Adventure in Skagway!

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling journey through the rugged landscapes and rich history of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This adventure is perfect for those who crave not only breathtaking scenery but also a deep dive into the dramatic narratives of the past.

Day 1: Seattle Jumpstart

Start your adventure in Seattle, Washington, at the park"s Visitor Center located in the historic Cadillac Hotel in Pioneer Square. Explore the exhibits showcasing the frenzied gold rush era of the late 1890s. Learn about the intrepid souls who embarked on this treacherous journey in search of fortune. After soaking up history, stroll through the vibrant neighborhood, brimming with art galleries and coffee shops—a nod to the city"s rich cultural tapestry.

Day 2: Journey to Skagway

Fly to Skagway, Alaska, the gateway to the Klondike. This small town retains its old-world charm with false-fronted buildings and wooden boardwalks. Check into a local lodge and prepare for the upcoming trek. Don"t miss the Park Service’s Visitor Center on Broadway Street, housed in the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Depot. The evening is free for exploring Skagway’s rustic eateries and quirky saloons.

Day 3: The Chilkoot Trail

Gear up for the highlight of your trip—a hike on the famous Chilkoot Trail. This challenging 33-mile trek is typically tackled over several days and offers an authentic taste of the gold rush stampeder’s experience. Tramp through lush forests, alpine tundra, and over the golden staircase, following in the footsteps of hopeful prospectors. Camping along the trail, under the expansive northern sky, provides a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Day 4: Relive History in Dawson City

From Skagway, head to Dawson City by road or via the scenic White Pass route. Once a booming hub for gold-seekers, Dawson City today invites you to pan for gold in the Klondike River, visit historic sites like Dredge No. 4, and enjoy a night of cancan dancers at Diamond Tooth Gerties, Canada’s oldest casino.

This expedition not only traces the arduous journeys of the gold rush adventurers but also immerses you in the indomitable spirit of the North. Pack your hiking boots and a sense of adventure for a trip that’s as gold-laden as the history it celebrates.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Gold Rush Cemetery

Why Visit?

Embark on a journey back in time to the rugged days of the Klondike Gold Rush with a visit to the atmospheric Gold Rush Cemetery in Skagway, Alaska. This hauntingly beautiful resting place serves as a silent testament to the adventurous souls who ventured north in search of fortune.

Starting Point: Skagway

Begin your adventure in the charismatic town of Skagway, accessible by road via the South Klondike Highway, or opt for a more scenic arrival via ferry through the Alaska Marine Highway System. Skagway itself is steeped in frontier history and charm, a perfect prelude to the cemetery.

Journey to Gold Rush Cemetery

From downtown Skagway, the Gold Rush Cemetery is a mere 1.5 miles away. Rent a bike for a leisurely ride or enjoy a brisk walk north along the State Street, turning left onto the Klondike Highway. As you approach, follow the signs that lead you into a forested pathway, adding a touch of adventure to your trek.

Explore and Discover

The cemetery is an open book of history. Here lie Soapy Smith, Skagway’s infamous con man, and Frank Reid, who ended Smith"s reign of terror but paid with his own life. Their graves, along with those of countless others who dreamed of riches, tell silent tales of desperation, lawlessness, and the harsh realities of Gold Rush life.

Adding to Your Adventure

Just beyond the cemetery, follow the trail to Lower Reid Falls, named after Frank Reid. The waterfall cascades beautifully into a serene pool, offering a picturesque spot for reflection or a tranquil pause in your exploration.

Know Before You Go

The site is accessible year-round, but the best visiting months are May through September when the trails are clear. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the eerie beauty of the tombstones against the lush Alaskan backdrop.

Wrap up your visit with a deeper appreciation for the tenacity of the human spirit, as seen in the lives of those who rested their hopes in the Klondike Gold Rush.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling journey back in time at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp, nestled in the scenic outskirts of Skagway, Alaska. This unique adventure begins by boarding the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway—an experience in itself—as it chugs alongside breathtaking panoramas of mountains, gorges, and waterfalls.

Upon arriving at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp, you"ll step into the late 1890s, when thousands of prospectors flooded the area, dreaming of striking it rich. The camp is named after the journalists who fabricated tall tales and dubbed "liars" by the miners. Here, the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush comes alive among the faithfully recreated tent buildings, antiques, and artifacts.

Start your adventure by participating in an authentic gold panning session where you can swirl your pan in the waters, just as the prospectors did over a century ago, and keep whatever gold you discover! After staking your claim, gather around as a colorful cast of costumed interpreters and storytellers regale you with dramatic tales of the Gold Rush era, complete with poetry readings of Robert W. Service"s mesmerizing ballads.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the historical exhibits and snap a photo with the camp’s resident huskies, capturing the essence of Alaskan frontier life. The scene is set with crackling campfires and rustic tents, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

Wind down your visit at the Liarsville General Store, where you can pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted local artwork, perfect for remembering your Alaskan adventure. As the sun begins to dip behind the mountains, catch a ride back to Skagway, filled with stories and treasures from a bygone era.

For adventure lovers and history enthusiasts alike, the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp offers a captivating glimpse into the wild history of Alaska’s gold rush, wrapped in the stunning natural beauty of the Last Frontier.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Chilkoot Trail

Why Visit?

Welcome to the historic Chilk/oot Trail, a 33-mile trek rich with Gold Rush lore, stunning landscapes, and a true test of endurance. This storied path, which starts near Skagway, Alaska, and ends at Bennett Lake in British Columbia, promises adventure seekers a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty and a profound historical journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Skagway

Fly into Juneau, then catch a connecting flight to Skagway. Spend your day exploring this quaint town, which still echoes the Gold Rush era with its wooden boardwalks and rustic buildings. Overnight in Skagway to prepare for the early trail start the next day.

Day 2: Trailhead to Sheep Camp

Rise early and head to the trailhead at Dyea, a short drive from Skagway. Today’s hike will be a moderate 12-mile trek to Sheep Camp, the last stop before the challenging ascent. The trail traces the steps of the stampeders, winding through lush rainforests and by historic artifacts from the 1898 Gold Rush.

Day 3: Sheep Camp to Happy Camp

Prepare for the most strenuous part of the trail: the ascent to Chilkoot Pass. Early start is essential. As you climb, the landscape changes from dense forest to alpine tundra. The Golden Stairs, a steep, boulder-strewn slope near the pass, offers a visceral connection to the past, where prospectors hauled their supplies up the same challenging path. Rest at the summit, then descend to Happy Camp for the night.

Day 4: Happy Camp to Bennett

The trail eases as you make your way towards Bennett. Cross into Canada and enjoy spectacular views of deep blue lakes and the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. Arrive at Bennett by late afternoon, explore the historic townsite and set camp by the serene waters of Bennett Lake.

Day 5: Return to Skagway

Catch the scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway back to Skagway. This spectacular train journey offers a fitting finale to your adventure, with dramatic cliffside vistas and sweeping views of the landscape you’ve just traversed on foot.

Each step on the Chilkoot Trail is a step back in time and a test of your mettle. Pack your spirit of adventure and follow in the footsteps of the intrepid souls who sought fortunes in the Klondike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Skagway Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling journey to Skagway, Alaska, where the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush comes alive. Begin your adventure by stepping into the rustic charm of the Skagway Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories nestled at Seventh Avenue and Spring Street in the heart of Skagway. Easily accessible on foot from anywhere in town, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rough-and-tumble days of gold seekers and the rich Tlingit culture.

Start your day early by catching a scenic flight from Juneau or a dramatic ferry ride through the Inside Passage, both leading you directly to Skagway. Upon arrival, stroll along the wooden sidewalks of this historic town, where every corner tells a story. Make your way to the museum to delve into an impressive collection, featuring original pieces from the Trail of ’98, indigenous Tlingit crafts, and early 20th-century photographs that vividly capture the town"s wild past.

After soaking up history, lace up your hiking boots for the nearby Chilkoot Trail, a 33-mile trek that traces the steps of the original Gold Rush stampeders. It"s an arduous but rewarding journey, offering breathtaking views and a palpable sense of adventure. Ensure you"re prepared: the trail demands good physical condition and proper gear.

For a less demanding yet equally stunning experience, take a short drive to the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls. Here, you can pay your respects to Soapy Smith, Skagway"s infamous con man, and marvel at the serene beauty of the waterfall.

Cap off your day with a relaxing evening back in town. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local eatery and reminisce about your day of adventure under the midnight sun, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes that make Skagway a haven for adventure lovers and history buffs alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.