Packer Expeditions - Day Tours
Packer Expeditions - Day Tours
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Packer Expeditions offers day hikes on wilderness trails not accessible by road combined with a scenic ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, and guided and catered backpacking on the world famous Chilkoot Trail.
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Packer Expeditions - Day Tours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
598 reviews
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570
Very good
24
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2
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1
Terrible
1
Storyteller558896
4 contributions
Aug 2022
I booked the Laughton Glacier Hike & White Pass Train Expedition blindly not knowing what to expect. The expedition itself (aside from the train ride) went well beyond my expectations. Our guide Canon did an INCREDIBLE job of stopping along the way and explaining the various plants (some edible) and the history of the forest and Glacier. While the hike was challenging for someone who hasn't hiked in years, there was never a moment that I questioned what I was doing. The sites, education and ultimately standing on a glacier are something I will never forget.
With reference to the train ride - it was a beautiful and comfortable way to begin and end the expedition.
I highly recommend hiking shoes. I was on a cruise and their brochure stated tennis shoes were okay, and while ultimately, they worked, I found myself wanting a better grip on the wet and or rocky ground below me from time to time. Definitely take up the guides recommendation to borrow one of their trekking poles.
A great big thank you goes out to their guide Canon. He made sure we were all safe but also challenged us to take those extra steps to get to a destination that I fear only a few of us will be privileged to see in the years to come due to global warming.
With reference to the train ride - it was a beautiful and comfortable way to begin and end the expedition.
I highly recommend hiking shoes. I was on a cruise and their brochure stated tennis shoes were okay, and while ultimately, they worked, I found myself wanting a better grip on the wet and or rocky ground below me from time to time. Definitely take up the guides recommendation to borrow one of their trekking poles.
A great big thank you goes out to their guide Canon. He made sure we were all safe but also challenged us to take those extra steps to get to a destination that I fear only a few of us will be privileged to see in the years to come due to global warming.
Written August 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RSmith
5 contributions
Jun 2022
From amazing views both from the helicopter and on the hike, to edible plants, to temporary tattoos our guide, Nicola, was a wealth of information, kind, and patient with us. Packer expeditions did an amazing job of presenting safety information, providing water, and snacks. It was an amazing experience and worth doing again.
Written June 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cinjaymac
Martinsburg, WV22 contributions
Aug 2022
The train experience was lovely with remarkable scenery at every turn. The hike was strenuous, but the guides were attentive to individual needs and capabilities. My husband and I are getting older, 72 and 66, respectively, but we were able to remain with the group. The last push uphill towards the glacier was the most demanding portion of the hike. The reward afterwards of a peanut butter sandwich, a memorable view of the glacier with its surrounding mountain peaks and river valley, and a much-needed rest break made everything worthwhile.
I recommend this excursion not only because of the above-mentioned aspects, but also because the guides were outstanding. They were prepared for any emergency, they paid careful attention to every hiker under their care, they provided lots of historical information, and they prepared the very best salmon spread that I have ever tasted. The bush picnic, after we returned to the train for the final leg of the the journey, is my favorite memory of our entire Alaskan cruise.
Great job and thank you to our guides. Shed, please post your recipe for salmon spread.
I recommend this excursion not only because of the above-mentioned aspects, but also because the guides were outstanding. They were prepared for any emergency, they paid careful attention to every hiker under their care, they provided lots of historical information, and they prepared the very best salmon spread that I have ever tasted. The bush picnic, after we returned to the train for the final leg of the the journey, is my favorite memory of our entire Alaskan cruise.
Great job and thank you to our guides. Shed, please post your recipe for salmon spread.
Written September 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cora P
Phoenix, AZ61 contributions
Jun 2022
The was the only tour we booked through the cruise line (NCL). It was a wonderful trip. Our guides met us at the end of the dock, and we walked through the back of town to the railway stop. Along the way, Nicky pointed out historical sites and told us stories. It was a little bonus tour since none of our group wanted to wait for a shuttle to take us when the day was beautiful and the walk was relatively short.
We rode the train to the Denver Valley where were took a hike. It's listed as 4-6 miles. We were confused (how could the distance change?) It turns out that the hike is not a loop, so the tour either walks in 2, 2.5 or 3 miles. We walked 2.5 miles and were rewarded with the site of a waterfall (technically, it wasn't a waterfall, but I'm from Phoenix and was quite impressed). Our guide said that they don't often do the 6 mile hike as most people want to stop periodically and just see how beautiful things are.
We had several "scheduled" stops to rest and see interesting things. We got to use the glacier sand to exfoliate and massage our hands. The guides and several hikers did the "glacier facial" where they went to the stream and dunked their heads into the freezing water. Along the way, the guides, Nicki (NIkki?) and Shane, pointed out interesting things and answered all our questions.
I was the slow poke of the group and Shane was tasked with guarding the rear. He was really interesting. Did you know that you can major in "experiential outdoor education"? (I think that's the correct term.) Well, Shane did and his background informed his approach to the hike and greatly added to our enjoyment.
After the hike, we got back on the train and had a scenic tour of the area. The cars were rather hot, but it was really nice to stand on the platforms and feel the breezes. It was really pleasant. The guides told us stories about different places along the route.
On the hike and ride, were fed snacks (including Snickers bars, which made my husband happy), water and hot drinks. We had sandwiches and "salmon pate" (salmon and cream cheese) on crackers.
I highly recommend this tour.
We rode the train to the Denver Valley where were took a hike. It's listed as 4-6 miles. We were confused (how could the distance change?) It turns out that the hike is not a loop, so the tour either walks in 2, 2.5 or 3 miles. We walked 2.5 miles and were rewarded with the site of a waterfall (technically, it wasn't a waterfall, but I'm from Phoenix and was quite impressed). Our guide said that they don't often do the 6 mile hike as most people want to stop periodically and just see how beautiful things are.
We had several "scheduled" stops to rest and see interesting things. We got to use the glacier sand to exfoliate and massage our hands. The guides and several hikers did the "glacier facial" where they went to the stream and dunked their heads into the freezing water. Along the way, the guides, Nicki (NIkki?) and Shane, pointed out interesting things and answered all our questions.
I was the slow poke of the group and Shane was tasked with guarding the rear. He was really interesting. Did you know that you can major in "experiential outdoor education"? (I think that's the correct term.) Well, Shane did and his background informed his approach to the hike and greatly added to our enjoyment.
After the hike, we got back on the train and had a scenic tour of the area. The cars were rather hot, but it was really nice to stand on the platforms and feel the breezes. It was really pleasant. The guides told us stories about different places along the route.
On the hike and ride, were fed snacks (including Snickers bars, which made my husband happy), water and hot drinks. We had sandwiches and "salmon pate" (salmon and cream cheese) on crackers.
I highly recommend this tour.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GlobetrotterMikeFL
Pensacola, FL221 contributions
Aug 2022
Three of us were part of a group about two dozen who took the White Pass & Yukon Route train on the 14 mile journey from Skagway to Glacier Station and then hiked about 3 miles from the tracks to see the Laughton Glacier.
Our guides from Packer Expeditions were Scott, Nikki, Ben, and Shed. They were very helpful along the trail with safety being their top concern. But they also shared interesting information about the flora and fauna of the area as we hiked along the rapids and through the magnificent forest. Then we reached the glacier. Oh, the glacier! I had seen photos, heard stories, and read reviews. But experiencing it in person was spectacular!
The blue hue of the glacier was expected; its sounds were not. But the guides explained why the glacier wasn't silent. We had plenty of time to take photos, and the guides were always willing to snap photos for us. After we all enjoyed our sandwiches (which the guides prepared before our hike began) at the foot of the glacier, we descended back down to the train tracks for our ride back into Skagway.
I highly recommend this tour for anyone who enjoys hiking through the great outdoors.
Our guides from Packer Expeditions were Scott, Nikki, Ben, and Shed. They were very helpful along the trail with safety being their top concern. But they also shared interesting information about the flora and fauna of the area as we hiked along the rapids and through the magnificent forest. Then we reached the glacier. Oh, the glacier! I had seen photos, heard stories, and read reviews. But experiencing it in person was spectacular!
The blue hue of the glacier was expected; its sounds were not. But the guides explained why the glacier wasn't silent. We had plenty of time to take photos, and the guides were always willing to snap photos for us. After we all enjoyed our sandwiches (which the guides prepared before our hike began) at the foot of the glacier, we descended back down to the train tracks for our ride back into Skagway.
I highly recommend this tour for anyone who enjoys hiking through the great outdoors.
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sean Y
1 contribution
Jul 2022
We had a last minute cancellation of another excursion we were doing in Skagway. After a few calls and so much help from the team at Packer Expeditions, we landed on a helicopter tour of the laughton and denver valleys, hiked up to see the laughton glacier, and road the train back to town. Overall, we had the best last minute change to the trip and appreciated the professional and quick response to a last minute change. Thank you Kate and Ben!
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nathan81255060
Antarctica129 contributions
Sep 2022
We had originally booked a Heli-Hike & Train tour with this company, but mother nature was not playing along and so the Heli was cancelled. We were able to jump on this tour instead which involved a small walk through town with commentary before a nice train ride up to the 14mile mark on the White Pass rail.
From there a nicely paced hike stopping along the way for more great information, all the way to the Laughton Glacier before returning to the train and returning to town. Beautiful scenery and incredible photos made all the better by our fantastic guides Ben, Shet & Kennedy! They were personable, friendly & knowledgeable, making everyone feel comfortable and safe the whole time. Would happily go again on this or another hike if they were our guides again!
From there a nicely paced hike stopping along the way for more great information, all the way to the Laughton Glacier before returning to the train and returning to town. Beautiful scenery and incredible photos made all the better by our fantastic guides Ben, Shet & Kennedy! They were personable, friendly & knowledgeable, making everyone feel comfortable and safe the whole time. Would happily go again on this or another hike if they were our guides again!
Written September 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So&Do
Westminster, SC16 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
If you are on cruise ship you do Not Need A PASSPORT for this excursion. It says you do and they have told them to change that. But they haven't. Amazing trip start to finish. Train ride they told us all about area. The hike was beautiful and not that hard. You start out all together then break off into groups depending on your speed.
Written September 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lucine9
Golden, CO74 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
This was an amazing guided hike. White pass train and Denver valley hike. Two guides for a group of eleven hikers. Speed a problem? No they will split the group to ability. Have a question about the area, flora, wildlife? They have the answer. Their love and knowledge of this amazing area is unmatched. They do it all: entertain, show off the best places, remake the trails when needed,and cater allow you to revel in the peace and wildness you have come to see. Because of the train ride you are on a schedule, but we never felt rushed or concerned. Way to go ! Our guides were Ben and Ryan. Don't miss this fascinating journey. Unless... You find another one of their trips that that excites you more... Enjoy
Written May 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rhea Z
11 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
We did the Denver Valley hike and White Pass Railway tour. What an amazing hike with superior guides! Our guides were skilled, passionate, informative and safe. They split us up by skill level, so those of us who wanted to go faster/further could make it clear to the beautiful Denver Falls, while those who needed a slower pace could enjoy the Tongass Forest and it’s beauty without getting hurt or feeling badly about their needed pace.
We highly recommend this tour to enjoy lush rainforest views and history (thousand year old trees), river sounds and views, and fun exercise. The White Pass summit train ride is a relaxing way to enjoy the gold rush Mountain View’s as well.
The guides worked harder than any of our other excursions and were friendly and positive throughout the experience.
We highly recommend this tour to enjoy lush rainforest views and history (thousand year old trees), river sounds and views, and fun exercise. The White Pass summit train ride is a relaxing way to enjoy the gold rush Mountain View’s as well.
The guides worked harder than any of our other excursions and were friendly and positive throughout the experience.
Written September 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My husband and I are signed up for this expedition next week and are a little worried about the difficulty level. How much of an incline is there? We live at sea level. Was the altitude a problem? How bad is the boulder field you climb over? That is the part that is worrying us. The youtube videos we find make it look pretty difficult! Thanks so much!
Written June 7, 2019
I wouldn't call it an easy hike, probably moderate level, but they let you go at your own pace and it isn't too steep. Our group had all different ages and managed well.
Written June 8, 2019
Thanks for the review. Was there a safe place to leave a camera while you were kayaking?
Written June 12, 2017
Hi!, I am so sorry I didnt see your question. We borrowed their water tight bags and took our camera with us. We took amazing pictures. In some stores, you can purchase a lanyard with a watertight case for easy access to your camera. Otherwise, there is no real safe place to leave your camera behind.
Written August 3, 2017
why I am not getting any response to my request for booking the Packer Glacier Station Hike? I have FB, emailed, and tried to book on the website???? Can someone advise if this hike is still available please.... june 19, 2017
Written May 3, 2017
I dont know the answer to that, we booked our hike through Celebrity Cruise Shore Excursions. Have you tried the website Shore Trips?
Written August 3, 2017
We are doing the Laughton Glacier via White Pass RR hike. We have an 11 y/o that is a little apprehensive about BEARS. Can anyone speak about if they saw any and what safety equipment does the guilds take? Thanks
Written January 29, 2017
PackerExpeditions
Skagway, Alaska
Although we do see bears out on our trails it is still rather rare! In the over 20 years we have been in operation we have never had a negative interaction with a bear. They are honestly more scared of us then we are of them. The simple noise of the group is enough to scare them away from us.
Written February 8, 2017
My spouse has a hip measurement of 50 inches and a weight of 250lbs. We have kayaked many times without problems. Do you think that there will be an issue?
Written December 18, 2016
I'd pose this question directly to Packers. In the kayak we used, someone with a 50" hip would not fit -- but they might have specialty equipment available. In case it is relevant -- it was about a 15 minute mostly-flat walk from the ship to the train we rode to the glacier lake.
Written December 19, 2016
Hi Valerie,
My husband and I are looking into the Packer Train/Glacier Hike based on your recommendation. My main concern is whether we are in good enough shape to do this (i'm 50 and he's 55, we tend to be shorter day hikers (this summer we climbed Lembert Dome at Yosemite about 3 hrs on an incline and can do 10 K steps without problem). If you don't mind sharing how fit you and your husband are, this will help me gauge. We saw the hike was 7+ miles. Do you need hiking boots? How did others do? We just don't want to drop out. Thanks so much for any advice you can provide.
Amy
Written August 30, 2016
steve o
Alexandria, Virginia
Sorry for late reply. You should be ok on the short or long hikes. The trails were mildly challenging but not arduous. some people wore tennis shoes and made it w/out any problems (maybe muddy though). I have weak ankles so the day hiking shoes were great for me. And I am in ok health but a relatively slow hiker, but the guides are always watching and adjusting.
Written September 21, 2016
We will be there via our cruise. We enjoy amazing scenery, walking is fine, seeing any animals. Any tips?
Written March 31, 2016
Hi, not sure what trip to take....White pass railway and Alpine snowshoe hike.... or... White pass railway and Laugton Glacier wilderness hike?????
If anyone can help, or give advice as they both sound really nice...
Thanks
Tracy
Written February 28, 2016
PackerExpeditions
Skagway, Alaska
Tracy,
Go ahead and shoot me an email. You can find this on our website. I am sorry but it will not let me post our website or email in this response. Once I receive your email I will help you pick the excursion that is perfect for you!
Thank you,
Shane Yarborough
Packer Expeditions
Operations Manager
Written February 28, 2016
I am going to Alaska next year in August. I really want to do snowshoeing, Is there anywhere that does floatplane or helicopter to somewhere to snowshoe?
Written November 15, 2015
PackerExpeditions
Skagway, Alaska
Please shoot us an email. You can find it on the Packer Expeditions website. I am sorry but Tripadvisor will not let me include our email in this response. We may be able to help you set something up for when you are in Skagway.
Written November 17, 2015
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