This is a basic list of recommended gear for the Chilkoot to be used as a guide for gearing up your hike. Your personal needs may be more or even less. Cotton is not the best, especially when wet, but it sure is comfortable. Just make sure you can get out of it. So bring alternative clothing like Nylon, Polyester, or Capilene.

Feet:

  • Hiking boots Broken in! This is a rocky trail with many stream crossings, full leather or synthetic waterproof is recommended.
  • Socks. Minimum 3-4 pair high quality, non-cotton hiking sock. 1 pair per day is better.
  • **Gaiters.
  • Sandals or light camp shoe.
  • Mole skin, second skin.

Legs:

  • Shorts 1-2 pair nylon recommended.
  • Pants 1-2 pair nylon.
  • Mid weight Capilene or polypropylene.
  • Rain pants.

Torso:

  • Short sleeve shirt.
  • Mid weight Capilene or polypropylene
  • Heavier insulation layer (polar fleece or similar layer).
  • Wind resistant jacket.
  • Rain jacket with hood (no ponchos).

Hands:

  • Gloves and/or glove liners.
  • Hand warmers.

Head:

  • Ball cap or similar for the sun.
  • Warm hat.
  • Rain protection can be hood on rain jacket.
  • Sunglasses.

Personal items:

  • Knife
  • Lighter/ matches.
  • Toiletries.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Bug dope.
  • Head lamp.

Gear:

  • Tent
  • Backpack.
  • Sleeping bag rated for time of year.
  • Hydro seal stuff sack for sleeping bag.
  • Insulation pad.
  • ##Ground tarp.
  • Stove.
  • Fuel.
  • Cook ware.
  • Eating utensils.
  • Water purifier.
  • Water bottles.
  • 30 feet 4mm rope for bear pole.
  • Medical kit.
  • Zip lock storage sacks for clothing and essential items.
  • ##Pack cover.

**Depending upon conditions, may or may not be needed.
##Non essential

Additional Gear Information:

  • This is a recommended list for summer hiking conditions; spring, fall and winter conditions require additional gear.
  • If you get cold easily additional consideration should be given warm layers.
  • When hiking in a group, distribute the non personal items so that all packs are near equal weight.
  • The Chilkoot is difficult hike, keeping the weight to a minimum will make your hike more enjoyable!

For information on gear available in Skagway, The Mountain Shop is ready to answer all gear questions.  (907) 983-2544