Alaska and the Yukon Territory in Canada. After we gear up, we’ll leave the road and venture into the alpine wonderland of White Pass. The nature of the tour and route conditions varies depending on the time of the year. In May and June, the conditions on the route are likely covered in snow and will require a combination of snow-shoeing and stream crossing. Later in the season, we’ll still encounter snow up higher on the peaks, but the access route will likely be snow free and involve off-trail hiking through alpine grasses and wildflowers, scrambling on rocks, and the occasional stream crossing. Our route will cover about 6 miles and gain up to 3,000 feet in elevation. Typically, our objective is to climb to the summit of Feather Peak or Mount Cleveland, both of which stand at about 5,500 feet. Both high points offer incredible views of the surrounding jagged peaks and wilderness of White Pass. However, there are a series of high points and routes that your guide may choose from. We may use crampons, ice axes, ropes, and other technical equipment to access the summit, however, there are also moderate routes to the summit that can be done without ropes. Safety is always our top priority. The exact route will depend on conditions, group ability, and guide choice. Even if the summit isn’t possible for the day, there are incredible waterfalls and scenic views to enjoy on this alpine hiking adventure. We allow for a full 8 hours for this adventure, however, timing in the mountains can be variable. We’ll be sure to get you back to your cruise ship on time. Our mountain guides are skilled at instruction and are excited to help teach snowshoe technique and basic mountaineering skills along the way. Weather can be quite variable at the pass. It is possible to have sunshine, whiteout foggy conditions, 30mph winds, rain, and even snow all on the same day. Temperatures are likely 10-20 degrees cooler than at sea level. It is important to dress in layers and avoid bringing cotton clothes. We operate this trip rain or shine, so good clothing and preparation are essential to thoroughly enjoy the adventurous experience. A waterproof jacket and pants, extra warm layers, and good hiking boots are essential. (~15 min) – Driving town tour of Skagway and visit to Skagway overlook (~20 min) – Unload and head into the backcountry, crossing a few small streams (~40 min) – Depart Skagway and drive up the White Pass (~2 hours) – As we gain elevation, we'll ascend an exposed ridge with some steeper snow and rock scrambling bringing us to a high point. Along the way, we'll stop to eat snacks and have lunch. (~3 hours) – We'll ascend up through tundra (or snow), taking short breaks about every hour or so. We'll bypass a series of beautiful waterfalls, and make our way toward the upper part of the mountain (~2 hours) – We'll descend back down the mountain, and back to the road. (~40 min) – Drive back to Skagway stopping along the way for photo opportunities