Chilkoot Trail History

A narrow corridor carved by water and ice. A lifeline from the coast to interior. A route engineered to move hundreds of people. A recreational trail to explore the intersection of nature and history. The Chilkoot Trail is all of these things and more. On this page explore general trail history, or get in depth with detailed trail stories.
 
Black and white photo of two people on a dry riverbed with mountains and trees in background
Early Chilkoot Expeditions

Some of the early expeditions that crossed the Chilkoot Trail and helped it become a critical gold rush route.

Black and white photo of 9 bundled men standing at the Alaska-British Columbia border in the snow.
The Gold Rush Chilkoot Trail

Learn how this traditional route became a major highway conveying thousands of people from coastal Alaska to interior Canada.

Color modern image of 6 people on a wooden beam, one person stands below
Establishing the Modern Chilkoot Trail

All but abandoned after the gold rush, today the Chilkoot Trail is a popular recreational hike. Learn what's happened between now and then.

 

Dive Into Chilkoot Trail Stories

Loading results...

    Last updated: July 23, 2018

    Park footer

    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
    P.O. Box 517

    Skagway, AK 99840

    Phone:

    907 983-9200

    Contact Us