About Fort Egbert National Historic Site
In 1899, the Fortymile region and upper Yukon valley were awash with gold miners and settlers lured in by the Klondike Gold Rush. Reports of lawlessness among the newcomers eventually reached Washington D.C. through the tortuously slow communications available at the time. The Army's response, the establishment of Fort Egbert on the Yukon River a few miles from Canada, was to bring profound changes to the region and reshape Alaska's ties to the rest of the nation.Although the fort was largely abandoned in 1911, an Army Signal Corps contingent remained there to operate a telegraph and wireless station until 1925. Today the BLM, in cooperation with the local Eagle Historical Society and Museums, manages five restored structures at Fort Egbert, which is part of the Eagle Historic District National Historic Landmark. Exhibits, an interpretive trail, and a campground are available for visitors.Learn more about the history of Fort Egbert.
How to Get There
From Tok, AK, travel east of the AK highway to Tetlin Junction, where you will turn north on the Taylor Highway. Proceed 163 miles north on the Taylor Highway to Ft. Egbert in Eagle, Alaska.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Fort Egbert National Historic Site
Heading to Fort Egbert National Historic Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Fort Egbert National Historic Site?
No central reservation system listed for Fort Egbert National Historic Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14910) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Fort Egbert National Historic Site?
From Tok, AK, travel east of the AK highway to Tetlin Junction, where you will turn north on the Taylor Highway. Proceed 163 miles north on the Taylor Highway to Ft. Egbert in Eagle, Alaska.
How do I contact Fort Egbert National Historic Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-474-2200 or email: EasternInterior@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
