Tok is often referred to as the “Gateway to Alaska,” because it is the first major community in Alaska you come to when heading north. The Alaska Highway also intersects with the Tok Cut-off leading to Glennallen. From Glennallen you can head south to Valdez on the Richardson Highway or west to Anchorage on the Glenn Highway.

The 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 an 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. Many locals are involved in dog racing on a recreational and professional level. Everyone from professional mushers to young children take part in sprint dog races, which are very entertaining. The race of Champions began in 1954 and takes place every March. It has become one of the most elite sprint dog races in North America.

Mainstreet Visitor Center has statewide information for your entire trip planning needs. 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. 907-883-5775
www.tokalaskainfo.com

The Alaska Public Lands Information Center in Tok is open year-round. It is located in the combined facility which also houses the State Troopers. It is on Mainstreet adjacent to the Tok Visitor Center. There is a trip planning area, fish, bear and bird exhibits, along with a display of native arts and crafts. The counselors at APLIC are well trained and have lots of information about the State and specifically about the remote regions to the east of Tok and into the Yukon.

In July of 1990, Tok faced extinction when a lightning-caused forest fire jumped two rivers and the Alaska Highway, putting both residents and buildings in peril. The town was evacuated and even the efforts of over a thousand firefighters could not stop the fire. At the last minute a “miracle wind” (so labelled by Tok’s residents) came up, diverting the fire just short of the first building. Evidence of the burn can be seen on both sides of the highway just east of Tok.

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Best Places to Stay in Tok, AK

Burnt Paw Cabins

Burnt Paw Cabins 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.

 

Camping in Tok, AK

Sourdough Campground

Wide, level, full and partial hookups, great tent sites, Wi-fi available. High-pressure carwash. Open-air museum with Gold Rush memorabilia. Authentic sourdough pancake breakfast buffet including reindeer sausage and lunch & dinner specials. 

Tundra RV Park & Bar

Tundra RV Park and Bar has 78 full and partial hookup RV sites, tent sites and is home to a popular local bar. The forested park like setting gives guests a relaxing and peaceful camping experience. 50/30/20 amp sites, pull-throughs, clean restrooms, Laundromat, Wi-fi hotspot and RV dump station.

 

Best Things to Do in Tok, AK

All Alaska Gifts

Has the best selection of T-Shirts, Gold Nugget Jewelry & Alaskan Souvenirs in the State. Try our fresh homemade fudge & free WiFi. Check at the store for the most up to date road conditions on the way to Chicken, Alaska. Don’t miss one of Alaska’s best kept secrets.

Mukluk Land 

Come discover one of Alaska’s most unique attractions. Since 1985 Mukluk Land has been entertaining guests with fun activities and an eclectic collection of Alaskan memorabilia. This is a great stop for families with children. Activities include mini golf, skeet-ball, whack-a-mole, and more.

Eagle Trail State Recreation Site 

16 miles south of Tok at mile 109.5 of the Tok Cut-Off. Enjoy multiple hiking trails, some of which offer views over the Tok River Valley and the surrounding mountains.

 

Tok Alaska FAQs:

What is Tok Alaska famous for?

Tok is famous for being the first Alaskan community when you drive north through Canada on the famous Alaska Highway. It provides a junction of two of Alaska’s major highways; The Alaska Highway and The Tok Cut-off. The Tok Cut-off turns South towards Glennallen, Valdez and Anchorage. The Alaska Highway continues north to reach Delta Junction where it connects to the Richardson Highway to Fairbanks.

Tok calls itself the Sled Dog Capital of Alaska, as many of its residents participate in the sport. You can catch a dog sled ride in both the summer and the winter in Tok.  Dog mushing is Alaska’s official state sport.

How far is Tok from Anchorage?

It is about 328 miles from Tok to Anchorage on Alaska Highway 1, which is made up of the Tok Cut-off and the Glenn Highway.

 Is the road from Fairbanks to Tok paved?

Yes, the road from Fairbanks to Tok is paved. You will be on the Richardson Highway from Fairbanks to Delta Junction and the Alaska Highway from Delta Junction to Tok. However, you will often encounter road construction during the summer months as they work to resurface and maintain the road.

How to get to Tok, Alaska?

Because Tok, Alaska is a hub of several highways, you can get to Tok from Fairbanks, Anchorage and via the Yukon in Canada.

From Canada, take the Alaska Highway north to Tok.

From Fairbanks, take the Richardson Highway south to Delta Junction and then follow the Alaska Highway to Tok.

From Anchorage take the Glenn Highway to Glennallen, turn north (left) onto the Richardson Highway for 14 miles and then turn right at Gakona Junction to take the Tok Cut-off 125 miles to Tok.

Things to do in Tok, Alaska?

There are plenty of things to do in Tok, Alaska! Visit Muklukland, an outdoor museum that is fun for all ages, and nearly every Alaskan takes an opportunity to eat at Fast Eddy’s on their way through town. Go fishing and try your luck on one of Tok’s many rivers or lakes. Enjoy outdoor activities like camping, rafting, aurora watching, or snowmobiling during the wintertime. Tok is a cultural trade center for many local interior villages, so you’ll find wonderful authentic indigenous artwork in the local gift shops.

How did Tok, Alaska get its name?

The 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.

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