The Chilkoot Trail: Hiking the Golden Staircase of ’98
A Challenging but Rewarding Hike
The 33-mile Chilkoot Trail, stretching from Dyea to Bennett Lake, is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in Alaska. This trail is steeped in history, with the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-98 leaving an indelible mark on the landscape. For outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, the Chilkoot Trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Tongass National Forest while tracing the footsteps of the gold seekers.
The Golden Staircase
The Chilkoot Pass, often referred to as the ‘Golden Staircase,’ is the most daunting section of the trail. This 45-degree climb requires hikers to carry a ton of supplies, weighing up to 1,500 pounds, over a distance of 3.2 kilometers. The sheer magnitude of this feat is a testament to the determination and resilience of the gold seekers who braved this treacherous terrain in search of riches.
Tlingit People: Original Trail Users and Packer Guides
The Tlingit people, originally inhabiting the area around Dyea and Haines, have a long history with the trail. They were the primary users of the trail long before the arrival of the gold seekers. In fact, the Tlingit traded extensively with the gold seekers, providing essential supplies and services, including packer guides, to aid in their journey.
“We were the ones who knew the trail, who knew the land, who knew how to survive in this harsh environment.” – A Tlingit elder, quoted in the book “The Tlingit Indians of Southeast Alaska” by Thomas F. Thornton (Smithsonian Institution, 1991)
The Tlingit people played a crucial role in the gold rush, serving as packers and guides for the gold seekers. They used their extensive knowledge of the trail and the land to help the gold seekers navigate the treacherous terrain, earning them a significant amount of money and respect from the gold seekers.
Tlingit Trade Routes
The Tlingit people had a sophisticated system of trade routes, which connected their communities throughout Southeast Alaska. These trade routes, often referred to as the “Tlingit Trail,” stretched from the coast to the interior of the state, passing through the Chilkoot Pass.
“The Tlingit Trail was a network of trails that connected our communities, allowing us to trade and share goods and knowledge.” – A Tlingit elder, quoted in the book “The Tlingit Indians of Southeast Alaska” by Thomas F. Thornton (Smithsonian Institution, 1991)
Day-by-Day Hiking Description
The Chilkoot Trail can be divided into six sections, each with its unique challenges and breathtaking views:
### Dyea to Canyon City (6.5 miles)
* The trail begins at the Dyea Flats, where the gold seekers and packers set up camp.
* The first section of the trail follows the Dyea River, passing through a lush forest of spruce and hemlock trees.
* The trail then steepens, leading hikers through a series of switchbacks to the Canyon City campsite.
### Canyon City to Sheep Camp (8.5 miles)
* The trail continues to climb, passing through a series of rocky outcroppings and steep switchbacks.
* Hikers will encounter their first major landmark, the Canyon City Creek, which flows into the Dyea River.
* The trail then levels out, leading hikers to the Sheep Camp campsite.
### Sheep Camp to Happy Camp (7.5 miles)
* The trail continues to climb, passing through a series of steep switchbacks and rocky outcroppings.
* Hikers will encounter their second major landmark, the Happy Camp Creek, which flows into the Dyea River.
* The trail then levels out, leading hikers to the Happy Camp campsite.
### Happy Camp to Deep Lake (5.5 miles)
* The trail follows the Happy Camp Creek, passing through a series of lush meadows and spruce forests.
* Hikers will encounter their third major landmark, the Deep Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by towering mountains.
* The trail then levels out, leading hikers to the Deep Lake campsite.
### Deep Lake to Lindeman (6.5 miles)
* The trail follows the Lindeman River, passing through a series of steep switchbacks and rocky outcroppings.
* Hikers will encounter their fourth major landmark, the Lindeman Creek, which flows into the Dyea River.
* The trail then levels out, leading hikers to the Lindeman campsite.
### Lindeman to Bennett Lake (6.5 miles)
* The trail follows the Bennett Lake Creek, passing through a series of lush meadows and spruce forests.
* Hikers will encounter their final major landmark, the Bennett Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by towering mountains.
* The trail then levels out, leading hikers to the Bennett Lake campsite.
Historical Artifacts Along the Trail
The Chilkoot Trail is dotted with historical artifacts, preserved in the cold and damp environment. Hikers can expect to see:
* Boots, stoves, and tools preserved in the cold, serving as a reminder of the gold seekers’ struggles.
* The remains of the tramways and aerial tramlines, used to transport supplies and people across the Chilkoot Pass.
* The Palm Sunday avalanche of 1898, which killed hundreds of gold seekers and packers, is still visible today.
The Palm Sunday Avalanche
On Palm Sunday, April 17, 1898, a massive avalanche swept through the Chilkoot Pass, killing hundreds of gold seekers and packers. The avalanche was triggered by a combination of heavy snowfall and the weight of the tramways and supplies.
Practical Info
Before embarking on the Chilkoot Trail, hikers should be aware of the following:
* **Permits:** A permit is required to hike the Chilkoot Trail. Permits can be obtained through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park website.
* **Border Crossing:** Hikers will need to cross the US-Canada border to reach the Bennett Lake campsite. Be sure to have the necessary documentation and follow all border regulations.
* **Bear Safety:** The Chilkoot Trail is home to a healthy population of bears. Hikers should take necessary precautions, including carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.
* **Weather:** The Chilkoot Trail is subject to unpredictable weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for rain, snow, and extreme cold.
Best Season and Fitness Level
The Chilkoot Trail is best hiked in the summer months, from July to September. The trail is considered challenging, with steep inclines and uneven terrain. Hikers should have a good level of physical fitness and experience with backpacking and wilderness travel.
Gear List Basics
Hikers should bring the following gear:
* Backpack and rain gear
* Hiking boots and bear spray
* First aid kit and emergency shelter
* Food and water for the duration of the hike
* Map and compass or GPS device
* Headlamp and extra batteries
Learn More
* Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park website for permit information and trail conditions.
* Parks Canada website for information on the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Gold Rush.
* University of Alaska Fairbanks library for research and resources on the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Gold Rush.
Sources
* Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park website
* Parks Canada website
* “The Tlingit Indians of Southeast Alaska” by Thomas F. Thornton (Smithsonian Institution, 1991)
* “The Klondike Gold Rush” by Pierre Berton (Doubleday Canada, 1972)
* “The Chilkoot Trail” by John E. Caine (University of Alaska Fairbanks, 1987)