Backpacking
BACKPACKING EXPEDITIONS
The terrain surrounding Haines, Alaska and the Yukon Territory offers some of the most breathtaking and remote wilderness in North America. With Chilkoot High Adventure Base, scouts can choose from two exceptional backpacking routes—each offering its own unique blend of challenge, beauty, and discovery.
Mt. Ripinsky – Takshanuk Mountains, Alaska
Haines, Alaska is the gateway to the rugged Takshanuk Mountains. Our Mt. Ripinsky backpacking program immerses scouts in lush, forested alpine terrain just outside of town. Participants hike through berry-filled meadows and along scenic ridgelines with sweeping views of Lynn Canal. This route offers abundant wildlife viewing and a true Alaskan backcountry experience within easy reach of basecamp.
Chuck Creek Trail – Kluane National Park, Yukon
Across the border, the Chuck Creek Trail introduces scouts to the raw beauty of Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its scale, wildness, and wildlife. This alpine trek features expansive ridgelines, vibrant wildflower meadows, and striking views of glacial valleys. The area teems with wildlife—from ground-nesting birds to Dall sheep and grizzly bears foraging along river flats. Its accessible terrain and remote setting make it an unforgettable Yukon backcountry adventure.
A World-Class Wilderness Experience
The Yukon’s vast landscape is a destination for those seeking beauty, solitude, and connection to the natural world. Picture yourself camping in a meadow of red and purple wildflowers beneath a birch canopy, surrounded by towering peaks and endless silence.
Experience Level
No previous experience is required. With curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a spirit of adventure, scouts will gain the skills and confidence needed for a lifetime of wilderness exploration.
This Program Requires Passports
Travel Notice: Yukon itineraries involve crossing the U.S.–Canada border. All participants must bring a valid passport and any required travel documents for customs.