Tok Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tok, Alaska with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay and much more.


Introduction to Tok

Tok is a small community located in Interior Alaska, United States of America. The town has a rich history, starting as a trading post for traders, prospectors, and trappers traveling along the Tanana River in the early 20th century.

Today, Tok serves as a popular stopping point for travelers and adventurers exploring Alaska’s vast wilderness. The town offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and amazing views.

This guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Tok, Alaska.

List of Places to Visit in Tok

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tok Historical Society & Museum: This museum showcases the history of Tok through exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and life-size dioramas. Visitors can also learn about Alaska’s gold rush history and early Native American cultures.

  • Alaska Public Lands Information Center: Located off Richardson Highway, the center provides information about parks, recreational opportunities, and public lands available in the area.

Natural Attractions of Tok: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve: The park, located just a short drive from Tok, offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and wildlife watching. The park boasts the highest concentration of glaciers in Alaska’s national parks, making it an impressive sight.

  • Delta State Recreation Site: It offers great views of the Delta and Donnelly river valleys, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. The most impressive feature of the area is undoubtedly the Northern Lights, which are visible on clear winter nights.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tok

  • Angel Creek Trail: This trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that stretches 14 miles, starting at the Angel Creek Campground. It follows the Angel Creek, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, and can be completed in a full day hike.

  • Mentasta Lake Trail: This 11.2-mile trail starts at the Mentasta Lake Campground and offers great views of the lake and the surrounding forested areas. It is one of the most popular trails in Tok for hikers and mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Tok: Activities and Tours

  • Bird Watching: Tok is home to a vast array of bird species, including Sandhill cranes, tundra swans, American pipits, and many other species. The Delta Jazz Festival is a great annual event that includes guided bird-watching tours in the area.

  • Explore the Northern Lights: Tok is one of the best places in Alaska to watch the Northern Lights. During the winter months (September to April), the town hosts an annual Northern Lights Festival, which features guided tours, presentations, and other related activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tok

Day Activity
1 Explore Tok Historical Society & Museum and Alaska Public Lands Information Center
2 Hike at Angel Creek Trail and have lunch at Fast Eddy’s
3 Take a wildlife photography tour to see bears, wolves, and moose
4 Explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
5 Take a scenic drive on the Taylor Highway and visit the village of Chicken
6 Go for a fishing trip at Delta State Recreation Site
7 End the trip with a Northern Lights viewing tour

Food and Drink Scene of Tok

Must-Try Dishes

  • Salmon Candy: This sweet and savory snack is made by smoking salmon with a brown sugar glaze.

  • Alaska Reindeer Sausage: This dish is popular in Alaska and typically consists of sliced reindeer sausage, served with mustard and a side of sourdough bread and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Alaskan Amber Beer: This beer is a favorite amongst locals and is considered the “official beer of Alaska”. It has a smooth, malty flavor with hints of caramel.

  • Wild Rose Petal Tea: This tea is made from wild rose petals that grow wild in the surrounding areas. It has a sweet, floral flavor that is perfect for sipping on a cold Alaskan day.

Where to Stay in Tok: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Burnt Paw & Cabins Outback: This pet-friendly hotel is located on the outskirts of Tok. They offer comfortable cabins with kitchens and dining areas. Guests can also choose to stay in the main lodge, which features comfortable rooms and a communal area with a fireplace.

  • Young’s Motel: It offers affordable accommodation with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. They also have an on-site restaurant that serves local dishes.

What to Buy in Tok: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Birch Bark Baskets: You can find a wide range of birch bark baskets at the Tok Visitor Center. These baskets make unique souvenirs and are perfect for storing small items or as decorative pieces.

  • Alaska Native Art: The town has a few art galleries that showcase the works of local Alaska Native artists. You can find sculptures, paintings, and carvings that capture the beauty of Alaska.

Local Culture and Customs of Tok

The local culture in Tok is heavily influenced by the Native Alaskan culture. The Athabascan people have lived in the surrounding areas for centuries and played a major role in shaping the town’s heritage. Visitors are expected to respect these cultural traditions by not disturbing archaeological sites or artifacts of the Native people.

Best Time to Visit Tok

The best time to visit Tok is during the summer months (June to August). The weather is milder, and outdoor activities are more accessible. However, if you want to see the Northern Lights, plan your visit between September and April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tok

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s wildlife and history.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Disturb any archaeological sites or Native artifacts.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tok

Tok’s crime rate is very low, making it a relatively safe place to visit. However, visitors should be aware of the local wildlife and take appropriate precautions when hiking or camping in the area.

Health in Tok

Visitors should be aware that medical facilities in the area are limited. It is advisable to carry prescription medication and a first aid kit.

Getting to Tok: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tok

  • Tok Airport: This airport is located within the town limits and offers regional flights to nearby destinations.

Bus Stations Near Tok

  • Alaska Coach Tours: This bus company operates daily routes between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with stops in Tok along the way.

Other Options

  • Driving: Tok is situated on Alaska’s Richardson Highway, making it accessible by road. Visitors can rent a car or motorhome to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Tok

The best way to get around in Tok is by car or bike, as public transportation is limited. Visitors can rent a car or bike from the local rental companies.

Where to Go Next from Tok: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fairbanks: Located 208 miles from Tok, Fairbanks is a great destination for those interested in learning more about Alaska’s history and culture.

  • Chena Hot Springs: Located about two hours from Tok, this natural hot spring is a great place to relax and unwind after days of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Tok is a unique destination with a mix of historical attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures. The town is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Alaska and offers the perfect base for exploring the state’s vast wilderness. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their perfect trip to Tok and make the most out of their visit.