White River Gold Mine | Alaska

WHITE RIVER GOLD MINE

Yakutat, Alaska

$150,000,000

11,320± Acres

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The White River Basin Area Claim Group (WRCG), located near Cape Yakataga in South Central Alaska, comprises 154 mining claims across approximately 11,320± acres. The region is centered around the White River, a seven-mile glacial stream believed to be the source of significant gold reserves. Historically, over 15,000 ounces of placer gold were mined in the early 1900s, primarily from rich beach and bench gravels. However, much of the auriferous material remains unmined, with promising initial sampling and geological studies confirming the presence of gold-bearing alluvial and uplifted beach deposits.

The area’s complex geology—characterized by Tertiary sedimentary rocks over older igneous formations, extensive glacial deposition, and tectonic uplift—has created an ideal environment for placer gold accumulation. Stream gradients ranging from 33 to 50 feet per mile, as well as the replenishing ruby sands of the current beach (one of the most energetic in the world), point to the area’s high potential. Gold-bearing sediments have been identified at depths beyond standard excavating capabilities, suggesting the possibility of deeper reserves.

Access to the WRCG is limited to bush planes, barges, and small boats, with Yakutat Airport serving as the main regional hub. Satellite communication is mandatory due to the absence of cellular service, though a new tower is planned. Despite logistical hurdles, the region offers a long operating season (9–10 months annually) and remains largely untouched. Economic projections indicate that modern mechanized mining, including large suction dredges, could make development highly profitable. Further sampling and analysis are required to define the full extent of the placer gold deposits and determine the feasibility of large-scale operations. WRCG represents a compelling opportunity for mineral exploration and investment.

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS

• Located in the Cape Yakataga area of southeast Alaska, approximately 90 miles west of Yakutat

• Central feature: White River, a seven-mile glacial stream flowing from the White River Glacier, likely the load source for gold reserves

• The claim group covers 154 mining claims totaling approximately 11,320± acres

• White River follows a classic alluvial valley, favorable for placer gold deposition

• Stream gradients of 33–50 feet per mile suggest strong potential for gold accumulation

• The White River valley was heavily shaped by glacial activity and tectonic uplift

• Early mining focused on rich beach and bench gravels, using rockers, long-toms, and hydraulic methods

• Historic mining left large volumes of untouched auriferous gravels, beaches, and offshore resources

• Modern mechanized mining could unlock potentially billions in gold resources at current market prices

• The beaches, upland areas, and riverine system are largely virgin ground

• The current beach is the third most energetic beach in the world, and its ruby sands appear to replenish after large storms

• There are three beaches within the claims: one current beach and two ancient beaches

• The area is mineable 9–10 months out of the year

• Best operational season is late May through September

• Access is limited—via bush plane, barge, landing craft, offshore boat, or small charter flights

• Yakutat Airport (PAYA) is the regional hub, with daily commercial flights from Juneau, Anchorage, and Cordova (weather permitting)

• A second private landing strip with a cabin is located northeast of the White River near the glacier

• The closest maintained airstrip is a relic from a Cold War-era communication site

• Helicopters are used for precision deliveries of personnel and equipment

• Barges or landing craft can reach the coastline during calm Gulf of Alaska conditions; heavy equipment is landed on the beach

• Satellite communication is mandatory; no cell service is available in the area

• North American Tower plans to construct a cell tower at the FAA airport facility northwest of the White River

OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Access is limited - bush plane, barge, landing craft, offshore boat, or small charter flights

• Elevation - Top: 1,200± ft, Bottom: sea level

• Latitude and Longitude: 60.0482, -142.2111

• Overburden: 2’ - 12’

• Mindat Report: https://www.mindat.org/loc-203011.html

https://www.mindat.org/loc-202905.html

https://www.mindat.org/loc-203012.html

• NI 43-101: Yes

• Gold Assay: - .923

Estimated Operational Costs

• Per estimated 100/cubic yards suction dredge - $800-$1200

AU/ounce

• Per estimated 100/cubic yards wash plant - $1000 - $1400

AU/ounce

Historical Production

Over 15,000 ounces of placer gold have been historically produced, mostly before World War II, with very limited activity since. The riverbed, fan delta, deeper beach, and offshore areas were not mined historically, leaving them largely untapped. Later exploration in the 1980s and 1990s confirmed the presence of valuable mineral resources, including industrial garnet. The claims are now under State of Alaska jurisdiction, with all legal requirements in order, and present a substantial opportunity for modern, mechanized mining methods.

Mining Methodologies

Placer mining is a method of extracting valuable minerals from alluvial deposits, which are accumulations of sand, gravel, and other sediments found in riverbeds, streambeds, and floodplains. These minerals are typically denser than the surrounding material, allowing them to settle at the bottom over time. Gold, platinum, tin, and gemstones are commonly extracted using this method.

Crew Accommodations

Bringing in ATCO units or other portable living accommodations by barge may be the most cost-effective approach.

https://www.mindat.org/loc-203011.html www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com

https://www.mindat.org/loc-202905.html

https://www.mindat.org/loc-203012.html

www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com

DISCLOSURES & DISCLAIMERS

The information provided by Fay Ranches, including but not limited to property descriptions, maps, reports, studies, geotech, and any other materials, is offered solely for the prospective buyer’s convenience. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy or reliability of the information provided, it is up to the prospective buyer to confirm.

Prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own independent due diligence, including but not limited to in-person site inspection, verification of property boundaries, assessment of mineral rights, environmental considerations, permitting requirements, and any other factors material to their purchase decision. The property is sold as is with no guarantees, warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to the existence, presence, quality, or extractable mineral resource.

By submitting an offer, the buyer acknowledges they have relied solely on their own investigations, observations, and due diligence and NOT on any information, representations, or warranties provided by Fay Ranches or the seller.

Equipment not included in sale

CLIMATE

Yakutat, Alaska, experiences a cool maritime climate, heavily influenced by the Gulf of Alaska. Summers are mild and damp, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s to low 60s°F, while winters are cold and snowy but relatively moderate compared to interior Alaska, with temperatures often staying above 20°F.

Climate charts courtesy of https://www.city-data.com/city/Yakutat-Alaska.html

MINERAL RIGHTS

All mineral rights appurtenant to the property and owned by the seller will be conveyed to the buyer by deed at closing and closed through Alyeska Title. It is suggested that the buyer conduct an independent mineral search with a title company or through an attorney.

WATER RIGHTS

The property is subject to state-registered water use rights under Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

LOCATION

The White River Gold Mine is situated along the Gulf of Alaska shoreline, between Katalla and Yakutat. The claims stretch across roughly 20 miles of coastline. The White River itself flows from Russell Glacier into the Gulf of Alaska, originating from the glaciers of the Icefield Ranges in the Wrangell–St. Elias Mountains, about 150 miles northeast of Yakutat.

GETTING THERE

Charter a Helicopter to get on the site directly or charter a fixed wing to use Yakataga Airfield West of the White River about 6 miles. The beach is soft and sandy, easy to use a landing craft to access from the water.

AIRPORT SERVICES

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and Juneau International Airport both serve as hubs for a variety of commercial airlines.

LOGISTICS

Getting people and equipment to the White River in the Gulf of Alaska near Yakutat involves navigating one of the more remote and rugged regions in North America. Access depends heavily on season, weather, purpose (e.g., scientific, recreational, industrial), and the nature of the equipment. Here’s a breakdown of logistical options:

Air Access

To Yakutat:

• Yakutat Airport (PAYA) is the main hub for the region

• Regular flights are available via Alaska Airlines from Juneau, Anchorage, or Cordova (weather-dependent)

• Small charters also fly in from other Alaskan towns

From Yakutat to White River Vicinity:

• Bush planes or floatplanes can land on small beaches or gravel bars, depending on aircraft type

• Helicopters are used for precision drop-offs of personnel and scientific or drilling gear (often used by USGS and researchers)

• Weather is often a limiting factor—fog, rain, and high winds are common

Sea Access

Via Gulf of Alaska:

• Barges or small landing craft can approach the coastline near the White River mouth during calm weather. The beach is sandy and soft

• Landing must be done carefully—coastal surf, silty outflows, and shallow gradients can pose hazards

• Seasonal sea ice and driftwood debris from rivers may also obstruct landing

Offloading:

• Landing craft with a ramp are most common, amphibious boats or inflatable rafts (Zodiacs) can also be used to ferry gear and personnel ashore

• Heavy equipment often requires a beach landing with tracked vehicles or modular floating docks from larger marine landing craft

Overland

Access (Very Limited)

• There are no roads to the White River coast from Yakutat

• Access inland from the coast is possible only via:

• ATVs or snowmobiles during winter on ice or firm ground

• Pack animals (rare, due to terrain and vegetation)

• Hiking or backpacking, which can be treacherous in glacial or boggy terrain

• Some exploratory operations use tracked vehicles or airboats upriver from accessible deltas

Field Operations & Camps

• Remote fieldwork often involves:

• Pre-staged fuel and food caches (delivered by air or sea)

HISTORY

The region of Yakutat and Icy Bay, located in southeastern Alaska along the Gulf of Alaska, holds a rich and multifaceted history shaped by Indigenous heritage, European exploration, American expansion—and the often-overlooked story of mineral exploration and potential mining. For thousands of years, Yakutat has been home to the Tlingit people. The name “Yakutat,” meaning “the place where canoes rest” in the Tlingit language, reflects the deep cultural and environmental ties of the community to the land and sea. Abundant marine and forest resources long sustained a thriving Indigenous society grounded in fishing, hunting, and complex social structures.

European contact in the late 18th century introduced a new era, as Russian and Spanish explorers arrived, largely motivated by the fur trade. In the 1790s, the RussianAmerican Company established a settlement known as New Russia in Yakutat, which was ultimately destroyed by the Tlingit in 1805 in a

powerful act of resistance to colonial encroachment. Following the 1867 U.S. purchase of Alaska, American settlers brought fishing operations, canneries, and a new wave of economic activity.

The commercial fishing industry, particularly for salmon and halibut, became—and remains—a cornerstone of Yakutat’s economy.

Alongside fishing and logging, the mineral wealth of the region has also drawn interest over time. Yakutat and Icy Bay are geologically dynamic areas, rich in mineral potential. The glacial movements that shaped Icy Bay over centuries exposed underlying geological formations containing copper, gold, and other mineral resources. Early- to mid-20th-century prospectors and geologists explored parts of the region for copper veins, molybdenum, zinc, and gold deposits. The mountainous terrain and glacial valleys hinted at valuable subterranean resources, sparking periodic interest in mineral extraction.

In particular, the Icy Bay region has become a focal point not only for scientific research into climate change and glacial retreat, but also for its geological richness. While development has remained minimal, the presence of commercially significant minerals underscores the potential.

$150,000,000 Cash

Conventional Financing

This is an exclusive co-listing with Fay Ranches and Real Broker of Alaska. Please contact Troy Dana at (360) 402-5500 | tdana@fayranches.com or Yvan Corbin at (907) 301-0875 | Yvan@alaskatopshelfrealty.com to schedule a showing. An agent from Fay Ranches or Real Broker Alaska must be present at all showings unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties, fly fishing properties, and sporting ranches that we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com.

DATA ROOM

The Data Room will provide additional information such as geology, gold reserves, mining plans, and additional maps. To request access to the Data Room, please email tdana@fayranches.com or yvan@alaskatopshelfrealty.com.

Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.

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