Tok, Alaska
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 Glenn Highway leading to Glennallen, Valdez and Anchorage. The Glenn Highway between Tok and Glennallen is known as the Tok Cut-off.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alaska Highway Celebration Events
Tok 75th Anniversary Parade
Tok, Alaska - July 4th 2017
Parade starts at 11am at Fast Eddy's parking lot.
Field events follow the parade immediately across from
DOT where parade ends.
Parade starts at 11am at Fast Eddy's parking lot.
Field events follow the parade immediately across from
DOT where parade ends.
