The trail was originally used by gold seekers who traveled the 50-mile route while hauling all of their supplies, roughly one ton of cargo per person. Many items were left behind on the trail and artifacts are still being found today.
The trail starts at Dyea, near Skagway in Alaska and ends in Bennett in the Yukon Territory in Canada. The steepest pass is a 4,000-foot climb.
Hiking the Alaskan portion of the trail is free, but the Canadian side requires a trail pass and a reservation fee. Only 50 people are allowed to hike the trail per day. The hike takes 3 to 5 days and is recommended for experienced back country hikers.
Since the trail crosses an international border proper identification, preferably a passport, is needed to hike the trail. Northbound hikers register in Skagway. Southbound hikers register with Parks Canada.
Snowfields exist even in the summer. Hypothermia is the biggest danger. Dress warm, in layers. Stay dry and drink plenty of liquids. Make sure you have adequate food and water for the trip.
While bears tend to avoid people, they may attack if surprised. It is best to make lots of noise while hiking. Use a food cache (food sack suspended high in a tree by ropes) to store supplies.
