Yukon
The railway built of gold
Visitors can experience gold rush history aboard this historic train ride
In 1887 thousands of miners hoping to strike it rich beyond their wildest dreams headed to Alaska in search of gold. Despite challenging terrain, a harsh climate and a lack of basic services, tens of thousands of men using hundreds of tons of explosives were able to create the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway (WP&YR), otherwise known as “the railway built of gold.”
AN ADVENTURE TO REMEMBER: The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway passes through breathtaking scenery that is known to capture the hearts of travellers. —Paul Adams photo
Constructed in 1898, this narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles and features steep grades of up to 3.9 per cent, heart-pounding turns of 16 degrees, two tunnels and a number of bridges and trestles.
“The planning and hard work that must have gone into this project is almost unimaginable,” said RVers Paul Adams, who found the railway trip was one of the best ways to discover the region’s gold rush history. “You get a whole new sense of appreciation for the people who overcame such incredible challenges and created something that can only be described as an engineering masterpiece.”
Travellers riding the WP&YR can expect to take in some spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, gorges and waterfalls. There are a number of exciting WP&YR trips offered through the peak summer season; these options allow visitors to customize their adventure by choosing their starting location and trip length.
Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark—an honour also bestowed on the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty—the WP&YR provides a genuine historical experience through vintage rail equipment, fascinating historic sites and informative narration.
Once the most convenient way for prospectors to connect to the Klondike, the WP&YR now provides the opportunity for visitors to connect with the past and explore the majestic terrain between the communities of Whitehorse, Yukon, and Skagway, Alaska.
For more info visit www.whitepassrailroad.com.