Great American Railroad Journeys (2016)

Episode Overview

Michael Portillo sets off on an exhilarating second rail adventure through Alaska and into Canada aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway. After flying in by seaplane from the railway-free Juneau, he first visits Dyea and the Chilkoot Trail, once traversed by intrepid gold seekers a century ago, including the renowned author Jack London, who vividly portrayed the gold rush through his tales of sled dogs. At a sled dog training camp, a musher shares how huskies played a crucial role in Alaska’s development and explains their ongoing significance in both work and racing. As he boards the historic 52-mile railway, built in 1898 and ascending 2,600 feet to Lake Bennett, Michael anticipates stunning views steeped in history. There, he meets an Indigenous guide who enlightens him about the First Nations' contributions during the gold rush.