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Historic site · Skagway, Alaska
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The park that preserves Skagway’s downtown from the Klondike Gold Rush era, with restored buildings, the 1898 Mascot saloon, the founder’s house, the old train station that serves as the visitor center and the start of the Chilkoot Trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
In 1897 the news of gold in the Klondike River in Yukon, Canada, drew tens of thousands of people north. Skagway and neighboring Dyea became gateways: from there prospectors climbed the White Pass and Chilkoot trails to the lakes from which they traveled by boat to the Klondike. In a few months Skagway grew from a cabin to a town with saloons, shops and thousands of inhabitants.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, created in 1976, protects part of Skagway’s downtown and the Dyea area. The visitor center operates in the 1898 train station on Broadway, with exhibits and films about the gold rush. Park rangers lead walks through the historic center.
Among the restored buildings are the 1898 Mascot saloon, set up as it was in the period; the house and cabin of the Moore family, who founded the town before the rush; and the Jefferson “Soapy” Smith hall, the swindler who dominated Skagway until he was killed in a 1898 shootout, now a small museum.
The Chilkoot Trail, about 53 km long, begins in Dyea, 15 km from Skagway, and crosses the mountain to Bennett Lake in Canada. It is done over several days, with a permit and Canada entry documents.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between two and three hours, including the film, a guided walk and the restored buildings.
Best time
In the summer season, when the buildings open to visitors operate and guided walks run. Mornings tend to be quieter before cruise ship groups arrive.
How to get there
The visitor center is at Broadway and 2nd Avenue, two blocks from the ships. Dyea is about 15 km away on a dirt road. Check the park’s website for the Chilkoot Trail schedule and permit information.
Tip
Start with the visitor center film and join a ranger-led walk. For the Chilkoot Trail, book your permit months in advance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
What is there to see at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park?
The visitor center in the 1898 station, the Mascot Saloon, the Moore family house, and Soapy Smith’s parlor in downtown Skagway.
What was the Klondike Gold Rush?
The stampede that sent tens of thousands of people to the Canadian Yukon beginning in 1897, after gold was discovered in the Klondike River. Skagway was one of the gateways.
Do you need a permit for the Chilkoot Trail?
Yes, and you need entry documents for Canada, because the trail crosses the border. Reserve in advance.