TOK
GATEWAY TO ALASKA
T
ok 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
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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.
Interior Alaska
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