Chilkoot Trail | The Canadian Encyclopedia

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Chilkoot Trail

Article by Bart F. Deeg

Published Online February 6, 2006

Last Edited March 4, 2015

Today the trail has been somewhat improved and restored by US and Canadian park officials and offers designated campsites and other amenities. However, for the some 2000 people yearly who seek its adventure, it still represents a challenging 4-5 day hike.
Chilkoot Pass
Packers ascending summit of Chilkoot Pass, 1897-98, en route to the Klondike Gold Rush (courtesy Library and Archives Canada/C-5142).
The Chilkoot Trail, alternatively known as the Klondike Gold Rush Trail, is one of the most rugged and demanding long-distance trails in Canada. It extends about 53 km from Dyea, on the Alaska Panhandle, over the Coastal mountain range to Bennett, BC. Historically the trail dates to the 1897-98 KLONDIKE GOLD RUSH, when an estimated 30 000 gold seekers and traders fought their way over the tortuous route, braving a wild terrain, high altitudes and frequent severe weather changes.

Today the trail has been somewhat improved and restored by US and Canadian park officials and offers designated campsites and other amenities. However, for the some 2000 people yearly who seek its adventure, it still represents a challenging 4-5 day hike.

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