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Klondike Gold Rush National Historical ParkHiker on rocky summit with clouds and mountains in background Photo credit: J Eve Griffin
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Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Chilkoot Trail
 
Hiker overlooking the Chilkoot Trail
NPS Photo
Hiker at Crater Lake, Chilkoot Trail British Columbia
 

The Chilkoot Trail is one of two main routes to the Klondike that originate in this area. Long before the gold rush, the trail was established by Tlingit people as a trade route into the interior of Canada. Fish, seal oil and seaweed were traded with the First Nations peoples for moose and caribou hides, plant materials and other goods unavailable on the coast.

The most challenging way to follow in the footsteps of the stampeders and natives is by hiking the 33-mile-long Chilkoot Trail, accessible only on foot. It is a difficult hike and usually takes three to five days. The trail begins at the Taiya River bridge near the Dyea townsite and travels over the Chilkoot Pass to Lake Bennett.

Chilkoot Trailhead Sign
Permits and Fees
ins and outs of the permit process
more...
Parks Canada logo
Additional Trail Information
link to Parks Canada
more...
Chilkoot Summit Customs Tent
Border Crossing
what's involved
more...
Group at rest on the Golden Stairs
Group Leader Guide
Preparation
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Chilkoot trailhead sign showing the National Park Service arrowhead logo and an outline of people with loads climbing up a steep, snowy pass  

Did You Know?
The Chilkoot Trail, in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, is 33 miles long and is shared with our neighbor, Parks Canada. Hikers cross the border at the top of the pass and enter British Columbia. The trail is considered to be the world's longest outdoor museum.

Last Updated: August 24, 2006 at 21:54 EST