Cottonwood Trail
Trip Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
This multi-day 83-km loop circles through and around the Dalton Range in Kluane National Park. There is a mountain pass to hike up during the middle of the trip, but the elevation gain isn’t difficult. The view of the impressive Dalton Range mountains almost never leaves your sight during the trip. You will be hiking through stands of spruce and poplar and cross some creeks along the way. The area is also known for having the highest concentration of Dall Sheep in the world!
Difficulty: No hiking experience required but physical fitness (up to 8 hours hiking per day) and capability of carrying up to 40 lbs on your back. Kids (12+) can be accommodated if parents are willing to take some extra weight. There is not a lot of elevation gain and the terrain is not technical, so it is the ideal beginner backpacking trip. Your knowledgeable guide will show you the best creek crossing techniques.
Price: $2,060 + GST/Person (4 Person Minimum)
Day 1: Upon your arrival in Whitehorse you will be greeted at the airport by the Up North Adventures Shuttle. Meet the other trip participants where your guide will verify your personal gear and answer any last minute questions. Participants are then invited to explore the city of Whitehorse, enjoy a meal or take in the historic sights on their own. Enjoy your fist night in Whitehorse in a downtown hotel (included in price) located in downtown Whitehorse.
Day 2: The group will meet at 9:00am at the Up North Base. After a quick review, you will jump in the shuttle and drive the scenic Alaska Highway 2.5 hours west of Whitehorse to the trailhead. We will spend the rest of the day on the trail.
Day 3 – 5: The group will spend the next few days hiking in the Kluane backcountry, enjoying the jaw dropping views of the Dalton mountain range while scouting for wildlife, the area is renowned for its Dall sheep population. Camping in tents and enjoying the midnight sun is all part of the fun!
Day 6: The last day on the trail, after a hearty breakfast you will get on the trail for your last morning of hiking. The shuttle will meet you at the end of your journey, and drive you back to Whitehorse where you will check in to your accommodation to enjoy a well earned night in the comforts of a hotel.
Day 7: Departure day. We will bring you to the airport or – better yet – you can join Up North for another fantastic adventure.
Logistics:
- 6 Days
- Maximum 6:1 guide ratio
Includes:
- 5 guided hiking days with a knowledgeable hiking guide
- all meals while in the backcountry
- Kluane National Park permits and fees
- 2 nights of hotel accommodation, 1 night at the beginning and 1 night at the end of the trip in Whitehorse
- ground transportation to/from the trailhead - bear canisters for food storage
Not included:
- Meals while staying in Whitehorse
- Flights to and from Whitehorse
- Clients can either bring their own tent (3- or 4-season), sleeping bag, backpack (min. 65 litres capacity) and Sleeping pad or rent those items from Up North Adventures for an extra fee.
- Gratuities for guides