Rivers of the North

The boom of the Yukon Gold Rush relied on reliable boat travel. In 1896, there were 7 steamboats operating in the Yukon, but by 1899, that number had increased to 30.

Named after the man whom modern historians credit with finding the first gold in Alaska, the James Mason Steamboat takes guests on a 15-minute tour of the body of water known as The Rivers of the North. The James Mason is modeled after the Portus B. Weare Steamer, which serviced the Yukon in the late 1800s. The steamboat provides some chairs for those who prefer to sit, but most guests stand for the duration. In busier months, a replica of a 1900 fishing boat (fitted with safety rails) also circles The Rivers of the North.

The steamboat (or fishing boat) circles a narrow island that is home to forest trees (mostly pines but also some oaks and cedars) that are able to be grown in Southern California (although not specifically representative of Alaska). Also on the island is a small cabin with a boating dock. Along the way, guests see a native Alaskan camp. On the far side of The Rivers of the North is a wooden ranger’s tower. As the steamboat returns to dock, the guide points out signs of the detrimental effects of oil drilling, overfishing, and deforestation on the area.

Next: Aeronautics Station