Tok

GATEWAY TO ALASKA

Tok is often referred to as the “Gateway to Alaska,” due to it being the first major community you encounter, in Alaska, when heading north. The Alaska Highway also intersects here with the Tok Cut-off, which leads to the Richardson and Glenn Highways; the main access routes to Glennallen, Valdez and Anchorage.

This area was originally settled by Athabascan Indians and the name “Tok” is thought to be derived from an Athabascan word meaning “water.” The origin of the town name, however, remains somewhat controversial. Some thought it came from the old mining maps from the late 1800s (long before Tok existed), which called the area “Tok/Slana.” While others have said it was named after a construction worker’s dog. However the name was decided, the modern community of Tok began as an Alaska Road Commission Camp built for the construction and maintenance of the Alaska Highway.

Today the town has a population of approximately 1250. Its economy is based on tourism and for its size, Tok offers more hotel rooms and campsites than any other town in the state. Despite that distinction, it is still recommended you secure reservations at least a day in advance.

Tok is also known as the “Sled Dog Capital of Alaska,” which is apparent from the number of kennels in town. The race of Champions began in 1954 and takes place every March in Tok. It has become one of the most elite sprint dog races in North America.

Visitor info ACCoMMoDAtion

Mainstreet Visitor Center has statewide information that will help you plan for your entire trip. Tourist attractions, RV parks, campgrounds and hotels as well as local information on places to stay and things to see and do in the Tok area. The Visitor Center is also home to a museum & gift shop. Mile 1314 Alaska Hwy. 907-883-5775 The Alaska Public Lands Information Center is on the Alaska Highway adjacent to the Visitor Center. There is a trip planning area along with a display of native arts and crafts. The counselors at APLIC are very well informed about the State, especially the remote regions to the east of Tok and into the Yukon. 907-883-5667 Burnt Paw & Cabins Outback B&B is an authentic Alaskan Bed & Breakfast experience. Each cabin has its own Alaskan theme and includes a microwave, fridge, Wi-fi & satellite TV. A continental breakfast will be provided to guests to enjoy in their room. Look for the sign for Burnt Paw Gifts next to the Post Office at mile 1324.3 Alaska Highway. For reservations call 907-883-4121. Snowshoe Motel has modern motel units with in-room coffee maker, fridge, & microwave. Very reasonable rates. There is a Laundromat with state of the art machines. 1314 Alaska Highway. 907883-4511 or 800-478-4511

CAMpinG

Sourdough Campground has wide, level sites with full and partial hookups. Great tent sites, free Wi-fi and a car wash. The café is open for breakfast, lunch & Dinner. Guests can win a free breakfast at the nightly “pancake toss,” which is fun for the whole family. There is also an openair museum with gold rush memorabilia. Located 1.75 miles from Tok Visitor Center on the Tok Cut-off. 907-883-5543 Eagle Trail State Recreation Site is 16 miles south of Tok at mile 109.5 of the Tok Cut-Off. The campground has 35 sites, five of which will accommodate most RV’s. There is a picnic shelter, drinking water and toilets are available. Enjoy a walk on the one mile nature trail or the 2.5 mile hiking trail with an overview of the Tok River Valley and the surrounding mountains. Jack Wade Gold Company Bonnie Jenkins has been mining, designing & making fine gold nugget jewelry in Alaska for more than 40 years. She has displays of mining artifacts, old guns, early Alaska antiques and some very large gold nuggets. One nugget weighs a whopping 5 lbs. Stop by and see Bonnie’s excellent collection. Next to Three Bears Grocery. 907-883-5887

sHoppinG

Burnt Paw Gift Shop has a large selection of Native and Alaskan made gifts at very reasonable prices. Next to the Post Office. 907-883-4121 All Alaska Gifts Enjoy a sample of their delicious homemade fudge while you browse the gift shop featuring; T-shirts, jewelry, native crafts and gold nuggets. Across from the Visitors Center. 907-883-5081

Northern Energy Tesoro gas, diesel, oil & propane. Tire sales & repair, oil changes & lube service. 24-hour fuel at the pump with a credit card. Self service RV wash, dump station, air & water free with fill-up. Mile 1314.8 Alaska Highway. 907-883-4251 Young’s Chevron gas, diesel, propane, convenience store, deli and espresso. Automotive and truck repairs. Tire sales and service. Car wash, dump station and water available. At the junction of the Alaska Highway and Tok Cut-off. 907-883-2821

sErViCEs