Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure

Traveling to Skagway and craving a mix of scenic train journeys and glacier exploration? The Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure offers exactly that — a full day of awe-inspiring views, active outdoor fun, and expert guiding. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on customer feedback, has been a favorite for many travelers, thanks to its combination of historic rail travel, wilderness hiking, and the chance to walk on a glacier.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the stunning vistas of the mountains and forest along the historic railway. Second, the opportunity to hike on a glacier with provided ice creepers makes it truly unique. Third, the knowledgeable guides, like Austin, bring the landscape to life with fascinating insights.

A potential downside? The tour involves moderate physical activity, so travelers should be prepared for a hike of 6-8 miles, including glacier walking. It’s not suited for those with mobility issues or very low fitness levels.

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who love nature, scenic train rides, and are eager for an authentic outdoor experience in Alaska’s wilderness.

Good To Know

• Combination of train ride and glacier hike offers diverse, memorable experiences.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of the landscape and features.
• Glacier walking with ice creepers adds a thrilling element of exploration.
• Well-maintained trail thanks to decades of local conservation efforts.
• Limited group size (max 6 travelers) allows for personalized attention.
• Full-day experience around 9 hours, including travel, hiking, and resting.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Your day begins with a ride aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, a vintage train that winds through mountains and dense forests, offering some of the most picturesque views in Alaska. Traveling in a vintage carriage, you’ll enjoy narration from your guide (who, based on reviews, is often well-versed and engaging, like Austin) and a chance to soak in the landscape.

The train journey lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to relax, take photos, and listen to fascinating stories about the area’s history. Travelers have mentioned that the scenery on this route is spectacular, with some reviewers describing it as a highlight of their trip.

Lunch and Preparation at the Trailhead

At the end of the train ride, you’ll arrive at the Laughton Glacier Trailhead. Here, guides will provide a safety briefing, and you’ll be outfitted with necessary gear, including ice creepers for glacier walking and trekking poles if desired.

This part of the tour is practical, as proper gear makes a huge difference when traversing icy terrain. Guests often appreciate the thoughtful equipment provision, which removes the need to bring their own gear and ensures safety and comfort.

The Glacier Hike and Exploration

The main event? Hiking approximately 3 miles from the trailhead to the Laughton Glacier. Once there, you’ll don your ice creepers, ready to step onto the glacier itself. The guides, such as Austin, are praised for their fascinating explanations about the glacier’s features — from bubbling meltwater to deep crevasses and moulins.

Travelers note that the glacier offers an otherworldly landscape—blue ice, crevasses, and ice fountains—making it a real highlight. After exploring for about two hours, there’s a well-deserved rest to enjoy the scenery and have lunch, often taking in sweeping views of the icy wilderness.

The guided glacier walk provides an authentic chance to experience the icy terrain safely, with professional oversight. Reviewers like the one who called it “a truly incredible adventure” echo how memorable this part is, especially with the added thrill of walking on actual ice.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the hike, you’ll stow gear and head back to the trailhead for the return to Skagway via the same historic train. The round-trip train ride caps off the day with more breathtaking vistas, allowing you to relax and reflect on your adventure.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes, making it a full-day affair that balances travel, activity, and rest. The group is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, which means you’ll receive personalized attention from your guides, adding to the overall quality of the experience.

Cost and Value

At $400 per person, this tour might seem like an investment, but it offers a well-rounded experience: scenic train travel, expert-guided glacier exploration, and the opportunity to hike on ice. Many reviewers feel that the value matches the price, especially considering the inclusion of gear, lunch, and the small group size.

Booking and Accessibility

Since the tour is typically booked about 101 days in advance and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, it’s a reliable choice for planning your Alaskan adventures. Travelers should be prepared for moderate physical activity, and it’s best suited for those with decent fitness levels.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Reviews

One traveler shared that the hike was “one of our best memories from Alaska,” praising the scenic beauty and the guides’ knowledge. The sense of being able to walk on a glacier and see “bubbling glacier water flows, crevasses, and mysterious fountains of ice water” makes this experience stand out.

Another reviewer called it “a surreal experience,” emphasizing the spectacular scenery on the train ride and the guide’s storytelling. Many appreciate guides like Austin, who take the time to explain what you’re seeing, making the day both educational and awe-inspiring.

Final Thoughts

Why Choose This Tour?

This adventure combines history, scenery, and active exploration into one seamless experience. You get the nostalgia of a historic railroad, the thrill of glacier walking, and the serenity of wilderness landscapes. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want an authentic glimpse of Alaska’s icy frontier.

Who Will Love It?

If you’re a fit traveler seeking a mix of scenic travel and physical activity, this tour will resonate. It’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and those wanting a memorable, small-group experience with expert guides.

Considerations

While the tour is well-organized and safe, the glacier walk involves icy terrain, so good footwear and a moderate fitness level are essential. It’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or those uncomfortable with cold, icy environments.

Final Verdict

The Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure delivers a compelling blend of history, scenery, and outdoor adventure. Its small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas make it a top choice for travelers wanting to explore Alaska’s wild side.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your round-trip train ticket is included, starting from Skagway to the trailhead and back.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 9 hours and 45 minutes, including travel, hiking, and rest periods.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

What’s included in the gear?
All clients are provided with ice creepers for glacier walking and trekking poles if desired.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What’s the recommended fitness level?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, suitable for most active travelers.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a sandwich, snacks, and water are provided in a lumbar pack for you to enjoy during the hike or train ride.

Are there any age restrictions?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but due to the physical nature, it’s best suited for those comfortable with hiking and glacier walking.

In summary, the Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure offers a well-crafted blend of historic scenic train travel and exhilarating glacier exploration. With expert guides, small group size, and stunning landscapes, it’s a memorable way to experience Alaska’s wilderness — perfect for active explorers eager for authentic adventure.