Treat the dad in your life to a one-of-a-kind experience at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, hosted only during summer months. However, the name is a bit of a misnomer. The salmon is actually roasted over alder wood flames. Located on the outskirts of town, it’s part bake, part tour and gives you a unique experience in the heart of a rainforest. This bake has been operating for over 30 years, and in the two-hour experience, it pays homage to the state’s gold rush history.

Stroll to the Salmon Creek waterfall, or explore the shaft of the old Wagner Mine. It’s where Joe Juneau found gold in 1880 and gave the town its namesake! You can pan for some of your own gold before eating and drinking like a local Cheechako. The wild-caught salmon is an all-you-can-eat buffet paired with baked Cheechako chicken, baked beans, fresh salads, corn bread, Gold Rush potatoes and wild rice pilaf. Lemonade, coffee and tea are bottomless, or upgrade to beer and wine to explore some local beverages.

Sweet Treats

To cap it all off, you’ll get blueberry cake and the chance to roast your own s’mores over the campfire. Local musicians perform folk songs as you gather your gold panning kits at the trading post. It’s optional to add on a Historic Gold Panning Adventure for a more serious search for riches or a Whale Watching Adventure for a big finale.

The price is $53.50 for adults, and you’re encouraged to dress warm, comfortably and suitable for potential rain no matter what the weather report. It’s a rainforest, after all! Experience what life was like for early settlers and indigenous Alaskans at this once-in-a-lifetime event.