It’s one of the great walks of the world, the most popular hike in Alaska. Travel to the the trailhead in Skagway by sea via the Inside Passage is spectacular.

By ship you'll see whales, birds and other marine life. A gorgeous panorama of sea, sky, mountain, island, and glacier. You can catch the inexpensive public ferry to Skagway in Bellingham (Washington State), Prince Rupert (British Columbia) or Juneau, Alaska. Check the Alaska Marine Ferry website.

The Chilkoot is over 50 km (33 - 35 miles) on a very well-walked, well-maintained trail. You hike up the Taiya River over a high pass to Bennett, British Columbia. The Canadian border is at the summit. Schedule 3-5 days for the trip.

This is a serious hike recommended only for fit, experienced hikers. You'll have snow and mud, rocky terrain and steep scrambling. It is a long, long day crossing the Chilkoot Pass.

There are many fine campsites to choose from. And plenty to distract you from the slog. The track is littered with historical artifacts discarded by the men stampeding to the Klondike gold rush 1898 to 1900. The best history lesson is to trek in the footsteps of the gold seekers.

Bring your camera as the Chilkoot is a most photogenic trek. Here are some photos from a September 2000 hike.