News Release

Chilkoot Trail Closed Until Further Notice Due to Flooding Conditions

Date: September 7, 2017
Contact: Ben Hayes, 907-983-9206

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park has closed the Chilkoot Trail to all use due to flooding conditions along the Taiya River. Park officials will assess conditions on the morning of Friday, September 8 to determine if the trail can be reopened. Contact the Trail Center in Skagway or call 907-983-9234 for the latest trail conditions and closure information.
 
The National Weather Service Juneau Office issued a Flood Advisory on the evening of Wednesday September 6 after the Taiya River reached moderate flood stage of 16.5 feet. By the morning of Thursday September 7, the Taiya River had risen to 17.8 feet, higher than predicted. Flooding submerged sections of the Chilkoot Trail with dangerous swift-flowing, waist-deep water. The trail is closed until further notice and will be reassessed on Friday morning.
 
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park was created in 1976 to preserve and interpret the historic structures, trails, artifacts, landscapes, and stories associated with the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-98. The park preserves 23 historic structures in Skagway, the historic Chilkoot Trail in partnership with Parks Canada, and is the most visited national park site in Alaska.


Update:  As of 8:30am on Friday, September 8th, the Chilkoot Trail reopened.  For current conditons please contact the park.