Long before American settlers arrived in search of gold, Dawson City was an important harvest area for the First Nations Peoples, with a fishing camp at the meeting point of the Klondike and Yukon Rivers. During the Klondike gold rush, the peaceful camp transformed into a bustling town of over 40,000 people within just three years, only to see its population quickly dwindle as prospectors moved on. Today, the city keeps its historic and slightly rebellious charm, with dirt streets, old boardwalks, and timeless wooden buildings that make it feel like you’ve stepped back into the 1890s.
Many artists have made Dawson City their home, inspired by its remoteness and the breathtaking Yukon scenery. Despite its small size, the city is alive with quirky cultural energy.