Takshanuk Ridge Trekking

The Takshanuk ridge and Mount Ripinsky rises up over the town of Haines. The route traverses an alpine ridge perched between the Chilkat and Chilkoot valleys far below.

Traversing the ridge offers 360 degree snow-capped mountain views, and occasionally you can see the distant Fairweather Range along the Gulf of Alaska.  The trail gains about 3900 feet in elevation over the 10 miles of trail.  In addition to the trail, there are some off-trail options to gain more elevation and explore Chilly Ridge and Mt. Tukgahoe.

A variety of wildlife including mountain goat, bear, ptarmigan,  moose and others inhabit the area. While it can be done in a long day, the multi-day options offers a unique alpine wonderland for exploration for visitors to the area.

HAINES: Haines Alaska is the starting/finishing place for this trip. Haines is a small community located along the fjords at the top of the Inside Passage. The natural beauty and wilderness access found here are responsible for Haines’ reputation as a center for wilderness adventure in Alaska.

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD: Mount Ripinski sits on the edge of the town of Haines. There are three trailheads that access the summit, all of which are a short drive from downtown Haines. We will use private vans to take you to and from the trail.

MOUNT RIPINSKI: Experience the various mountain ecosystems indicative of Southeast Alaska. You will begin in lush rainforest, travel through the sub-alpine, onto alpine meadows, ending at the rocky summit. We will gain approximately 3,000 feet and will be rewarded with stunning 360 degree views of the Upper Lynn Canal and the Chilkat Valley.

OUR GUIDES: Alaska Mountain Guides & Climbing School Inc. instructors and guides are professionals. They have a wealth of experience from guiding throughout Alaska and the world and they genuinely enjoy sharing their knowledge. Their skill and positive attitudes help our guests to have the best possible experience during their trip. Your safety and enjoyment are their primary goals.

Day 0: Meet in Haines for a pre-trip orientation. Lodging and meals on your own.

Day 1: We will take a short drive to the Mount Ripinski trailhead just outside of downtown Haines. We will hike approximately five miles through the forest and make camp in the alpine meadows.

Day 2: We will hike up and over the ‘3920’ summit and make camp in the 7 mile saddle. Have your camera ready to capture the stunning views of the Upper Lynn Canal.

Day 3: We will spend the morning exploring Tukaghoe and Chilly Ridge before heading back down and into town.

How many miles do we hike each day?
Typically we hike about 4-8 miles per day, dependent upon conditions.

Are Passports required?
No, this hike remains within the borders of Alaska. However, you may want to bring your passport to explore the area prior to or following your trip. The Canadian border is located 40 miles from Haines and is a beautiful area to explore.

When is the best time to hike?
The season on the trail generally goes from June through the end of September. In June and July the days are long and the alpine meadows are carpeted in wildflowers. Later in the season, temperatures may be cooler and hoards of blueberries line the trail at lower elevations.

What does AMG do for water treatment on the trail?
AMG carries steri-pens for water treatment. Additionally, we also have iodine tablets as a back-up, and boil water.

When do I meet my guide?
We arrange for a pre-trip meeting in Haines the evening before the hike begins. You will meet your guide, and go over all of your clothing and equipment to make sure you have everything that you need.

What are the tent arrangements?
We are happy to offer single tents for all of our guests. Keep in mind that this will likely increase pack weight. Most guests utilize a 2 person tent. If you are a group of 3, we can easily accommodate with 3 person tents as well.

What is the food like during the trip?
Our meals are planned with bases such as rice, pasta, and other grains on a nightly basis. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be had most days, and canned and smoked meats and fish add a great source of protein. Meals will be very similar to what you would cook at home, and we definitely aim to please with interested and varied menus and good presentation.

Trip Documents:

• Registration Form  – Outlines policies, and essential information.  One required per participant.
• Health Form – This form enables our guides to have accurate health information in the event of an emergency.
• Land Based Activity Waiver  – One required per participant. Guests under the age of 18 may go on one form.
• Travel Info – Helpful information on how to get to/from Haines, Alaska.

What is included in the trip price:

• Camping gear – group camping equipment, tents, stoves, etc…
• Expedition food – all food while out in the field.
• Transportation during trip – travel to the trailhead, and back to Haines after.
• Professional guides – Our guides have extensive knowledge of the area and a passion for backpacking in wild places.

To Book your adventure, follow the steps below:

1. 1. Please call to confirm availability at 1-800-766-3396 or fill out an online form to request more information via this link:

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2. Place a deposit of $500 or 25% of trip cost (whichever is less) to reserve your spot: this can be place over the phone by credit card, check in the mail, or through our payment gateway.
3. Once you’ve reserved your spot, you’ll receive a welcome packet with all the necessary registration forms and trip information.
4. We kindly ask that you submit all of the necessary trip registration information at least 45 days prior to your trip.

Feel free to call or email anytime if you have questions about your upcoming trip. Our team is excited to help you prepare for your adventure!

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