Get Involved with
Klondike Gold Rush
National Historical Park in Seattle!
Did you know that Seattle was the “jumping off point” for the Klondike Gold Rush? If you're interested in Seattle history, we need your help!
After years of struggling through tough economic times, Americans were intrigued by the possibility of gold. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park offers visitors a chance to step back in time and journey to the gold fields as thousands did in 1897. Touchscreen computers allow you to experience the gold rush through the journals and personal accounts of actual Klondike prospectors.
Interactive exhibits highlight Seattle's role in this international event. As a result of the Gold Rush, Seattle's population swelled from 40,000 in 1890 to 240,000 by 1910. Seattle also became the terminus for transcontinental rail service, and a major port for both Alaskan and Asian bound ships.
Current Volunteer Opportunities
Visitor Center Assistant
Recreation Information Assistant
Trails and Rails Guide
Bookstore Assistant
Visitor Center Assistant
Do you enjoy sharing your knowledge of history with others? Volunteers at the Visitor Center will provide visitors with an orientation to the park, in-depth information about Klondike Gold Rush history or Seattle history, and local area information. They may be assigned to special projects if their interests and capabilities coincide with the needs of the park.
This position is uniformed, and uniforms are provided.
Skills and Qualifications:
Customer service experience and/or “people skills” are highly desirable.
Computer skills are highly desirable.
Retail experience is helpful, though not necessary.
An interest in local history is desirable.
Recreation Information Assistant
Are you a hiker or backpacker who enjoys informing others of current backcountry conditions? Located inside REI's flagship store in downtown Seattle, the Outdoor Recreation Information Center is a unique partnership between the National Park Service, US Forest Service, and Washington State Parks. Staff & volunteers at ORIC provide information and suggestions for a wide range of recreational pursuits.
Skills and Qualifications:
Prospective volunteers for this program should possess a working knowledge of the recreational opportunities in the National Parks and Forests of Washington State. This position is uniformed, and uniforms are provided.
Trails and Rails Guide
Would you enjoy presenting a rolling history and geography commentary onboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder or Coast Starlight routes? Volunteers in this program are assigned to Amtrak’s Empire Builder or Coast Starlight routes. Utilizing script outlines and portable public address system, as well as the train’s public address system, Trails & Rails guides provide information on natural and cultural history as seen from the trains.
Skills and Qualifications:
Prospective guides must meet certain physical standards regarding vision, hearing, speaking, and general physical fitness. Additionally, candidates must be able to turn a script or outline into their own words for presentation to the public. This position is uniformed, and uniforms are provided.
Bookstore Assistant
We are seeking volunteers to help us manage our bookstore and gift shop. Responsibilities include assisting customers, answering questions, running the cash register, and restocking merchandise. We ask for a minimum commitment of 4 hours a week, for at least three months. Scheduling is flexible and can be decided based on your availability.
Skills and Qualifications:
Customer service experience and/or “people skills” are highly desirable.
Computer skills are highly desirable.
Retail experience is helpful, though not necessary.
An interest in local history is desirable.
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