Klondike Gold Fields - Yokon Territory

When gold was discovered in the Klondike Gold Fields in 1896, it triggered the last great gold rush of the nineteenth century. By 1898, over 100,000 "stampeders," as they were known, had rushed to the Yukon, though only 30,000 completed the then-hazardous journey. The most common stampeder route to the Yukon passed over the dangerous Chilkoot Pass – a perilous 1,000 foot climb spread over only half a mile, culminating in the "golden staircase," 1,500 rocky steps carved out of the mountain top. Once the climb was completed, hopeful gold miners had to then complete a treacherous 500 mile boat ride through the rapids of the Yukon River before reaching Dawson City.

Today, there are many fun family-friendly activities to be shared. You can try your hand at panning the river for gold at Dredge #4, a currently operational gold dredge, or you can raft down the Yukon River, a family-friendly river with Class 1 rapids. For the more adventurous, try hiking or biking the Ridge Road Heritage Trail right into the gold fields, and watch miners at work. Trail maps are available courtesy of the Dawson City visitor center. Who knows, you may just find a gold nugget!

The Dawson City visitor's center is a great resource for Klondike adventure seekers and is open 7 days a week! Have fun in the gold fields—today may be your lucky day!