Ken's Journal
No. 5 - Summer 2005

The Alaska Highway, Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, AK (1422 Miles)
June 15-21, 2005 - Days 15-21 on the road. Part II.


A view through the window of the WP&YR train to Skagway. You'll notice it's a bit overcast - a lot overcast actually. This is the story of my trip so far.

One of the old trestles of the WP&YR - thankfully now retired. The WP&YR was built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush - this narrow gauge (36") railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark - a designation shared with the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty. For more info on the engineering, construction and current operations at www.wpyr.com .

Once the railroad was built, the Chilkoot Pass - route of many Gold Rush hopefuls - was retired. After the Gold Rush, the WP&YR railroad was a major link in the transportation of supplies for the construction of the Alaska Highway during WWII. Today, the railroad is used only for tour operations and provides transportation for hikers of the Chilkoot trail and hikers to a couple glaciers along the route.

A view from the railroad.

The train in front of me - taken from the platform between two passenger cars.

Transportation in Skagway.

More transportation in Skagway - the Coolie! The primary reason for Skagway to exist today is for the tourist trade - expect higher than normal prices for everything.

Detail on one of the totems found around town.

Another.

Shops in Skagway - you'll find lots of these, lots of restaurants, a few museums and lots to look at!! .

The Coolie - he said it's not so hard a job - Skagway is flat - and the tips are good as long as he keeps the relationship with the customer going - does this look like a job opportunity for you?


Next - the end of the Alaska Highway at Delta Junction, AK
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