Chilkoot Trail Reopens with Border Restrictions Amid Ongoing U.S.-Canada Tensions

The Chilkoot Trail, a renowned 33-mile hiking route in southeastern Alaska, is once again open to the public after nearly five years of closures. Shared between the United States and Canada, both sides of the trail are accessible for hikers; however, the Canada Border Services Agency has prohibited crossing the international boundary, mandating that visitors must turn back at the border.

This trail was initially closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and subsequent severe flooding damage on the U.S. side. While both sections of the trail are operational, those wanting to complete the entire path are required to officially enter at a designated port of entry. The nearest such point is located in Skagway, about 11 miles away from the starting point on the American side, as there is no designated port directly on the trail itself.

The Canada Border Services Agency has articulated concerns regarding the effective monitoring of crossings at this remote location, which is why the border remains restricted. The agency's statements have indicated that their decision aligns with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's stance against allowing entry into the U.S. from Canada via the trail. Before the pandemic, hikers could register and present proper documentation to cross the border.

National Park Service officials have expressed excitement about the trail’s reopening, allowing hikers to explore 16.5 miles of its scenic route after years of inactivity. The historic trail stretches from Dyea in Alaska to Bennett in British Columbia and was once frequented by over 15,000 hikers and campers annually before the pandemic.

In addition to the Chilkoot Trail, hiking enthusiasts are facing increased restrictions on cross-border routes. For instance, hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail have recently been informed that they must go through a designated port of entry to access the Canadian sections of the trail.

Additionally, tension has been brewing in U.S.-Canada relations, partly due to previous remarks by former President Donald Trump regarding potential annexation and tariffs, which have strained diplomatic ties since his inauguration. Trump’s comments during a meeting with Canadian officials prompted strong refusals about any notion of Canadian territory being for sale.

In defending against drug trafficking claims associated with border security, Canadian leaders have pointed out that Canada is not a haven for illicit activities. Contrary to claims of drug trafficking concerns, U.S. authorities have reported significantly more seizures of fentanyl at the southern border than the northern border, indicating less of an issue on the Canadian front. Overall, the number of unauthorized entries into the U.S. from Canada remains notably low when compared to encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border.