Hope
First Gold Rush
State: Alaska
County: Kenai Peninsula Borough
Founded: 1896
Abandoned: Semi-ghost
Peak Population: 3,000
Hope was Alaska's first gold rush town, predating the Klondike. The 1896 gold rush brought 3,000 prospectors. Today, about 200 residents remain. The tiny town offers hiking and gold panning.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: Half day
Quick Facts
- First AK gold rush
- 1896 boom
- Gold panning today
Location
Address: Hope, AK
Coordinates: 60.9167, -149.6333