CHILKOOT PASS Meaning and
Definition
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Chilkoot Pass refers to a historically significant mountain pass located in the Coast Mountains of northwestern North America, specifically in the Yukon territory of Canada and the U.S. state of Alaska. The pass connects the headwaters of the Yukon River to the coastal inlet of Dyea, Alaska, on the Pacific Ocean. It gained prominence during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century.
Spanning roughly 3,500 feet (1,100 meters) in elevation, Chilkoot Pass became a vital thoroughfare for gold prospectors seeking to reach the Klondike region. The pass presented a major obstacle due to its steep, treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, making it a formidable challenge for those attempting to cross it.
The Chilkoot Pass holds significant historical and cultural importance due to its association with the Klondike Gold Rush. It served as one of the primary routes for prospectors traveling to the goldfields, with thousands embarking on the arduous journey. The pass became a bottleneck for the "stampede" of gold seekers, leading to long queues and fierce competition to cross.
Today, Chilkoot Pass remains an iconic symbol of the Klondike Gold Rush and attracts hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs who are eager to explore its rugged beauty and retrace the steps of the gold rush pioneers. It serves as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of fortune and the immense challenges faced by those who ventured into the untamed wilderness of the North American frontier.
Etymology of CHILKOOT PASS
The word "Chilkoot Pass" derives from the Tlingit language, which is spoken by the Indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest coast of North America. "Chilkoot" comes from the Tlingit word "Chiilkhoot", which means "eagle's beak" or "eagle's perch". This name is inspired by the shape of Chilkoot Pass, resembling the beak or perch of an eagle. The word "Pass" here refers to a mountain pass, a route that allows crossing a mountain range. The Chilkoot Pass is located in the Coast Mountains of Canada and the United States, specifically in the boundary between the Canadian province of British Columbia and the U.S. state of Alaska. It holds historical significance as a part of the Klondike Gold Rush route in the late 19th century.
