Walking the Yukon: A solo trek through the Land of Beyond

Leaving Skagway, Alaska, in June 1990, Chris Townsend followed the footsteps of the Klondike goldrushers over Chilkoot Pass to Whitehorse, then north across the Yukon's rugged mountains, wild rivers, and muskeg swamps. 83 days later he crossed the Arctic Circle, struggling to the end of his route through two feet of snow. A travel writer in the best 19th-century tradition, Townsend is little given to introspection. His focus is outward, on history, geology, and wildlife, all of which the Yukon offers in abundance. Everywhere he finds reminders of the gaunt men with gold in their eyes and frost-bitten souls chronicled by Robert Service almost a century ago. Townsend keeps meeting fascinating characters, and something about him encourages them to share their stories. Also featured in the book are appendices on gear, provisions, routes, and clothing.