While Alaska's natural beauty is incomparable, a trip to the state is incomplete without witnessing the glorious history of the Klondike Gold Rush, an event that shaped the country's history in many ways. At the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, learn all about the almost overnight mass migration through museums, visitors centers, and a collection of old saloons and historic buildings. Also, follow the footsteps of the immigrants centuries ago through the Chilkoot Trail, a 33-mile (53km) hike through the best wilderness and historic relics of the region.
The Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site is located along the turquoise waters of Lake Chilkoot, with vast lake shores and streaming rivers making for an idyllic setting for some relaxation. One can enjoy a quick meal at one of the many picnic spots at the park, then head for some fishing, kayaking, or ice skating activities, depending on the weather. In the spring, one is most likely to spot a brown bear relaxing along the river, having descended from the icy tundras and looking for some red salmon.
Haines Sheldon Museum is a charming local museum that aims to preserve the rich history, art, and culture of Haines and the surrounding region. Located on the main street, the museum is a must-visit stop to appreciate the unique confluence of cultures of Chilkat Valley. Home to over 4000 artifacts and numerous documents and photographs, the museum collections emphasize the cultural exposure of indigenous people, more specifically, The Tlingit art and culture. The museum also has a gift shop with unique items to take home as a souvenir.
When driving down Haines’ Main Street, this century-old building is impossible to miss, especially given the mammoth hammer that stands guard at its gateway. As the name suggests, the Hammer Museum features an unusual collection of over 1400 hammers. The sole museum of its kind in the world, this bizarre destination is the pride and joy of Dave Pahl, a former blacksmith, whose eclectic collection of tools now has explorers flocking the museum doors. During the course of your meanderings along the surreal displays of the Hammer Museum, you will learn about the varied uses of this humble tool.
Witness the remarkable sight of thousands of Bald Eagles gathering each year at Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Surrounded by pristine nature and a confluence of three rivers, the nature preserve encompasses over 49,320 acres (199,59 hectares). Attracting photographers and birdwatchers from across the world, the preserve is one of the largest Bald Eagle congregations. The right time to visit is during the months of October and November. Capture some iconic snaps of the majestic birds, sometimes flying or resting along the tree branches. You can also witness the giant birds feast on the salmons. Take a float ride to get up close to view and experience the thrills of birdwatching.
Accessible to a cruise ship, the Fort William H. Seward is a historic landmark that was built between 1902 and 1904. Covering up to 4,410 acres (17.84-kilometer square), the fort was the first military post in the state. Today, it is one of the popular attractions in Haines, where visitors and locals come here to camp and soak up the scenic view. Offering a fantastic view of the harbor, open fields, and historic buildings, visitors have the opportunity to dig deep into the history of Alaska while enjoying the scenic pleasures. There are lovely cafes and restaurants along with exciting galleries in the area.
The Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site is located along the turquoise waters of Lake Chilkoot, with vast lake shores and streaming rivers making for an idyllic setting for some relaxation. One can enjoy a quick meal at one of the many picnic spots at the park, then head for some fishing, kayaking, or ice skating activities, depending on the weather. In the spring, one is most likely to spot a brown bear relaxing along the river, having descended from the icy tundras and looking for some red salmon.
While Alaska's natural beauty is incomparable, a trip to the state is incomplete without witnessing the glorious history of the Klondike Gold Rush, an event that shaped the country's history in many ways. At the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, learn all about the almost overnight mass migration through museums, visitors centers, and a collection of old saloons and historic buildings. Also, follow the footsteps of the immigrants centuries ago through the Chilkoot Trail, a 33-mile (53km) hike through the best wilderness and historic relics of the region.
The White Pass and Yukon Route is a railroad bridge that connects Skagway in Alaska to the Whitehorse in Canada. The route was set up in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush to ease transportation of miners and freight. This 110-mile route is an iconic structure registered as a International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Check the website to know more
The Corrington Museum of Alaskan History is a beautiful museum that reveals Alaskan history to the core. This museum comprises an impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits and a number of rare items that come together to recite the tale of Alaska's progress. The Corrington Museum of Alaskan History is a must visit for true history buffs. Call for details.