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Starting in Skagway

BY: Yen Ly | Category: USA | Submitted: 2011-05-04 15:39:19
 
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The port of Skagway offers a wealth of history and excitement that cruise ship guests and other travellers indulge in every summer. It's colorful past is the reason why Skagway remains on the map today. The spectacular scenery and unspoiled nature is what keeps the multitude of people all over the world returning every summer. The views of the Lynn Canal and the abundance of wildlife in the area create a picture perfect scene that all visitors wish to capture upon arrival.

Skagway is often referred to as the gateway to the Klondike. Although no gold was actually found in Alaska, during the late 1800's thousands of miners journeyed north to seek their fortune. Because of this sudden influx of people the population in the area exploded as gold seekers gathered their supplies. Canadian Mounties required that each man had 1200lbs of provisions before they were allowed to make their way into the Yukon. From this flood of population Skagway grew into a city of 8 000 to 10 000 people which made it the largest city in Alaska at the time. Miners setting up tent cities, infamous gangsters who terrorized the trails, and the "working women" of Skagway all were instrumental in creating the legends that steep the history of this now quiet town nestled in the coastal mountains.

Vacationers and residents can relive the Klondike history at the Klondike Gold Fields located just outside of town. It is a privately owned facility that greets guests of all ages. The outdoor museum features a restored 350 ton gold dredging machine. Their fully costumed guides narrate the saga of miners taking to the north in search of gold. Many other features make the Gold Fields a entertaining stop for the whole family. The establishment is wheelchair accessible and people of all ages can try their luck at panning for gold in warm water! There is a dog sledding demonstration done by a racing team and their musher, and everyone can interact with the race dogs and their puppies. There is also a full restaurant and brewery on grounds to satisfy those hungry travellers. The newest addition is the 40° below room where guests may experience what mushing teams endure during the famous dog sled races like the Iditarod.

The Klondike Highway is a 445 mile road leading out of Skagway which offers stunning views at every twist of the road as it climbs almost 3000 ft. above sea level. Along the highway during winter snow mobiles riders are seen braving the steep powdery white mountain slopes. In the summer the views of Tormented Valley, the famous Chilkoot Trail, and even a bear or two can all be seen from the highway. This is the real wilderness disturbed only by the distant whistle of a narrow gage train ascending the White Pass Summit and the occasional tourist stopping at one of the many marked out photo stops.

Just thirty minutes north of Skagway is a quiet gem that many have made part of their destination's journey. The Yukon Suspension Bridge was first completed in 2006, by Surespan Group, a Canadian company, and recently privately acquired. Hidden among the mountains the Bridge is an attraction that encompasses nature, beauty and wildlife. The site includes an interpretive center retelling the story of harsh conditions being the way of life in the North during the Gold Rush era. Native guides escort guests through the site or more independent people can discover the area on their own.

The Yukon Suspension Bridge is open from May to September and most guests visiting the site come from cruise ships docked in close-by Skagway. However many people driving along the Klondike highway stop over intrigued by the unique area. The Bridge itself spans fifty-seven feet above the Tutshi River and visitors can often catch a glimpse of a bear fishing out of its banks, or rafters navigating its rapids. On the other side of the bridge there is a viewing platform which gives way to an easily accessible walking trail. The site also has a gift shop, café, and plenty of seating for those weary travellers. Here vacationers can marvel and imagine the struggle that the miners endured when making their way to search for the gold up in the Klondike. The inspiring beauty of this area leaves a memory not easily forgotten. The Yukon Suspension Bridge is a world class tourist destination that has somehow retained its intimate beauty.

Skagway and its surrounding areas offer adventure and sightseeing opportunities that draw people from around the world. Weather they are cruise ship guests on luxury liners, or backpackers setting up camp at one of the many camp grounds all would agree that this is a unique place that is hidden from the world, but available for all to uncover. Many permanent or seasonal residents had once been visitors who fell in love with the air, the water, the mountains, and the people, and decided to make Skagway home.

Article Source: http://articles.travelandtourisminfo.com/

About Author / Additional Info:
http://www.yukonsuspensionbridge.com/

http://www.klondikegolddredge.com/


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