State Parks and National Parks

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Historic buildings in Skagway and portions of the Chilkoot and White Pass trails, all prominent in the 1898 gold rush, are included in this park in southeastern Alaska.

The park also includes a small visitor center in the Pioneer Square Historic District in Seattle, Washington, in recognition of the fact that it was from Seattle that most prospectors left for the gold fields. The Seattle address is in Pioneer Square at 319 2nd Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98104.

Access to Skagway is by ferry, cruise ship, scheduled airline, air taxi or the South Klondike Highway. The Skagway visitor center offers interpretive programs, guided walking tours and information on hiking trails.

From May to September the historic Moore House, built in 1897 by the town's founders, is open.

Hikers on the 33-mile Chilkoot Pass Trail from Dyea, Alaska to Bennett, British Columbia, need to be properly outfitted and prepared for cold temperatures, snow and rain and rapidly changing weather conditions. There are primitive campsites along the trail.

Permits are required for all trail use. Reservations for permits are strongly recommended. Call 800-661-0486 or 867-667-3910 for more information.

Photo credits in order: Photo by Sandra Snell-Dobert, courtesy of National Park Service. Courtesy of National Park Service. Courtesy of National Park Service.